By Allen Davis

On a momentous Monday evening in Philadelphia, the highly anticipated U.S. premiere of the new documentary “In the Company of Kings” unfolded at the prestigious Philadelphia Film Society East Theater. The event was graced by a host of esteemed guests, including Mick Stefanek, the Camp Manager of Fighter’s Heaven, and talented photographer Jeff Julian, who contributed a collection of captivating photographs featuring Ali at Deer Lake that were seamlessly integrated into the film.

The creative minds behind the documentary, Director Steve Read and Producer Robert Douglas, were present to introduce their cinematic masterpiece to the eager audience. The screening was further elevated by the presence of legendary figures from the boxing world, such as former middleweight champion Bernard Hopkins and former two-time heavyweight champion Tim Witherspoon, both of whom played pivotal roles in the film. Fighter’s Heaven, a significant location where the crew had spent several days filming a few years prior, also took center stage in the narrative.

The documentary, a powerful and emotionally charged exploration of its subject matter, struck a chord with the diverse and captivated audience, receiving resounding praise and applause throughout the screening. Following the film, an engaging and insightful Q&A session was held, featuring discussions with Read, Douglas, Hopkins, and Witherspoon, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the documentary and sharing personal reflections on their involvement.

Excitement for the documentary extends beyond the U.S., as audiences in England can anticipate its premiere later this month. Furthermore, broader accessibility is on the horizon, with plans for the film to be available on popular streaming platforms such as Apple TV and Amazon Prime in the near future. “In the Company of Kings” promises to captivate viewers with its compelling storytelling, striking visuals, and the rich tapestry of experiences shared by its remarkable cast of characters. By #AllenDavis