Movie Synopsis
King Richard, the movie, tells the story of Venus and Serena Williams’ father, Richard Williams, as he grooms and develops his daughters into tennis icons. Based on the true story of Serena and Venus Williams' childhood, this impactful movie explores Richard's experience with fatherhood and his unconventional efforts to secure his daughters' futures as champions against the odds.
Discussion Questions
1 . What are some specific examples and tools that King Richard used to help build up Venus and Serena’s champion mindset?
2. The power of self-talk was apparent throughout the movie as players would often talk to themselves after mistakes during the tennis matches. What are some examples of positive self-talk that you can use to help move past mistakes and build yourself up?
3. What were some of the apparent challenges that King Richard and his daughters faced during their journey to reach the vision of becoming tennis champions? Do you feel these same challenges are apparent today?
4. Why was it significant for Venus and Serena, two young Black girls from Compton, CA, to never give up their pursuit of becoming tennis champions?
5.Why do you think Venus and Serena did not burn out while other athletes their age did?
6. What are some appropriate reasons for King Richard to overprotect his daughters? Why was King Richard so driven for them to succeed?
What Parents Need To Know
Parents need to know that King Richard is a moving, entertaining sports biopic about Richard Williams (Will Smith), the father of tennis legends Venus and Serena Williams. Dialogue includes swearing ("s--t," "hell," and "ass"), as well as slurs like "nigga." There are also scenes of gang violence and racial violence, and a minor character is shot and killed on-screen. Brands such as Nike, Puma, Reebok, and Fila are mentioned. With themes of perseverance, courage, gratitude, and humility, the film successfully offers a positive representation of a Black family and focuses on Richard's attempts to be a better father than the one he had growing up.
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Our partner, Positive Coaching Alliance, provides a collection of movie discussion guides, which aim to help you make the most out of movie viewing with your team or child. Movies provide many of "teachable moments" parents can share with their young athletes helping them be successful, contributing members of society.
