The sporting world is set to witness the dramatic retelling of a boxing legend's life. The much-anticipated docudrama titled 'Giant' brings the electrifying story of Britain's former world champion 'Prince' Naseem Hamed to cinemas globally, starting January 8. The film features Amir El-Masry portraying the boxer at his peak and Hollywood star Pierce Brosnan playing his influential trainer, Brendan Ingle.
From Sheffield Streets to World Titles
The narrative follows Hamed's incredible journey from modest origins to the pinnacle of boxing fame. Hamed, who held multiple featherweight world titles during a stellar career spanning 1992 to 2002, was as famous for his flamboyant ring entrances and showmanship as for his punching power. The film's core focuses on his complex and pivotal relationship with his mentor, Irish trainer Brendan Ingle.
Ingle, who operated a gym in Sheffield, England, dedicated his life to steering young people away from street troubles and into the discipline of boxing. The story begins when Hamed's Yemeni parents send their sons to Ingle's gym to help them defend against racist bullying. A 7-year-old Naseem immediately captures attention with his natural speed, footwork, and undeniable confidence. The movie charts how Ingle's unconventional training techniques, combined with Hamed's raw talent, catapulted them both to the top of the sport, a journey that ultimately strained their bond under the pressure of success.
Stars Pour Heart into Iconic Roles
At the film's London premiere on Wednesday, Pierce Brosnan described the project as a tale of two fiercely ambitious outsiders. "It's a story of two men who are wildly ambitious ... who know what it's like to be on the outside of life and have this ferocious passion to be great," he stated. The role of the younger Naseem is brought to life by brothers Ghaith and Ali Saleh, who play him at ages 7 and 12 respectively.
Amir El-Masry, tasked with portraying Hamed in his prime, underwent a gruelling preparation. He committed to four weeks of intensive training, 12 hours a day, which resulted in him losing 8 kg (18 pounds). He also meticulously studied archive footage to master Hamed's distinctive movements and attitude. "Massive boots to fill. He was one of my heroes growing up," El-Masry admitted, acknowledging the challenge.
A Father-Son Story and a Legacy Honoured
'Giant' was written and directed by Rowan Athale, with Hollywood icon Sylvester Stallone serving as an executive producer. Athale framed the film not just as a sports biography but as a "fractured love story between a father and a son." He emphasized his goal to spotlight Ingle's monumental contribution to boxing and his community, stating, "He's as brilliant in his field as Naz was in his, so I wanted to give them equal time."
Notably, the real Naseem Hamed, now 51, attended the London premiere to show his support but was not involved in the film's production. Offering his candid perspective, Hamed said, "To be really honest, this is not a story about me. It's a film about the prince and his trainer. It's not really had my input at all, so it's some good parts and there's some bad parts." He revealed plans for his own documentary series about his life, to be produced with actor Mark Wahlberg.
Audiences worldwide can experience this gripping sports saga when 'Giant' begins its global theatrical release on January 8, offering a ringside seat to a story of ambition, talent, and a tested partnership.
