It seems a bit ridiculous to write about this movie that is so awesome, so famous and so well covered by better people than me. But its even worse to leave it out of the list. This is Leon Gast's documentary on the "Rumble in the Jungle" heavyweight title fight between Muhamad Ali and George Forman in Zaire in 1974. The documentary came out 10 years after the fight but is filled with footage from the time of training camps, casual moments and interviews. It is unique but both awe inspiring and tragic, knowing Ali's subsequent destiny. This photo above on its own carries how profound a character he is, and this documentary is by far the best expression of it. George Forman's journey since from silent, mummy-like brick wall to giggling grill salesman is something that shouldn't be overlooked as well. Though some of his fashion choices in this film show he had a sense of humour even then.
Brilliantly entertaining with copius focus on the fight itself with Ali's rope-a-dope and eventual victory (spoiler alert). The talking heads are as good as in any documentary, Norman Mailer, "I think Ali was scared", Spike Lee, George Plimpton etc etc. And enough political insight to discuss the hosts of the fight, the dictatorship in power in Zaire, and the Vietnam War following which Ali had his belt removed.
I don't have much more to say except its a must see for anyone interested in boxing, documentaries, Ali or just life in general. AND its available on youtube.
9 / 10
