By Chlotrudis Independent Film Society
Rating: 4.75 cats
Director: Elizabeth Wolff | Liz Garbus
Year: 2026
Running time: 101
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt39150093/
Vicki says: “GIVE ME THE BALL! is an inspiring documentary about the life of tennis great, Billie Jean King. While I knew about her famous ‘Battle of the Sexes’ match, I didn’t fully appreciate just how much she contributed to the world of sports and women’s rights until watching this film.
“Through archival footage and candid interviews, the documentary paints a portrait of a woman who refused to accept the status quo and paid a personal price for pushing so hard for equality. She is not portrayed as a heroine which makes the film even more powerful. What stood out for me was her unwavering determination that triumphed over her personal moments of self-doubt and sacrifice.
“The film moves along at a brisk pace and even if you’re not a tennis fan, there’s plenty here to keep you engaged. This is really a story about courage, persistence, and using your platform to make things better for others. By the end, I found myself looking at Billie Jean King through a new lens. 4.5 cats 🐱”
Michael says: “What an inspiring film. Billie Jean King is still fighting the important fight for equality for women, and she did so much throughout her life despite her own personal challenges. Fairly straight-forward doc, but such amazing archival footage of her playing, and to have her narrating her phenomenal life with her wit, and her insights, was just incredible. 5 cats”