In what may be the standout performance of a prolific and undeniably dynamic career, Will Smith‘s portrayal of Venus and Serena Williams‘ father Richard Williams in KING RICHARD may yet earn him an Oscar. He has dominated his field this year, taking home the top prize from the Golden Globes, Screen Actors Guild, BAFTAs, Critics Choice Awards and more. (And don’t forget, you can catch the Oscars on the Rio Theatre’s big screen on Sunday, March 27!)
Armed with a clear vision and a brazen 78-page plan, Richard Williams (Smith – never better) is determined to write his daughters, Venus and Serena, into history. Training on Compton, California’s neglected tennis courts–rain or shine–the girls are shaped by their father’s unyielding commitment and their mother’s balanced perspective and keen intuition, defying the seemingly insurmountable odds and prevailing expectations laid before them. Based on the true story that will inspire the world, KING RICHARD follows the uplifting journey of a family whose unwavering resolve and unconditional belief ultimately delivers two of the world’s greatest sports legends.
“… a career-defining performance from Will Smith.” (Chicago Reader)
“‘King Richard’ transcends sport biopic formulas with refreshingly nuanced storytelling — and a towering performance from Will Smith in the title role.” (Rotten Tomatoes)
“Featuring a towering performance from Will Smith in the title role, proving that a hero is not necessarily easy to root for.” (US Weekly)
“The Williams sisters’ saga is so improbably inspirational that watching their ascent, coupled with Smith’s crackerjack performance, had me grinning the entire time. It’s the most sheerly pleasurable movie I’ve seen so far this year.” (Filmweek / NPR)
“The movie’s brightest-burning idea, and it is sincerely moving, is that Richard, for his flaws, does what he does on behalf of the young Black women he’s raising. This rings true in real life and in fiction.” (Rolling Stone Magazine)
Sunday March 20
Doors 1:30 pm | Movie 2:00 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.
Advance tickets HERE
Wednesday, March 30 Final Screening
Doors 5:45 pm | Movie 6:15 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.
Advance tickets HERE
*Minors permitted. Must be 19+ w/ID for bar service. Rio Theatre Groupons and passes OK for any single film screening only. Please redeem at the box office.
*If you are looking to redeem your tickets to either a canceled Rio Theatre screening or a Rio Theatre gift certificate, please email <[email protected]> with info including your name, canceled receipt number, gift certificate info, what you are wanting to see and when, and we can make the switch for you in advance. Alternately, you can bring this information with you to the venue, and we will do our best to help you at the box office.
In accordance with the Province of British Columbia’s current PHO from the Ministry of Health, all eligible patrons must present their proof of vaccine status for entry. No exceptions.
KING RICHARD (Reinaldo Marcus Green, 2021 / 145 mins / PG) Richard Williams is determined to write his two daughters, Venus and Serena, into the history books. Training on tennis courts in Compton, Richard shapes the girls’ adamant commitment and intense intuition. Together, the Williams family defies the odds.