The episode argues that Ali is a flawed but ambitious Michael Mann biopic that mostly succeeds as a portrait of Muhammad Ali’s defiance, charisma, political awakening, and cost of greatness. The hosts admire the opening stretch, the supporting performances, and the film’s willingness to dramatize Ali as a complicated person rather than a pure legend.
Based only on this episode’s transcriptTimes approximateSpeakers were clearly identifiedExplore the connections
very favorableMuhammad AliBill Simmons: Described as the most charismatic athlete ever, but also complicated, mean at times, and under constant pressure. About 8 min
favorableHoward CosellBill Simmons: Viewed as an important foil and a channel for the movie’s televised, culturally specific conversations. About 1:20
mixedDon KingBill Simmons: Seen as sleazy and dangerous, but Michael T. Williamson’s portrayal captures the energy well. About 32 min
mixedSonny ListonBill Simmons: Discussed as a bad man and a figure in one of the film’s great fights, though the lore around the fights is debated. About 56 min
