Magnolia Pictures in association with M + M Films documentary Venus and Serena, by any means is an American love story. It is the love of a father who had a dream of two young women, that love to play tennis and who just happen to be black and from the city of Compton. The film documentary by director, producers, Maiken Baird (producer of “Client 9†and “The Rise and Fall of Eliot Spitzerâ€) and Michelle Major (producer at “Good Morning Americaâ€) speaks volumes for all sports lovers of Tennis. The movie traces the William’s sisters from childhood in the 1990’s to their rise as the first African American tennis players, and sisters to win the Wimbledon. Michelle Major has worked with Diane Sawyer producing celebrity interviews as well as, ABC’s. Good Morning America where she covered dynamic and cause related stories like Hurricane Katrina and the 2008 Presidential election. Filming partner Maiken Baird brings her skills as an independent filmmaker to the project. Her well-rounded background and specialty in international and political affair bleed through in this fantastic outline of the life of African Americans who were slated to excel against all odds. In addition, Baird began her career at ABC News as a researcher for Peter Jennings News Specials. Venus and Serena’s story could be compared to the trials and tribulations of any American athlete of color. Althea Gibson, Muhammed Ali and Arthur Ashe, are two Americans who wearing the color of a darker hue, cast their foot down on racism, and by taking possession of their own mind, were able to succeed. The cast interviewed including Bill Clinton, Arnon Milchan, Guy Talese, Anna Wintour, Billie Jean King, John McEnroe, agents, trainers and the crew, all spoke of their admiration, their love and respect for the two now historical figures of sports. The challenges met by each sister, may remind you of what it must have been like for Jackie Robinson and Jack Johnson. It could possibly be that the Williams sisters may even have it harder than their predecessors who to some degree expected racism, but in 2013 a time when androids, smart phones, IPADS and public outcry can be managed from a box could very well create a feeling of pressure felt by players who are just simply Americans, that like Tennis. The blatant difference between then and now is that these two young women do not live in a time wherein they cannot explore their talent. In a society that snickers, stares and who can be downright rude, one can still have access and the freedom and prestige that success offers. When you are on top of the world, sometimes it can feel that there are no barriers. There are no quiet and ugly words whispered in the night, in the press and inside the court. Serena tells of her various personalities like Takwanda, who seem to show themselves when she is upset. Takwanda, who is one of the many, perhaps spoke to the referee that made a wrong call and Serena was fined. Each personality is named for each fleeting mood. There is one for her down in the druthers, for her happy me, her feeling like fun and mischief, or her, I’m just being me, a regular black girl. Where else but America whom with its pride and prejudice and its constant reminder of the societal mistakes it has made can two sisters, dark bold and beautiful share their story on film. Their struggle is an inspiration to the culture that they represent as well as to all sports lovers. The pride they exude and their YES WE CAN attitude is nothing short of admirable. Serena has the task of maintaining an autoimmune deficiency and therefore, her state of mind has to remain focused and positive in order for her to continue playing. The raw and often tedious techniques taught by their father and mother proved adequate for this homegrown success story. Love of the game takes precedence over dating, falling in love, and having children. Both sisters maintain close ties with both parents although the father has remarried. Sibling rivalry has been different for Venus and Serena because that rivalry took place, in real time, on the court where anger and frustration can be grunted out with speed of a yellow ball. Serena has gone into style and fashion and can show off her vocals singing Karaoke which is a great pastime for them both. Extremely gifted, both young ladies have developed additional talent to fall back on as they continue to mature and come to face with leaving Tennis. Venus likes products of all kinds and colorful designs that can be used as interior décor. Venus and Serena have set the standard for how to play the game. One has to admire and take notice of parents whom although had no experience in raising star athletes, gave birth to two. The Venus and Serena film documentary was the official selection for the Tribeca Film festival, 2012 Toronto Film Festival, the 2013 Miami Film Festival, 2012 DOC NYC and the 2012 Bermuda Docs Film Festival.
The films next screening will be held on Monday, April 29th, 2:00PM, Wilshire Screening Room, 8670 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 122, Beverly Hills, California 90211. It is being presented by Los Angeles and national PR representative Marina Bailey, Marina Bailey PR, 6569 De Longpre Avenue, Hollywood, California 90028. (323) 650-3627 email marina@marinabailey.com.
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