Althea ( 2014 )

Althea (2014): A Deep Dive into the Life of a Tennis Legend

Althea, a 2014 documentary directed by Rex Miller, offers a compelling and intimate portrait of Althea Gibson, the first African American to break the color barrier in international tennis. More than just a sports film, Althea explores the multifaceted life of a woman who overcame immense adversity, shattered societal expectations, and ultimately secured her place as a sporting icon. The film deftly weaves together archival footage, interviews with family, friends, fellow athletes, and historians to paint a vivid picture of Gibson's journey, from her humble beginnings in Harlem to her triumphant wins at Wimbledon and the U.S. Nationals.

Early Life and the Seeds of a Champion

The film begins by establishing the context of Gibson's early life. Born in Silver, South Carolina, in 1927, she moved to Harlem, New York, as a young child during the Great Migration. The documentary emphasizes the challenges of growing up in poverty and navigating the complexities of racial segregation. Gibson's introduction to sports came through paddle tennis and stickball, providing her with an outlet for her energy and a competitive spirit. It was at the Cosmopolitan Tennis Club in Harlem that her natural talent for tennis was recognized and nurtured. The documentary highlights the crucial role of community mentors, like Buddy Walker and Walter Johnson, who recognized her potential and provided her with the necessary resources and support to develop her skills.

The film doesn't shy away from portraying Gibson's difficult personality as a teenager. She was often described as rebellious and prone to truancy. However, her innate athleticism and determination were undeniable. These early experiences shaped her resilience and determination, qualities that would prove invaluable as she faced the racial prejudices that permeated the world of tennis.

Breaking Barriers and Facing Prejudice

Althea meticulously details the systemic racism that Gibson encountered throughout her career. The film features powerful interviews with historians and experts who contextualize the segregation laws and social norms of the era. It wasn't simply about winning matches; Gibson was battling against ingrained prejudice that sought to exclude her from participating in the sport altogether. The United States Lawn Tennis Association (USLTA), the governing body of American tennis, initially resisted integrating its tournaments. The documentary reveals the strategic efforts undertaken by civil rights activists and influential figures within the tennis community, such as Alice Marble, to pressure the USLTA to open its doors to Gibson.

Marble, a former Wimbledon champion, penned a powerful editorial in American Lawn Tennis magazine in 1950, arguing forcefully for Gibson's inclusion. This pivotal moment, highlighted in the film, demonstrated the power of allyship in challenging discriminatory practices. The film expertly portrays the internal conflict Gibson faced: the desire to compete at the highest level versus the burden of representing an entire race. She was acutely aware that her every move was scrutinized, and any misstep could be used to reinforce negative stereotypes.

The documentary uses archival footage of Gibson's early matches to illustrate the blatant racism she faced from crowds and even some opponents. The pressure was immense, but she persevered, demonstrating remarkable composure and grace under fire. While she faced hostile environments, she also received unwavering support from a dedicated group of fans, particularly within the African American community, who saw her as a symbol of hope and progress.

Triumph on the World Stage

The film chronicles Gibson's ascent to the top of the tennis world, culminating in her historic victories at the French Open in 1956, Wimbledon in 1957 and 1958, and the U.S. Nationals in 1957 and 1958. The archival footage of these matches is thrilling, showcasing Gibson's powerful serve, aggressive net play, and unwavering focus. The documentary expertly uses slow-motion replays and dynamic editing to highlight the athleticism and skill that made her a champion.

The interviews with fellow athletes and tennis historians provide valuable insights into Gibson's playing style and her impact on the game. She was a trailblazer in terms of her athleticism and aggressive style of play, paving the way for future generations of female tennis players. The documentary emphasizes the significance of her Wimbledon victories, which catapulted her to international stardom and cemented her legacy as a sporting icon. Her image graced magazine covers, and she became a role model for millions around the world.

However, the documentary also reveals the financial challenges Gibson faced despite her success. In the amateur era of tennis, players were not allowed to earn substantial prize money. This meant that even as a champion, Gibson struggled to make a living. The film highlights the stark contrast between the glamour associated with her victories and the reality of her financial struggles.

From Tennis to Golf and Beyond

Frustrated with the limitations of amateur tennis, Gibson made the bold decision to turn professional in 1959. However, her transition to professional tennis was not as lucrative as she had hoped. The sport was still largely dominated by white players, and Gibson faced limited opportunities. In the early 1960s, she pursued a career in professional golf, becoming the first African American woman to join the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA). While she didn't achieve the same level of success in golf as she did in tennis, her decision to pursue another professional sport demonstrated her unwavering determination and her willingness to challenge the status quo.

The film explores the challenges Gibson faced in the world of professional golf, including limited sponsorship opportunities and continued racial prejudice. Despite these obstacles, she persevered, proving her versatility and athletic prowess. The documentary underscores the fact that Gibson's contributions extended beyond the tennis court; she was a pioneer in multiple sports, paving the way for future generations of African American athletes.

The documentary also touches upon Gibson's later life, including her brief singing career and her work as a tennis instructor. It explores her struggles with health problems and financial difficulties in her later years. The film doesn't shy away from portraying the complexities of her life, highlighting both her triumphs and her challenges.

Legacy and Impact

Althea culminates in a powerful reflection on Gibson's legacy and impact. The documentary emphasizes her role as a trailblazer, a role model, and a symbol of hope. She shattered racial barriers, challenged societal expectations, and inspired countless individuals to pursue their dreams, regardless of their background.

The film highlights the numerous accolades and honors Gibson received throughout her life and posthumously, including her induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame. It also emphasizes the importance of remembering her story and ensuring that her contributions are never forgotten. The documentary serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and the importance of celebrating the achievements of those who have paved the way for progress.

Critical Reception

Althea was generally well-received by critics, who praised its insightful storytelling, its use of archival footage, and its powerful portrayal of a complex and inspiring figure. Critics noted the film's ability to capture both the triumphs and the challenges of Gibson's life, providing a nuanced and compelling portrait of a sporting legend. The film was also praised for its exploration of the historical context in which Gibson's career unfolded, shedding light on the systemic racism that she faced and the significance of her achievements in breaking down barriers.

However, some critics felt that the film could have delved deeper into certain aspects of Gibson's life, such as her personal relationships and her later struggles. Nevertheless, the consensus was that Althea is a valuable and important documentary that sheds light on the life and legacy of a true American hero.

Tables Summarizing Key Aspects of Althea Gibson's Life and Career

Table 1: Key Events in Althea Gibson's Life

Table 2: Althea Gibson's Major Tennis Championships

Table 3: Key Figures Who Supported Althea Gibson

Conclusion

Althea is more than just a sports documentary; it's a powerful and moving testament to the human spirit. It tells the story of a woman who defied the odds, overcame prejudice, and achieved greatness. The film serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance, resilience, and the pursuit of equality. Althea Gibson's story continues to inspire generations, and this documentary ensures that her legacy will endure for years to come.