To Be King

Steve Rahaman is back with yet another riveting take on the human condition in his latest film To Be King. Rahaman delivers a script well executed by his actors, which portrays the lengths a father will take to lead an exemplary life for his child, defying all odds and breaking the mold of a man trapped in the "street" life.

This story is much more involving than his previous films as it brings together the values of family loyalty, redemption and determination. Nigel Harvey delivers a heartfelt performance as up and coming boxer Tyrone King. His character faces obstacles both in and out of the ring and is pushed to the limits as he struggles to escape the shadows of his father's legacy in order to create his own path.

Miriam Morales gives a breakthrough performance in her first full length film capturing the audience as Sharon Stills, the mother of King's daughter. Not only is she believable but her performance is also flawless, authentic and is worthy of praise.

Kamel Goffin, who plays Wesley King, Tyrone's younger brother, gives a genuine portrait of a young man struggling to break free of the life of crime he is subjected to. Viewers keep a look out, Goffin's capacity as an actor is sure to transform him from supporting to leading actor.

Frank Merlino and Tommy Clohessy, who have worked both together and with Rahaman in the past, unite once again to play the roles of King's trainer and promoter. This film pushes Merlino's abilities as an actor and gives him a chance to stand in the spotlight. His role as Uncle Frank provides a platform for Merlino to showcase his talents and in doing so, Merlino shines.

Clohessy, who is a natural, steals each of his scenes as the corrupt promoter Jimmy O'Reilly and as expected performed brilliantly.

Clarissa Martinez, the social service worker, played by Rosie Moss and Nya Harvey, who is Harvey's real life daughter and plays the role of King's daughter in the movie, adds to the dimension of the film and King's character as the audience sees a softer, loving side of the boxer. Both Moss and the young Harvey performed with grace and sincerity.

To Be King is more than just a boxing film. It is a film about loyalty, love and liberation. Rahaman manages to bring the story to life with the use of powerful, gripping dialog and a plot that is conducive to his works. His growth as a director is evident with each new film and is an indicator of what is to be expected of him as a director in this industry. The story flows well throughout the film and leaves audiences with a sense of triumph and hope. This is definitely one of, if not Rahaman's best works thus far.

Written By Safia Sattaur Writer/ Journalist

I've scrapped several drafts of this review. More than several! I've walked away, thought about what to write, wrote it down, pressed "delete (wash, rinse, repeat). It took a few days, but I have finally managed to admit to myself that there is really nothing I could write to match the level of dedication I sensed as I watched "To Be King" on July 7.

This is something, after all, that does not need to be over-thought. "To Be King" tells a familiar tale, to be sure, but told in a way in which you and I can relate. Tyrone King (played by Nigel Harvey) is not royalty, nor is he a celebrity or politician. He is not a particularly extraordinary guy, but he has an extraordinary desire to thrive, to make his own mark despite the shadows cast over him by the memories that precede him, or the obstacles that threaten to impede his journey; he has an extraordinary drive to seize and make the most of the opportunity before him, not just for his own benefit, but for those he cares for.

Much of how this tale plays out for Tyrone heavily depends upon the relationships he forges, both personal and professional. Women could either be an impediment or a source of meaningful support. People want to manipulation his skills, maybe for his benefit, maybe for their own. Family must be taken care of. Choices must be made, and sometimes choices cost dearly; sometimes, however, they pay the greatest rewards. We've all been there. Or will be someday. Tyrone takes us there, showing us the way with a performance that is at moments poignant, at times humorous, always demonstrating that optimism – even in the midst of gritty scenes of urban bleakness –, is not necessarily a path for fools.

Along for the ride are Sharon (Miriam Morales), Marcus (LoDeon) and Jimmy (Tom Clohessy) who test Tyrone's mettle, Clarissa (Rosie Moss) and Uncle Frank – whose name really should be Mr. Brooklyn! – (Frank Merlino) who help as best they can along the way, Wesley, the brother, who feels Tyrone's shadow hovering but wants to make his own choices anyway, and various sundry characters that keep Tyrone on his path. Each provide realistic and riveting performances, helping Tyrone unravel a story that effortlessly leaves its mark.

Every movie has at least one character that steals the show: that honor goes to Nya Harvey. (I am shamelessly biased, and was particularly pleased by performances from Pretty Boy Steve and the Referee). It is easy to see that "To Be King" is, indeed, a labor of love, with a cast and crew that put in more than a general effort to bring us a story that is thought-provoking and real. What is not so obvious is how easily a viewer can become engaged in the tale, but any one of us could be Tyrone, after all, and any one of us would want someone in our corner, cheering us on and encouraging us to win. Even less obvious is how Tyrone lingers past the credits, until you find yourself drinking a cup of coffee or reading a paper and you catch yourself thinking about him.

Go get your ticket.

I really liked this film a lot. I liked the characters, and the way they were balanced and believable human beings. No black hats and white hats here - well, maybe the one. But the lead is so down to earth and lacking righteousness - though his path be righteous - that he is endearing rather than superior. Even the villain has his moment of genuine and touching humanity. There is no axe to grind or agenda here; just a simple story, a sort of cross between Cindarella Man and Rocky, very well acted and directed. Kudos to Steve Rahaman, he pulls off an ambitious movie on a shoestring and keeps you with him all the way. If I had one reservation it would be that there are a few too many hugs in the film - not because I don't buy it, I do - but it leaves the audience out of the circle of warmth a bit, rather than pulling us in as it might better do if it were not quite so easy for the characters to embrace. A very effective scene for example, when King thanks his Ex and an awkward embrace happens between them - not literally, but in a manner soft and sad and really very moving. There are a lot of lovely moments here, all in all. Bravo all 'round!

I was honored to be a part of the first screening of "To Be King" on 7/7/11. As always Steve did an amazing job. To incorporate a little bit of everyday life with action, drama, love and suspense, takes real talent and this is what this movie was about. It was not all about boxing as you would expect it to be. It's about one man's struggle with life, decisions, temptations, and sacrifice. I really loved this movie because it was very touching and emotional and at the same time it made you laugh and kept you at the edge of your seat wondering, "omg!.." . "To Be King" is a great inspiration for anyone out there who are struggling, and it sends an amazing message…"Anything and everything is possible, just believe in yourself and give it your best shot!!"..

I saw the cast and crew movie screening this past weekend (06/04/11) and this movie is great! I did not read the initial script but I did work on bits and pieces of this film with Steve Rahaman. After seeing the final product, I was amazed by the quality of this film especially since it was done on a limited budget. Safia hit the nail on the head in her comment when she said "To Be King is more than just a boxing film". If you think this is your typical rags to riches movie, you're in for a surprise. SR manages to build the main characters so that you can feel the emotions they're going through and also creates a story that allows you to empathize with the character. Well timed comedy adds to this movie that already has drama and action. Job well done Mr. Rahaman.