The Fighter

Directed by: David O. Russell
Released: USA 10-December-2010 UK 02 February 2011
Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Christian Bale, Amy Adams, Melissa Leo

IMDB Link

She said:

I knew two things when I first saw the trailer for The Fighter: 1. I have no real interest in a film about boxing and 2. This film looks very very good. It was the latter thought, of course, that made me go and see it. And I am very glad I did.

This film is brilliant - there is no other way to say it. There are so many actors who shine in this role, Melissa Leo and Amy Adams are both fantastic, but it has to be said that supporting actor Christian Bale completely overshadowed them all, including lead Mark Wahlberg. Bale is a method actor to an almost disturbing extent. You could see him living this role, which can't have been pleasant, and giving an amazing performance.

I found The Fighter brilliant but challenging to watch. It deals with issues of class, fame, drug abuse, family, relationships, etc - and it does so in a very raw way. Filmed cinema verite style, director Russell pulled me into this story and it stopped being 'a film about boxing', and started being a interesting story about loyalty and self-belief.

I give this film {{{4 out of 5}}}

He said:

The Fighter may follow the formula of every good sports film to have come before it but it does the formula justice. Bale and Wahlberg both shine in their respective roles. I was not at all surprised to see Bale nominated for his performance as he shows the audience once more the level talent he possesses.

Not to be out done by the films leading men, the Fighter's supporting actresses also brought their A game talent. Adam's stands out especially as Wahlberg's love interest and a role that could not be further from her normal bread and butter (Enchanted, Leap Year and the like.) Melissa Leo is fantastic flawed as the boy's mother/manager.

This is a film very much like last months Black Swan that even if you aren't interested or in the sport/art form at the base of the story you become invested early and for the remainder of the film. If you liked Russell Crowe's Cinderella Man you will enjoy this as well. I give this film {{{4 out of 5}}}

They said: If you aren't a fan of boxing, don't worry - you might find yourself actually getting into it by the time the redits role! We give this film {{{8 out of 10}}}

Question of the day: What is your favourite sports film?