What's My Name: Muhammad Ali (HBO)

About What's My Name - Muhammad Ali (HBO)

"What's My Name: Muhammad Ali" is an HBO television series released in 2019 that presents an intimate look into the life of legendary sports icon, Muhammad Ali. Using exclusive, unprecedented access to Ali's personal archive of voice recordings, this two-part documentary paints a vivid picture of a man who was a beacon of hope to people around the world. The series sheds light on his groundbreaking feats not only in the boxing ring but also his notable influence as a social activist.

Making / Production

The TV Series was directed by Antoine Fuqua and produced by Maverick Carter and LeBron James. Fuqua, familiar for directing films like "Training Day", utilized a wealth of archival footage, delivering a rich tapestry of Ali's incredible journey from his early days to his rise as a global sports icon.

Actors

• LeBron James: Not only a producer but he also features in the series, articulating Ali's influence on his own life.
• Dee Muhammad Ali: As Muhammad Ali's daughter, Dee provides her personal insights into the character and ideology of her father.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The title of the series 'What's My Name' comes from a particular moment in a fight with Ernie Terrell, where Ali repeatedly asked the question, "What's my name?" since Terrell had been calling him by his old name, Cassius Clay.
• The series is told entirely through Ali’s own recordings and without any talking-head interviews, making it quite unique in its approach.

Awards

While a direct award for the series hasn't been achieved, the life of Muhammad Ali it portrays has won global hearts and recognition, enhancing the legacy of this outstanding athlete.

Quotes

• "I am the greatest! I said that even before I knew I was" - Muhammad Ali
• "Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee" - Muhammad Ali

Music, Soundtrack

• Score by Marcelo Zarvos, known for his works in The Affair and Ray Donovan, adds an extra layer of emotion to the series.