4/5 Stars

“In the Company of Kings” is a feature-length documentary that is well worth the cost of its rental price.

Growing up in the 1970s, boxing wasn’t just a sport—it was an integral part of American pop culture, entwined with television, comics, and films. Over the decades since the 1950s, boxing had transformed; it wasn’t merely about two competitors in a ring. Instead, it morphed into a spectacle of almost mythical proportions, where fighters weren’t just athletes—they were superheroes. One iconic example is the comic where Muhammad Ali, a real-world champion, famously battles Superman, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy for us kids of that era.

This superhero narrative was further fueled by the media frenzy surrounding Ali’s most legendary bouts—the “Rumble in the Jungle” against George Foreman in 1974 and the “Thrilla in Manila” against Joe Frazier in 1975. The portrayal of these fights, whether in comics or live broadcasts, elevated boxers to demigod status. Then came the Rocky movies in the late ’70s, rocketing boxing to new heights in U.S. pop culture.

Fast forward nearly 50 years. On April 30, 2024, a new chapter in boxing storytelling was introduced with the release of ‘In the Company of Kings,’ a documentary that delves into the distinctive look of Philadelphia’s boxing scene. This film, now available on Amazon and Apple TV, offers a raw and unvarnished look at the tales of struggle, resilience, and triumph that have emerged from the city’s harsh urban landscape.

Philadelphia, a city revered and notorious for its boxing culture, has not only nurtured some of the world’s most formidable champions but has also been shaped by the brutal realities of its streets. “In the Company of Kings” captures this juxtaposition brilliantly, reflecting on the city’s deep and sometimes painful connection with boxing. The opening reflections of Robert Douglas, a biracial Liverpool native who faced his battles with racism, set a personal and introspective tone for the documentary. His journey to North Philadelphia in 1988 marked the beginning of his deep connection with the city’s boxing community, a bond that later drew director Steve Read into the fold.

The film doesn’t shy away from the gritty realities of the Philly boxing scene. From legendary figures like Joe Frazier to newer talents fighting for recognition, boxing is portrayed as more than a sport—it’s a lifeline, a fight for survival. Through candid interviews and raw footage, the documentary brings to light stories of personal hardship and triumph. Notable among them is Bernard Hopkins, ‘The Executioner,’ whose journey from the tough streets to world championships encapsulates the transformative power of boxing. His narrative is a poignant testament to the sport’s role in providing a second chance at life.

Director Steve Read’s cinematography is intimate and evocative, capturing the dingy gyms and urban landscape from the perspective of those who spar at these gyms. The film’s narrative might meander at times, touching on figures like Don King and jumping from one story to another. However, this seemingly chaotic structure adds an authentic, unscripted quality to the documentary, reflecting the unpredictable and tumultuous nature of the sport itself.

The soundtrack of “In the Company of Kings,” especially the poignant song “It’s the Peace that Deafens” by Ola Onabulé, beautifully complements the film’s emotional and thematic depth. This track played over the closing credits, serves as a reflective piece that ties together the individual stories of struggle and resilience showcased throughout the documentary.

“In the Company of Kings” is essential viewing for boxing fans and anyone interested in the enduring human spirit and the impact of sports on personal and community identity. It reminds us that while providing entertainment, boxing is a crucial pathway out of adversity and a platform for personal growth. This documentary, available for rental on digital platforms, offers a unique glimpse into the soul of American boxing and the hearts of those who live and breathe it.