The Fighter Review

The Fighter Review

Cast: Mark Wahlberg, Christian Bale, Melissa Leo, Amy Adams
Director: David O. Russel
Genre: Drama, Action, Sport
Rated: MA
Running Time: 116 minutes

Synopsis: A look at the early years of boxer "Irish" Micky Ward and his brother who helped train him before going pro in the mid 1980s.

Verdict: The Fighter isn't just a film about boxing, it is the powerful portrayal of family and the strong impact it has. The movie begins in 1993 when Micky (Mark Wahlberg) is training to become a serious boxer whilst his half-brother and trainer Dicky (Christian Bale) is talking of a comeback complete with a HBO documentary. It is obvious to audiences that without Dicky's dedication as a trainer Micky won't be able to achieve his boxing dreams. Alice (Melissa Leo) the boy's strong-headed mother is sure that Dicky, her golden child, will be able to train Micky to win his next couple of matches but Dicky's dedication to his brother does not outweigh his addiction to crack.

Whilst it is easy to relate to Mark Wahlberg's character of Mickey, Christian Bale totally outshines the entire cast as he transforms into his character of 'Dicky'; he thoroughly deserved his Golden Globe for 'Best Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture'.

Although, The Fighter does begin quite slowly, it is important audiences do not loose interest as The Fighter is a truly sensation film. The filming is amazing, audiences will be absorbed by the close ups including teeth-shattering punches and beads of sweat literally being smacked off boxer's faces.

Rating: *****

Brooke Hunter

Release Date: January 20, 2011

Christian Bale, Mark Wahlberg The Fighter: https://www.female.com.au/christian-bale-mark-wahlberg-the-fighter.htm