ALI (2001)
Will Smith enters the ring as perhaps the most famous boxer of all time, Cassius Clay, aka Muhammad Ali.
The film traces Ali’s triumphant rise to heavyweight champion, explores his allegiance to the Nation of Islam and friends like Malcolm X, and his refusal to fight in the Vietnam War, before championing his victorious come-back.
Michael Mann’s film has helped a new generation come to know a true legend of boxing.
MILLION DOLLAR BABY (2004)
Hilary Swank, Morgan Freeman and Clint Eastwood star in this emotional tale story of an aging trainer, an old friend and a 31 year old waitress who wants to better herself.
Reluctant relationships are forged, old wrongs forgiven and things are looking up before an event in the ring changes things forever. Utterly devastating - but filmmaking at its very best.
CINDERELLA MAN (2005)
The uplifting true story of depression-era boxer James J. Braddock’s comeback was captured by Ron Howard with Russell Crowe in the lead role.
In the 1930’s former prize fighter Braddock was much like the rest of the American populace. He had no money, no luck, and seemingly no way to pull his family out of poverty.
Eventually, his love for his family and honour prompted him to dream the impossible dream, and success was to come his way.
THE FIGHTER (2011)
The Fighter is the inspirational true story of two boxing legends. Dicky Ecklund (Christian Bale) is a former boxing legend whose life has become shattered by drug abuse whilst Micky Ward (Mark Wahlberg), his half brother, has become the town's fighter and fading hope for a champion.
But with Micky losing fight after punishing fight, it takes iron-willed Charlene (Amy Adams), to help him split with his family, pursue his own interests and train without his criminal brother.
The Fighter is released nationwide on February 2