Directed by: Antoine Fuqua
Written by: Kurt Sutter
Cast: Jake Gyllenhaal, Rachel McAdams, Oona Laurence
Some actors have the uncanny ability of “Sliding Into A Role Seamlessly.” This is a very select group of artists who you could name off the five fingers of your right hand. With a string of terrific performances to his credit, culminating with his flawless characterization in this film, Mr. Gyllenhaal springboards right into that group. He is a joy to watch; totally absorbed into what just may be the performance of the year. Personally, I have become a fan! After seeing this film, you will be too.
Ok, so some of my fellow critics say this boxing opus is racked with clichés, and far be it for me to disagree with them, but the thing is, they are not seeing the depth of the film making going on here, the deeply talented cast at the top of their game, the evocative and challenging cinematography, and the sure handed guidance of a tremendously talented director. It all conspires to raise the film above its material and makes for sincerely satisfying entertainment, on every level. This is not your grandfather’s Rocky, rather it’s a journey of redemption into the heart of the “sweet science” led with great care by people who understand, love and cherish the sport.
Here’s the storyline:
Director Antoine Fuqua (Training Day) delivers another riveting story, this time stepping into the ring to show us the soft underbelly of the fight game. Junior Middleweight Boxing Champion Billy “The Great” Hope (Jake Gyllenhaal) is on top of the world enjoying fame and a lavish lifestyle with his wife (Rachel McAdams) and his beloved daughter (Oona Laurence), when it all comes crashing down at a fundraiser in his honor. After his long time manager (Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson) leaves him in the dust and his finances hit rock bottom, he turns to retired fighter and trainer Tick Willis (Forest Whitaker) to help him find his way back to the redemption he so desperately desires.
Gyllenhaal is totally convincing as he folds himself completely into this character, he’s all bulked up, loaded with scars and tats, and blearily losing focus as he slurs his speech. It’s a top-drawer performance sure to earn him an Academy Award Nomination. Rachel McAdams also turns in another appealing performance as his wife and protector, and newcomer Oona Laurance, playing their bright, loving young daughter is an adorable charmer.
The other star of the film, as palpable as any element, is the way Fuqua chose to film the story, with long unrelenting takes that involve you directly in the action in a way unfamiliar to this kind of tale. When you would normally look away, you’ll find yourself looking into the action even more. It’s a great artistic achievement that most filmmakers would never even understand how to create.
So my take… Don’t miss this one! It’s a great movie and deserves to be recognized for what it is, one really great fight film.
