Although there was never much hope that The Greatest would ever be more than a superficial treatment of its subject's life story, Muhammad Ali himself predictably contrives to be a one-man show in the title role. And fortunately the fights of Cassius Clay/Ali need no script: they are their own commentary on a master's craft, ably accompanied by an uplifting and driving musical score from Michael Masser. In the dramatised scenes, the film is less successful, although such solid actors as Ben Johnson, Malachi Throne, Robert Duvall, James Earl Jones, Dina Merrill, Skip Homeier and Paul Winfield add authority to supporting roles. The film shows largely only what is well-known about Ali - and shows it well. But it leaves one longing for a deeper, more penetrating look. That, of course, could never happen with Ali in the leading role. The film is dedicated to its director, the popular and prolific Tom Gries - he also made Will Penny - who died from a heart attack shortly after its completion.

©ipc tx. Film content from TVTimes