*A glitzy screening was held Monday night in New York City’s SVA Theater for the documentary “Serena,” which details the highs and lows of the past year experienced by tennis phenom Serena Williams — from pursuing four Grand Slam titles to launching a clothing line, and being named Sports Illustrated’s Sportsperson of the Year.
Williams told Variety that she initially had her doubts about cameras following her around 24/7. “Everyone’s going to have their reservations,” she admitted. “How is it going to turn out? How is it going to look, and how’s it going to be received and perceived?”
“She was very brave in allowing a filmmaker to be that close to her in the highs and lows,” said director Ryan White. “She trusted me. I showed her the film a couple of months ago for the first time and she asked for nothing to be changed, and I have to give her credit for that.”
“Serena” premieres June 22 on the premium television channel EPIX.
View the trailer and pics from the premiere below:
After the screening, Gayle King lead a Q&A session with Williams and White before guests, including Vera Wang, Iggy Azealia, Anna Wintour and Spike Lee, enjoyed a tray of seafood, and Moet champagne while listening to old school and current hip-hop at the Top of the Standard, reports Variety.
More pics below:
