The Fighter (2010)

Based on a true story, The Fighter tells the story of Micky Ward, a small time boxer in the 1980's whose career has always been overshadowed by that of his brother, Dicky. When the chance comes to revive his flagging career he faces some tough decisions regarding family and success.

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For all the familiarity that the underdog sports story holds inherent, it is one of The Fighter's biggest strengths that it feels fresh and new. Director David O Russell is a tough one to pin down stylistically, from the bizarre existential comedy of I Heart Huckabees, to the powerful war commentary in Three Kings he has always flirted with the edges of the mainstream. Here he brings a documentary authenticity and grittiness to Micky's story ably assisted by a cast that gives top notch performances across the board. Mark Wahlberg is someone that blows very hot and cold, but in this his third film with O'Russell he impresses, imbuing Mickey with his trademark quiet compassion, he plays decent better than most actors, his openness a window through which the events of the film unfold. The stand out performance though has to be Christian Bale as Dicky, his drug addict former boxer brother. Taking the role as Micky's trainer he is a bundle of raw energy, a tragic figure fixated on his claim to fame (that he once knocked down Sugar Ray) and an eternal headache for the family. What is so impressive about Bale's performance is how true it rings, he brings Mickey to life not as a caricature, but as someone recognisable. A man of weakness who fails to see the impact his lifestyle has on others. It is a heartbreaking turn at times, but never showy. 

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Amy Adams plays Charlene, a local bar girl who Micky starts to date, and whose involvement in his career drives further wedges between him and his family, specifically his six sisters who present a formidable force. Adams is as good as ever here, showing a wonderfully trashy side that convinces. Charlene gives as good as she gets, but she also makes you understand why she would be drawn to Micky. Often when actresses dress down in this way it feels like a performance, here though like everything in the film, it feels genuine and true.

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Despite the film being technically a sports film, the boxing takes a backseat to the character drama, and wisely so. This is a nicely small scale film and treats its subject matter with respect, but not reverence. These characters are not saints, they are flawed, jealous and hurtful at times, but they are also family and it is this bond that connects them and that Russell wisely focuses on.

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I was extremely impressed with the film, it stands as one of my absolute favourites from last year. Everything about it just works, it feels effortless and has that pull of a great story, perfectly told. Despite it using a potentially tired format, the film never feels predictable and always undercuts the emotion just right, to the point that it left me with a big smile afterwards, and a lot to think about. A perfect storm of cast, director and story this is a film that you should check out, regardless of your interest in boxing. It is a human film. An honest snapshot of a remarkable story.