Ringside Seat

I portrayed a ringside photographer in “Ali” and would like to point out that not once during the 20 days I was on set did Will Smith have a double do any of his boxing or take a punch for him (“A Fight That Went the Full 15 Rounds,” by Patrick Goldstein, Dec. 9).

Smith also taped his hands before boxing each day in a ritual to help him get into character, and his stamina was inspiring. Working on “Ali,” while grueling, was a unique experience. I had ample time to observe the principals and get to know many of them, and discovered that they are typically gracious and not at all arrogant. Will Smith was particularly kind and generous. Michael Mann is a demanding taskmaster, but his perfectionism always seems to show up on the screen.

RAY UHLER

Tustin Ranch