Boxing may not be the most popular sport in the modern age compared to the 20th century, but Hollywood always holds a special affection for it. There’s something incredibly thrilling and captivating when two fighters face off against each other, embodying their living will and determination in the ring.
While there are many films that wonderfully document the boxing world, such as “When We Were Kings” and classic dramas like “On The Waterfront” and “The Quiet Man,” the list below will focus on the best boxing movies that feature electrifying action on screen.
10. Fat City (1972)
The famous star Jeff Bridges plays the role of a down-and-out boxer named Ernie Munger in “Fat City.” This film, based on the novel of the same name by Leonard Gardner, focuses on Munger’s struggle alongside a former boxer as he attempts to build a career for himself in California.
9. The Hurricane (1999)
We can’t overlook the intense scenes in “The Hurricane,” which recounts the true story of boxer Rubin “The Hurricane” Carter, who was wrongfully imprisoned for a triple murder. Oscar winner Denzel Washington portrays Carter, and despite criticism over its accuracy, Washington’s performance received widespread acclaim.
8. Gentleman Jim (1942)
Previously, boxing was a very different sport, especially before the legendary boxer James J. Corbett (played by Errol Flynn) began his career. The film revolves around Corbett’s battles with heavyweight champion John L. Sullivan (Ward Bond), offering insights into a time when boxing was considered an underground, illegal sport.
7. Creed (2015)
Though “Creed” may be considered “Rocky 7,” it stands as a completely fresh chapter in the long-running boxing film franchise. The story follows Adonis Creed (Michael B. Jordan), the son of Apollo Creed, as he seeks the guidance of aging Rocky Balboa, who trains him to forge his own path in boxing. This film garnered significant acclaim, helping Sylvester Stallone win an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor.
6. Requiem for a Heavyweight (1962)
One of the darker aspects of a boxing career is the physical and financial struggles that boxers face upon retiring. Released in 1962, this film showcases the life of aging boxer “Mountain” Rivera, played by Anthony Quinn, who grapples with the harsh realities of life after boxing.
5. The Fighter (2010)
“The Fighter” tells the story of the complex relationship between two boxing brothers, Micky Ward (Mark Wahlberg) and Dicky Eklund (Christian Bale). The film’s raw authenticity earned it significant success, with Bale and supporting actress Melissa Leo both receiving Oscars for their performances. Notably, Bale had to lose a considerable amount of weight to portray Eklund, a former addict.
4. Cinderella Man (2005)
Boxer James Braddock brought immense hope to the American people as he transitioned from being a blue-collar worker to a heavyweight champion during the Great Depression. “Cinderella Man,” directed by Ron Howard, features Russell Crowe as Braddock and Renée Zellweger as his wife, Mae Braddock, showcasing Braddock’s inspiring comeback story.
3. Million Dollar Baby (2004)
Not only does “Million Dollar Baby” highlight the struggles women face in boxing, but it also won the Oscar for Best Picture. The film, directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Hilary Swank and Morgan Freeman, revolves around the emotional journey of a female boxer, portraying a poignant narrative that resonates deeply with audiences.
2. Rocky (1976)
It’s impossible to think of boxing without mentioning Sylvester Stallone and “Rocky,” one of the most iconic boxing films of all time, which Stallone himself helped create. Although the sequels had their ups and downs, the original film’s portrayal of an underdog fighter striving for greatness captured the hearts of many. In reality, “Rocky” can also be seen as a love story, further drawing in audiences with its emotional depth.
1. Raging Bull (1980)
Director Martin Scorsese delivered a masterpiece with “Raging Bull,” which many critics believe is his best work. Robert De Niro stars as boxer Jake LaMotta, whose tumultuous life and career are depicted with raw intensity. The film’s black-and-white cinematography, combined with the powerful performances, has made “Raging Bull” a timeless classic and a definitive entry in boxing cinema history.
According to Trí Thức Trẻ
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