Life of a King

Set in Washington DC, Life of a King tells the true story of Eugene Brown after he serves a long prison sentence and returns to mentor at‑risk teens who face a tough future. He launches the Big Chair Chess Club as a strict yet hopeful space where chess becomes a tool for focus, discipline and possibility. Brown shares lessons learned from his own life, showing that planning, patience and responsibility can steer youths toward school, jobs or trade programs. The narrative follows Tahime, Peanut, Clifton and other local teens as they begin to view themselves through a wider lens and start to imagine paths they hadn't imagined before.

Directed by Jake Goldberger Life of a King is grounded in a true life story. The screenplay credits go to David Scott and Dan Wetzel, adapting material from Eugene Brown's experiences.

The film centers on redemption and mentorship in an urban setting. Gooding Jr delivers a grounded performance that anchors the story while a supporting cast shows the obstacles and small victories that come with discipline, guidance and new opportunities.