Ali (2001)

Based On the Life of: Muhammad Ali

Starring: Will Smith

Movie Budget: $107 million

Star Salary: $20 million

To portray the role of famous boxer Muhammad Ali in this movie, Will Smith had to pack on muscle, study boxing, and learn about Islam in order to throw himself into the role. Smith’s role in the 2001 biography Ali would prove that he’s got what it takes to be a formidable dramatic actor.

Written and directed by Michael Mann, the film focuses on ten years in the life of Muhammad Ali, from 1964 until 1974. Though a short period, a lot happened in Ali’s life during that time: he recaptured his title from Sonny Liston, resisted the Vietnam War, and converted to Islam.