The film does best in its documentary and drama modes. Though the Method acting is a bit self-conscious, Bale does steal many scenes in the beginning of the film with his Boston attitude and sunken eyes. Adams does a laudable job as a sexy, underachieving bartender. Wahlberg puts in a good performance, even if it's not much of a stretch of his talents.
The film does its worst as Irish comedy and as a contender in a long and rich history of boxing cinema. There is one scene in particular where the director, David O. Russell, makes some cheap shots. The estrogen battle zone that makes up the Ward household (Alice and the seven half-sisters) decide to confront Charlene. They show-up at her door and tumble out of a small Chrysler like it's a clown-car. It looks like Russell just instructed the actresses to point and blabber aimlessly for laughs.
The film beats itself up. Some scenes enter slow and calculated in an indie-documentary style. Others open with fists flying, like some melodramatic, Irish-tinged comedy. And others dance around the ring, like a typical sports film.
As for fight scenes, there are a few moments that show off the spectacle of boxing, 80s style, like one where Dicky and Micky are waiting to enter the arena for the title shot with hair band anthems blasting. But, you don't feel that suspense or love of the sport when the camera is in the ring, like you do in "Raging Bull" or "Rocky". It's as if some scenes can just muscle through until the bell, including most of the ring scenes as well as Dickie's withdrawal montage.
Since "The Fighter" is based on the life of the real Micky Ward, the film ends as it must. No upset or KO. Call it a draw.
| Movie title | The Fighter |
|---|---|
| Release year | 2010 |
| MPAA Rating | R |
| Our rating | |
| Summary | Like two well-matched pugilists, this boxing pic's strengths and weaknesses wear each other down. |
