Year
1973
Language
English spoken, no subtitles
Director
William Greaves
Duration
138 min
Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier faced each other in 1971 in a fight in which Ali hoped to regain the world title. William Greaves transformed it into an unforgettable documentary of the times.
The promise of a duel between two undefeated world champions propelled the hype surrounding the 'Fight of the Century' to unprecedented heights.
The first hour of The Fight is fully dedicated to the excitement and craziness in the lead-up to the battle. Greaves films passionate discussions among fans on the street, stands with his camera in the midst of money conversations among organizers, and follows both Ali and Frazier closely during promotions.
The fight itself – of which only the breaks have been shortened – covers the entire second half of this film. Without sports commentary, it feels as though you are present in Madison Square Garden. Ali’s iconic rope-a-dope tactic, Frazier’s devastating left hook; everything is meticulously captured, with only the sounds of solid punches and a frenzied crowd. Sports and world history is being made in fifteen grueling rounds.
Restored by the Criterion Collection, The New York Public Library, and The Film Foundation. Made possible by funding from the Hobson/Lucas Family Foundation.
Release date
4:00 PM - 6:28 PM
€ 11.50
Camera 4
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