Los Angeles, California — The Other Side of the Mirror: The Legacy of George Foreman, one of Netflix’s most eagerly awaited sports documentaries of the year, will be released soon. The film, which is scheduled to have its global premiere this fall, promises an unheard-of, intimate, and unvarnished insight into the life of George Foreman, one of boxing’s most recognizable and complicated characters.
The Other Side of the Mirror reveals the inner journey of a man who underwent redemption, reinvention, and resilience like few others in the sports industry, despite Foreman’s most well-known status as the two-time heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist.
Above and Beyond a Champion
The documentary, which is narrated by award-winning actor and ardent Foreman fan Denzel Washington, follows Foreman’s incredible journey from his impoverished upbringing in Houston’s Fifth Ward to his rise to prominence as a formidable figure in the boxing world in the 1970s.
With never-before-seen archival footage, family members’ behind-the-scenes interviews, boxing legends like Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield, and Muhammad Ali’s daughter Laila Ali, as well as exclusive commentary from Foreman himself, the film immerses viewers in the spirit of a fighter who was more than just strength and power.
The project’s director, Ava DuVernay, stated, “This isn’t just a boxing story.” It’s an American tale about faith, forgiveness, and second chances. On multiple occasions, George Foreman transformed his life and the way others perceived him.
The Reimagining No One Foresaw
The documentary’s examination of Foreman’s spiritual and personal changes after he retired from boxing in 1977 after a near-death experience in the locker room is arguably its most intriguing feature. After a spectacular break from the brutal world of boxing, Foreman went on to become a preacher and devote his life to faith and youth outreach. In the 1990s, he returned to the ring and became the oldest heavyweight champion in history at the age of 45.
In the movie, Foreman reflects, “The world laughed when I said I was coming back.” However, I wasn’t attempting to convince anyone of anything. I wanted to demonstrate to my children that nothing is insurmountable.
Not Just a Grill
Naturally, The Other Side of the Mirror doesn’t hold back when examining the intriguing cultural phenomenon that elevated Foreman’s reputation outside of boxing: the George Foreman Grill. What started off as a humorous product endorsement grew into a multimillion-dollar brand and contributed to Foreman’s transformation into a gregarious, grin-wearing businessman who is adored by millions.
A Tradition of Fortitude, Courage, and Survival
Early reviewer reviews characterize the film as “deeply moving,” “unexpectedly profound,” and “a reminder of what it means to rise, fall, and rise again” as excitement for its premiere grows.
In addition to celebrating George Foreman’s history, Netflix’s release of The Other Side of the Mirror solidifies him as a representation of tenacity, creativity, and the resilience of the human spirit.
In October, Netflix will launch The Other Side of the Mirror.