Stan Smith is a name that resonates with millions of people around the world. From former President Obama to Taylor Swift, Pharrell Williams, and Justin Timberlake, everyone has walked a mile in Stan Smith’s shoes. But there is much more to Stan Smith than just being the face of an iconic brand of Adidas kicks. His story, his activism, and his journey to becoming synonymous with a popular tennis shoe are all captured in the new documentary titled “Who Is Stan Smith?”
Long before Air Jordans took over the sneaker world, there were Stan Smiths. The documentary delves into the origins of Stan Smith’s collaboration with Adidas, a tale that involves a late-night meeting at a risqué nightclub in Paris with Horst Dassler, the son of the founder of Adidas. The film explores how Stan Smith went from being a tennis superstar to a leading civil rights and AIDS activist, all while his namesake Adidas sneakers became a fashion statement for hip hop musicians and celebrities for more than 50 years.
Adidas originally launched the Stan Smith shoe in 1965, initially tying it to French tennis player Robert Haillet. However, a decade later, the company decided to rebrand the footwear around a prominent American player, and that’s where Stan Smith stepped in. His partnership with Adidas was a game-changer, not just for him personally, but for the brand as well. Stan Smith recalls, “When I signed the contract, I thought it might be a three-year deal or a five-year deal. I was in the right place at the right time.”
“Who Is Stan Smith?” is a powerful and inspiring portrait of the man behind the shoe that became a movement. The film features extensive interviews with Stan Smith, his family, and many famous athletes and celebrities, including John McEnroe, Darryl McDaniels, and Donald Dell. Produced by Uninterrupted and in association with Calico, the documentary offers a glimpse into the life and legacy of Stan Smith, showcasing his transition from a tennis star to a leading activist and cultural icon.
Executive Producers
The documentary is executive produced by a stellar lineup that includes LeBron James, Maverick Carter, Jamal Henderson, Alexandra Dell, and Donald Dell. These individuals have played a significant role in bringing Stan Smith’s story to the big screen, highlighting his impact not just in the world of sports but also in social activism and fashion.
“Who Is Stan Smith?” is set to open at the Nuart Theater in Los Angeles and later at New York City’s Angelika Film Center. The film is scheduled to expand to 50 markets through May, with screenings in cities like Washington, DC, Atlanta, Dallas, Denver, and San Francisco. This widespread release signifies the widespread interest and admiration for Stan Smith and his enduring legacy.
Stan Smith’s story is one of resilience, activism, and cultural influence. From his humble beginnings as a tennis player to becoming a global icon, Stan Smith has left an indelible mark on the world of sports and fashion. “Who Is Stan Smith?” serves as a tribute to his legacy, celebrating the man behind the shoe that became a symbol of style and substance.