Arts
B2 THE DAVIS ENTERPRISE
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2021
‘King Richard’: Game, set and match By Derrick Bang
‘King Richard’
Enterprise film critic Director Reinaldo Marcus Green’s “King Richard” is many things: an amazing underdog story, a touching family drama, a gently powerful indictment of institutional racism, and — most of all — the inspiring study of one man’s determination to doggedly persevere, despite being repeatedly knocked down … in some cases, literally. In a stunning screenwriter debut, Zach Baylin’s sensitivity to this true-life saga is sublime; he has a keen ear for husband/wife and parent/child dynamics, and an acute awareness of how to play us viewers. Given that Serena and Venus Williams serve as co-executive producers, there’s no doubt they’ve intended this film as a valentine to their father, and an acknowledgment of the miracle that he wrought. That said, there’s no false sentimentality here; the emotions are credible and authentic, the journey never contrived or sensationalized. Nor is this a hearts-and-flowers depiction of the man who molded two of the world’s greatest tennis stars. Will Smith’s starring performance — certain to earn an Oscar nomination — is prickly at times: frequently admirable, but often unlikable. By all accounts (including his own), Richard Williams was very difficult to live or work with: stubborn, demanding and often unreasonable, answering solely to his own (frequently bewildering) logic and carefully crafted vision. Smith’s portrayal is all these
Starring: Will Smith, Aunjanue Ellis, Saniyya Sidney, Demi Singleton, Jon Bernthal, Tony Goldwyn, Mikayla Lashae Bartholomew, Daniele Lawson, Layla Crawford Rating: PG-13 for violence, brief profanity, sexual candor and fleeting drug references Available via: Movie theaters and HBO Max (until Dec. 19) things, along with nobler aspects: devotion to his wife and daughters; fierce protectiveness, to the point of personal peril; a stickler for family values and a solid work ethic; a shrewd judge of character; and a pragmatic awareness of the limitations society places on its Black citizens … along with a feisty desire to circumvent such restrictions, whenever possible. Baylin’s script covers several crucial years in the early 1990s, and concludes with a late 1994 tournament in Oakland (at which point Venus is 14, and Serena 13). The film opens in Compton, where — despite Richard and his wife Oracene (Aunjanue Ellis) working multiple jobs — they’re able to afford only a small home; Venus (Saniyya Sidney), Serena (Demi Singleton) and their three sisters — Isha (Daniele Lawson), Lyndrea (Layla Crawford) and Tunde (Mikayla Lashae Bartholomew) — are stuffed into a
Courtesy photo
Serena (Demi Singleton, left) and Venus (Saniyya Sidney) listen intently as their father, Richard (Will Smith) emphasizes the need to give equal weight to training body, mind and soul. single bedroom, sharing beds. The house may be modest, but it’s clean, comfortable and safe … which can’t be said for the surrounding neighborhood. Baylin quickly sketches Richard’s taskmaster tendencies: Unless Venus and Serena are at school or studying, they’re rigorously practicing — rain or shine — on a dilapidated court they laughingly dub “the country club.” In addition to their endearing acting chops — you gotta love their dogged “game faces” — both young actresses look and move comfortably on the court (although the actual tennis action, throughout the film, is handled by carefully integrated doubles). But although Richard dominates these workouts, Oracene is equally involved and committed. Ellis makes her more grounded
and practical than Richard; she’s also the one person who can challenge him. She may seem patient and compliant at times, but — when Richard crosses a line — Ellis, eyes blazing, leaves no doubt that she’ll go for his jugular. The constant training sessions and Richard’s master plan notwithstanding, Baylin and Green repeatedly emphasize how crazy the whole thing seems: Tennis is an exclusively “white” sport, practiced and played in aristocratic country clubs where the only Black faces belong to the serving staff. This isn’t merely a glass ceiling; it’s the Great Wall of China. Baylin and Green never make a big deal of this, but the unspoken racism is pervasive, like a bad smell: unseen, but ubiquitous. Throughout it all, Richard remains relentless, Smith’s jaw
set with an optimism that seems as unlikely as the plan itself. Savvy viewers will reach a point, during the story’s first act, when they realize there’s only one way for Richard, Venus and Serena to punch through the seemingly impenetrable barrier. Moving forward from that point, Tony Goldwin is all business as top coach Paul Cohen, who worked with John McEnroe and Pete Sampras; even so, that doesn’t stop Richard from repeatedly kicking in his two cents. Goldwin is a study of conflicted exasperation: He clearly recognizes the girls’ talent, but definitely isn’t sure it’s worth putting up with Richard. Jon Bernthal is a hoot as gungho tennis academy guru Rick Macci, who seems the sports equivalent of the guys who tour the country giving inspirational self-help talks. Bernthal makes him so effervescent that we halfway expect the man to float; every word and gesture emerges with maximum enthusiasm. The film concludes with its most lengthy game segment, as Venus enters Oakland’s Bank of the West Classic tournament … and I guarantee you’ll be at the edge of the seat. Must-see movies don’t come along very often, but “King Richard” is one of the rare few: heartwarming, uplifting, triumphant and a tribute to the principled persistence of a man who refuses to be stopped by locked doors. — Read more of Derrick Bang’s film criticism at http://derrick bang.blogspot.com. Comment on this review at www.davisenter prise.com.
Opera House presents ‘Nutcracker Sweet’
WOH toy drive returns
Special to The Enterprise
Special to The Enterprise
Looking to start a new family tradition, or with friends? The historic Woodland Opera House in downtown Woodland has just the perfect thing for you. Something classic, yet different, that will appeal to all ages. Share “The Nutcracker Sweet” with those you love during the holidays. This production is a short and “sweet” retelling of the traditional Christmas ballet, “The Nutcracker.” The play is performed by students of the Woodland Opera House Education Program who have auditioned for the annual production. The Opera House serves hundreds of youth and adults in Yolo County with their wide selection of theatre arts classes that are taught by theatre and dance professionals. The main character, a
youngster named Clara, travels into a land of Sweets with her favorite Christmas present, a Magic Nutcracker. With spectacular costumes, top-notch set design, and incredible performances by very talented youth, you’ll be impressed and enchanted by this annual show that has become a holiday favorite of many.
County Health Department requires face coverings for all patrons regardless of vaccination status. And for an added layer of protection, Opera House staff will take the temperature of all theatre
attendees upon their entry. In addition, masks and hand sanitizer are available to anyone in attendance at each theatre event.
Purchase tickets online at https://www.etix.com/ ticket/e/1023258/thenutcracker--woodlandwoodlandopera-house or at the box office at 340 Second St. in Woodland or 530666-9617. Box office hours are Tuesday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m. Note the Opera House updated COVID protocols: While the Woodland Opera House is back to 100% capacity, currently the Yolo
NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF DONNA L. YACKEY CASE NO. PR2021-0251 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of: DONNA L. YACKEY, DONNA LEE YACKEY A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by: MICHAEL F. YACKEY in the Superior Court of California, County of: Yolo THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that: MICHAEL F. YACKEY be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A HEARING on the petition will be held on DECEMBER 16, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. in Department 9 located at 1000 Main Street, Woodland, CA 95695. IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Signed: LILIT A. MINASYAN, DROBNY LAW OFFICES, INC. ATTORNEY FOR PETITIONER 4180 TRUXEL ROAD, SUITE 100 SACRAMENTO, CA 95834 916-419-2100 12/1, 12/3, 12/8. #1571
The Annual Woodland Opera House Toy Drive is now underway! Launched on Nov. 19 in conjunction with the opening of the production of “Elf The Musical,” the Toy Drive is a longstanding tradition at the WOH. The Toy Drive will continue through performances of the next production, “The Nutcracker Sweet.” The community is asked to please bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate when at the theatre for the show, or anytime during box office business hours. The donation box is
located in the theatre lobby and the goal is to fill the box to the brim. Some ideas on items to donate are: art sets, coloring books, puzzles, educational toys, books, and games … anything that a child could learn from and have fun with is much appreciated. The following agencies will receive the Opera House’s donations: Yolo County’s Multidisciplinary Interview Center, Yolo County Office of Education Head Start, and Woodland Memorial Hospital Dignity Health. Call the Opera House office at 530-666-9617 with questions.
NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF PATRICIA LYNN KELLEHER, Case Number: PR2021-0248 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate or both of PATRICIA LYNN KELLEHER NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: JAMES MCELROY CASE NO. PR2021-0256 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the lost WILL or estate, or both of JAMES MCELROY. A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by ARIELLE MCELROY ROSATI in the Superior Court of California, County of YOLO. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that ARIELLE MCELROY ROSATI be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests the decedent's lost WILL and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The lost WILL and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 01/05/22 at 9:00AM in Dept. 10 located at 1000 MAIN STREET, WOODLAND, CA 95695 IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for Petitioner ANDREW NEF - SBN 336226 LAW OFFICES OF DANIEL A. HUNT 2200 E. BIDWELL ST. FOLSOM CA 95630 12/1, 12/3, 12/10/21 CNS-3533086# THE DAVIS ENTERPRISE Published December 1, 3, 10, 2021 #1593
A Petition for Probate has been filed by: Kathryn A. Minta in the Superior Court of California, County of Yolo The Petition for Probate requests that Kathryn A. Minta be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. The petition requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: Date: 12/28/2021, Time: 9:00 a.m., Dept. 10 Address: 1000 Main Street, Woodland, CA 95695 If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. If you are a creditor or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California Law. You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for Petitioner: John B. Palley 1555 River Park Drive, Suite 108 Sacramento, CA 95815 (916) 920-5983 Published November 26, December 3, 10, 2021 #1581
