Unpacking the Legacy of a Tennis Great

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MOVIE REVIEW
Who Is Stan Smith?
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 35m
Director(s): Danny Lee
Where To Watch: US run with red carpet premieres at Los Angeles’ Nuart Theater on May 3, 2024, and New York City’s Angelika Film Center on May 10, bringing the film to 50 markets throughout May. For more information, visit www.whoisstansmith.com

RAVING REVIEW: WHO IS STAN SMITH? grabs your attention with its investigative story of the evolution of an iconic sneaker and the man behind the infamous name. Directed by Danny Lee, this documentary not only tracks the transformation of the Adidas Stan Smith from a mere athletic sneaker to a cultural icon. Along the way, it rallies a deeper narrative about the man, the myth, the person that causes most people to ask, “Who?” revealing the profound impact that transcends sports and fashion.

Set against the backdrop of the 1970s fashion scene, the film kicks off by charting the rise of the Adidas Stan Smith sneaker, initially spotlighting its adoption by style icons like David Bowie and, later, its embrace by trailblazing musical acts such as Run DMC and the Beastie Boys. This sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of how these sneakers became synonymous with cool—intentionally avoiding the elephant of the room until we get to the core of the documentary.

The exploration of Stan Smith (a name that I had heard before but knew nothing about,) who reached beyond his fame as a sneaker icon, emerges as a pivotal figure in both tennis and broader societal contexts. The film seamlessly transitions from the global sneaker craze to a penetrating look at Smith's life, juxtaposing his professional achievements with his substantial societal contributions.

The film also spotlights Smith’s efforts in advocating for African-American rights, drawing a compelling link to tennis legend Arthur Ashe (which bothers people for some reason). Their shared endeavors in civil rights are captured with sensitivity, emphasizing Smith's role as both a supporter during Ashe’s challenges and a partner in advocacy. It highlights pivotal moments that shaped their contributions to social justice.

The documentary pays tribute to Smith's journey from a collegiate sensation to a Grand Slam champion, documenting his trailblazing path through sports and his pioneering role in athlete endorsements. As well as the strategic marketing moves which catapulted Smith’s name to global recognition are detailed as turning points in sports marketing.

The film delves into Smith’s humanitarian side, particularly his anti-apartheid initiatives and his mentorship of South African youth, including Mark Mathabane. These efforts are portrayed as integral parts of his character, demonstrating his deep commitment to fostering change and promoting equality.

In his later years, Smith took significant strides to democratize tennis, making it accessible to urban youth and challenging the sport’s traditional exclusivities. Commentaries from tennis contemporaries, such as John McEnroe, add depth, painting Smith as a revolutionary figure who reshaped the sport’s landscape.

So… WHO IS STAN SMITH? We get that answer and more in this film that transcends the traditional sports documentary format, offering viewers a portrayal of a man who has left an indelible mark on both style and society. The film concludes by reaffirming the lasting appeal of Stan Smith sneakers, symbolizing the enduring legacy of a man who sparked a cultural revolution. Through this documentary, the legend of Stan Smith is both celebrated and critically examined, ensuring his story resonates with a new generation.

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[photo courtesy of UNINTERRUPTED, CALICO, MONKEY WRENCH FILMS]

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