To Be King (2011) User Reviews

To Be King Movie Review

[snrs0113 · 7/10 · 27 May 2011]

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 Just Can't Wait To Be King

[kilawank · 8/10 · 28 June 2011]

To Be King Review Written By: Kamelia Kilawan Writer/Journalist

From the founder of Falling Leaves Film and director of the 2009 award winning film Blood Line, independent movie director Steve Rahaman brings To Be King a film on the strength of family, the intensity of boxing, the horror of crime, the sweetness of love, and the beauty of renewal.

To Be King channels an underlying theme of not being able to live up to one's own father. Tyrone, the film's lead, constantly faces both positive and negative objections from his family saying, "You're nothing like your father." Having to face the challenge of living up to his father, a boxing champion, Tyrone turns to an old man played by Frank Merlino, to act as his trainer.

With The Karate Kid references and the old trainer's wise character, the boxing scenes become all the more emotionally-charged. Rahaman does a good job at making the boxing scenes not only believable but intense. Each fight scene brings strong sound effects coupled with a heart-pounding reaction.

The diverse cast of actors and actresses give way to the movie's subtle message that despite the darkness of your skin tone, you can still overcome hurdles.

However the movie also portrays the sadness when one fights against their own kind. To Be King depicts a boxing scene where Tyrone is faced with fighting his fellow African-American opponent played by Roosevelt Norris. The white boxing promoter jeers on telling Tyrone to "Finish Him!" and Tyrone is faced with choosing boxing glory or saving brotherhood.

The movie also suggests the use of racial profiling by police in the scene where two street cops are investigating a robbery and they insist on asking the witness to identify the robber as black.

Steve Rahaman uses biblical references to develop Tyrone's lines. Rahaman makes an effort to show the religious aspects of the main character as he mentioned that regardless of race, class, or faith, his goal was to show that "He's not just a robber. He's a human being that also needs to pray."

The film strives to communicate with reality, especially to members of Brooklyn and Queens New York boroughs with numerous visuals of an entering J train into 104 Street and scenes from Rockaway Boulevard featuring Trade Fair. The boxing ring used to shoot most of the fighting scenes is also located at the border of Brooklyn and Queens.

The film's plot, screenplay, special effects, music and spontaneously original performances show the true depth and technique of the movie.

To Be King is not only a taste of boxing; it satisfies the romantic and comedic aspects necessary for a well-rounded film. We watch Tyrone struggle with serious issues such as crime and fighting while he also crushes over his social worker and tries to overcome his own butterflies. Tyrone is such a real, but dynamic character who we root for from the beginning to the end.

To Be King is a movie that should be on the radar of any one interested in a blend of crime, drama, action,and inspiration. To Be King is a movie that tells a story of a man who is lost but desperately trying to pick up the pieces and make his mark on the world. The film shows us what it really means to pick up where you left off, how hard it is to change your life around, but how rewarding it could be to make the right decisions. To Be King is in simplest terms, a movie that shows what it really means… to be a King.

Movie Review Sunday review excerpt: To Be King

[skin70 · 8/10 · 22 June 2011]

"To Be King" is a highly entertaining drama that shows growth and maturity in Steve Rahaman as a budding indie filmmaker. After seeing what he can accomplish, if he keeps making films like this, I feel his career can go nowhere but up. I would say that it's an urban "Rocky" (as there are similarities in theme), but it's a completely different film. Hell, there's really not much boxing in it at all; it's all about the story, the people, and what happens when life gets tough. Steve showed that he can get the best out of actors, shots, and dialog when he puts his mind to it. About half the cast from "Blood Line" is back and, instead of it feeling like they were cast for roles, it feels as if the roles were created with them in mind… and it works so well. The main cast (Harvey, Merlino, Moss, LoDeon, Morales, Clohessy, and Goffin) handle their roles with a professional quality rarely seen in indie projects such as this. The story flows organically, with realistic dialog and situations, and the theme is strong enough to make its point without becoming too weighted. I have to say that I was very much entertained by "To Be King". I'm not saying it's a perfect movie; there are few films outside of Kubrick's library that are perfect to this reviewer. The major flaw I had with it is the score. While an excellent score on its own (much better than any score previously used by Rahaman), it still doesn't feel right at certain moments. I wouldn't say that it sours the movie at all, but that at points it becomes overwhelming when subtlety would suffice. My other nitpicks are purely minor faults that I just "would've done differently" and wouldn't be noticeable unless pointed out (an edit here, a shot there… purely inconsequential stuff). For an indie drama, "To Be King" has more potential to get Rahaman noticed than anything he's done prior. I would actually recommend this if it was playing at a local indie house as an example of what can be done when a filmmaker puts heart and soul into a project. Well done, Mr. Rahaman… now don't let it go to your head. From: http://moviereviewsunday.typepad.com

Great Movie

[joanne050291 · 10/10 · 26 January 2012]

I really enjoyed this movie. I thought it was going to be more for men since it was relating to boxing, however, it was so much more than that.

It was uplifting, inspirational, exciting and touched on the fact that when your back is against the wall and you have no where to run to that change is possible. Nigel Harvey was terrific as well as Frank Merlino and Rosie Moss.

I have the pleasure of knowing Steve Rahaman. He has worked extremely hard to get to this point in his career and it reflects in his work. He truly loves directing and acting he will continue to succeed. I wish you continued success and know you will go far.

A Must See

[kcdivine7 · 10/10 · 4 January 2012]

I attended a private viewing of "To Be King" with my son, an inspiring professional boxer, we were thoroughly entertained at the content of this film, a true urban tale of a fighters plight and will to succeed despite the obstacles placed before him, on his road to success. The acting was excellent and all of the characters brought color to the film and the lead actors life. The lead character Nigel Harvey had me truly convinced that he was a professional pugilist or at least a professional trainer at the Starret City Boxing Club, I especially commend Nigel's work as for he struggled with the untimely lost of his beloved mother during the filming. The spirit of Jimmy O' was very present as well. 5 STARS

Very emotional, Very touching, MUST WATCH!

[jlp-soul · 10/10 · 17 September 2018]

From start to finish, this is a movie that grabs your attention and keeps you emotionally involved with the characters. The story telling was great and the acting were very convincing. I've seen this movie a few times already. One of the few independent films out there that had me coming back to watch again. Highly recommended.

Not your typical boxing movie

[itz_dynamis · 8/10 · 7 June 2011]

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.

Powerful Film!

[Jasonanthonytorres · 10/10 · 27 July 2015]

I truly loved this film Tyrone's hardship of not being able to provide, and the will to do better, not just for himself, but for his daughter, truly touched me. There were a lot of twists, in this film, some just right out crazy, and some that were in the form of blessings, that really reeled me in. There are blessings, and a bigger picture. This film is an inspiration. I recommend it for all to see! You have to see this film. I see where SouthPaw, got its inspiration. Go on Vimeo right now. The film can be rented, or you can buy it. I bought it, because it's a family film, and you can see it anytime. Each character in this film was powerful, in who they are. From the daughter, who was absolutely adorable, to Coach Frank, who had some good advise for a beginner, wanting to box.

The Life on the road-TO BE KING!!

[skiluv1 · 10/10 · 12 August 2011]

Steve Rahaman, movie director has done it again this time it seems he has out done himself. To BE King has to be one of the greatest movies to come out of the Falling Leaves camp. This heartfelt drama dances to life on the screen right before your eyes. You can see the growth of Rahaman and his cast and crew during the entire movie in everything from production to the script.

You can see the passion, drive, determination, and love in the eyes of the actors and actresses, right on the screen. The cast seems to mesh together and you get the feel that they all can relate to the movie and it's theme in some form.

To Be King is not an average boxing movie that tries to teach you the skill of the sport. This is a movie that grabs you by your shoulders and walks with you through the everyday struggle one faces in today's society no matter where you are; life, love, family, and decisions.

Nigel Harvery the lead actor in the movie doesn't just show you boxing or the common everyday plight of the urban community instead through his eyes you see how an individual struggles to overcome the multitude of life's hurdles,the blood, sweat, and tears To BE King!! Harvey brings the movie to life and you can literally feel life as a fight because everything must be won while you shuffle your feet with all that life has unfolding.

To Be King will leave you feeling a sense of accomplishment and victory, for the entire team. At least, it is a job well done and at best, it is a masterpiece! It is for sure a MUST see!! Rahaman never ceases to amaze me and again To Be King is a job phenomenally done!!

A thoughtful and compelling new film

[Crazaytalent · 10/10 · 17 November 2011]

A thoughtful and compelling new film. Brought to life with by a talented cast and crew, whose passion for film-making and storytelling shines through!

The passion and familial bond this cast and crew shared was evident and came across well on screen. The acting was top notch with each member of the cast, holding their own to maintain a balance of talent, that puts the story they're telling above personal ego's. The production was one of quality and a strive for excellence without the over-indulged pretensions of big budget Hollywood.

I had the pleasure of meeting and getting to know personally many of the cast and crew, and am looking forward to more forthcoming projects from them all.

If you're looking for a gritty inspiring drama, with elements relate-able to anyone who has struggled in their life. Gives the message of 'the will to survive', and to 'fight through the struggles for better days', this would be that film! I highly recommend it to all!

A True Knockout Punch!

[thoughtprocess12 · 10/10 · 10 October 2011]

The first half of this movie is incredible and draws you in. It draws you in so much that by the end you feel as if you're a part of it and get knocked the F out. IMDb requires this to be 10 lines so I will ramble on a bit. I met the director and he's very... very... kindhearted and gracious. He shows passion for his art, and makes you feel that passion hardcore. Good luck to him and everyone that knows him. May their futures be blessed with triumphs, fortune, fame and discount items at various KMart locations around the Tri-state area. 2 more lines to go... let's see... umm.... boy that movie sure was good. I think this should do it. Thank you IMDb and all those that helped to make such a great film.

Sincerely, Jorgy Baby

Strong story, strong movie.

[skidmorelm · 9/10 · 4 January 2013]

Movie's about boxing always have something deeper to them than the muscle, sweat and fights. This movie stands with the best of them. The heart put into this movie, and the heart shown throughout the movie shows strong, is intense, and does not let you go.

And movie-making is alive and well in NYC. Steve Rahaman and Frankie Sooknanan wrote an awesome script. I really enjoyed the changes within each of the characters, even Tyrone's wife, when she allows him to hug their daughter. It would have been great to hear more about the brother's father, the King, but at the same time I think the allusions to a past gone wrong was absolutely sufficient and still highly effective.

Overall, I've got high praise for this film. Check it out.

Great MOVIE - Must Have Must See!

[madface31 · 10/10 · 27 May 2012]

I have to say when i got this movie in my hands i was excited to see it cause it was produced and directed by a good friend Steve Rahaman.

I made it a movie night with the family and they loved it to the plot the story line the action had us at our toes. Love the way it was real talk no over acting.

It was nice seeing some familiar places in New York. And the lead actor Nigel Harvey really stole the show.

I was excited and proud to meet such a great amount of people that worked on this movie and the fact That a good friend and Steve added me as an extra i am extremely humble.

The cast was greatly picked and i cant wait for the squeal. THANKS AGAIN Steve!!!

Awesome.

[sweetnaz2 · 10/10 · 25 August 2011]

Steven Rahman has out done himself again. What a GREAT movie.

As I watched the movie, To Be King, I couldn't help but feel empathy for the main character, Tyrone. The movie captured what lots of people in New York tend to feel, deprivation of luck. Tyrone who was faced with so many of life's problems was able to overcome them with the same passion his father had, Boxing. Tyrone's tribulations in the movie offered to it's audience a sense of hope! Hope that with dedication and hard work all will better.

While watching the movie I couldn't help feel overwhelmed with emotions. There were times in the movie where I cried and times where I laughed along with the characters.

Steve has really done a great job with writing and directing this movie. His progression in this line of work has really been amazing and to see him come so far shows how dedicated he is to his work. This passion of his in writing and directing has really been portrayed in To Be King.

Congratulations on a job well done and much success in the future.

Very worth watching

[stellaryear · 8 August 2012]

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!

Rockstar Status

[Rasher12 · 10/10 · 27 July 2020]

This movie is incredible. Low budget of Hollywood? I'm confused because it was so good. Got the Blu-ray at a swap meet and now I'm in love. Truly uplifting. Exceptional work.

Beautiful

[Marlargo56 · 10/10 · 27 July 2020]

Beautiful heart warming film. It's not about the action, it's all about the story. So happy I found this film. I'll be sharing this.

Go get your ticket...

[LisaC295 · 24 August 2011]

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.

Great Movie!!!!

[dkandasammy · 13 July 2011]

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!!"..

Go see TO BE KING!!

[rmcd2 · 6 September 2011]

I was so fortunate to see a private screening of Steve Rahaman's latest film "To Be King." This film blew me away. It is so much more than a film about boxing. The story is inspiring and the characters are easy to relate to. Most beautiful is the relationship between Tyrone (Nigel Harvey) and Nya, his daughter. The other actors deliver wonderful performances. Mr. Rahaman, his cast and crew prove that even with a low budget, a wonderful film can be made. "To Be King" blends action and high tension with heartfelt moments. It is a great story of a man overcoming the obstacles in his life. I look forward to seeing and supporting upcoming work by Steve Rahaman.

Good Story - Great Acting - Enjoyed Watching

[richc110 · 8 November 2011]

Far more then just a good boxing story. The personal relationships with family, friends and others played out with emotion and determination was well directed. The struggle of Tyrone King in his professional and personal life is well played by Nigel Harvey. The cast brought the movie to life with their in-depth performances. A boxing movie with a PG-13 rating that brought you into the boxing world was very well produced . Though this film is not a Hollywood product, but it is right up there with them. Another fine film by Steve Rahaman. I can not wait to see what he has up his sleeve for his next film.Just a fantastic family movie! I highly recommend this movie!