Watch Para: We Are King
- 2021
- 2 Seasons
-
6.7 (409)
We Are King is a gripping drama series on TNT that premiered in 2021. The show follows three strong and independent women - sisters Elsie and Karina (played by Jeanne Goursaud and Soma Pysall respectively) and their friend and fellow fighter, Ouma (played by Dela Dabulamanzi) - as they navigate their way through the brutal world of mixed martial arts (MMA).
Elsie, Karina, and Ouma hail from vastly different backgrounds but all share an unbridled passion for the sport. Elsie is a fighter with a troubled past who uses MMA as a way to cope with her personal demons. Karina, on the other hand, comes from a wealthy family but has always been drawn to the physical and mental challenges of MMA. Ouma is a single mother who fights in order to earn enough money to support her family.
The series starts with the three women already established in the MMA scene. Elsie is a talented fighter who has just returned from a self-imposed exile, Karina is aiming to break into the professional circuit, and Ouma is doing what she can to scrape by. As the series progresses, they encounter various challenges both on and off the ring, including personal struggles, injuries, and conflicts with opponents and trainers.
One of the strengths of We Are King is the depth of its characters. Elsie, Karina, and Ouma are all fully fleshed out individuals with their own unique personalities and struggles. Elsie, for example, is haunted by her past and harbors a deep-seated anger that often gets in the way of her fighting. Karina, who appears to have it all, is seeking validation from her father, who has never supported her MMA aspirations. Ouma, meanwhile, is juggling her responsibilities as a mother and a fighter while facing racism and xenophobia in the MMA world.
Another aspect that sets this show apart is its nuanced portrayal of the MMA industry. While the sport is often viewed through a hyper-masculine lens, We Are King highlights the experiences of women and people of color in the sport. It touches on issues like sexism, racism, and financial exploitation, showing the significant obstacles that fighters from marginalized backgrounds face.
The MMA scenes in the series are also incredibly well-shot and choreographed. The fights are intense and realistic, with each woman fighting in a distinct style that reflects their personalities and backgrounds. The tension builds as the show progresses and the stakes get higher, leading up to a finale that is sure to leave viewers on the edge of their seats.
Overall, We Are King is a must-watch for fans of drama and sports alike. It has excellent writing, acting, and cinematography, and it tackles important issues with sensitivity and nuance. It's a show that will keep you invested in the characters' journeys, both inside and outside the ring, and leave you wanting more.
Para: We Are King is a series that ran for 2 seasons (12 episodes) between April 22, 2021 and on TNT