| Overall Grade: |
A+ |
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| Story: |
B+ |
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| Acting: |
A+ |
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| Direction: |
A+ |
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| Visuals: |
A+ |
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Talent, talent, talent
by sk (movies profile)
May 25, 2007
128
of
146 people found this review helpful
A true piece of entertainment worthy of the big screen experience!
Considering this story's ending was known, that the *cinderella* story has perhaps been one of the most overdone in cinema history and that I abhor boxing, the success of this movie on so many levels is a testament to the true talent of the people involved.
At a Sneak Preview on Sunday night, an age and gender mixed, totally packed house in my local theater actually CHEERED outloud during and after this film. (Not an ordinary occurance!!)
The Cinematography magnificently took those of us too young to remember the Depression as anything but stories from grandparents accompanying black and white still photos from old Life Magazines into a world of true human desperation that cuts to the gut.
Howard and Co just simply make very good movies and this one, with the ultimately superb portrayal of Jim Braddock by Russell Crowe (do they get ANY better than this actor? I sincerely doubt it. He is amazing here.) skyrockets into my top ten list of all time. Not an easy feat considering (have I mentioned??? ) my utter hatred for boxing.
It's appealing to women, to men and yes, even to young adults.(and not a light saber or a grandiose CGI moment in sight.) There is enough here for everyone to enjoy AND take home a message. A powerful message as well.
Beautifully told and presented.
Giamatti is inspired. ALL the supporting characters raised the bar on this one. And where they could have crossed the line into stereotype, they beautifully skirted the issue and turned to skill to make this a heart and mind grabber.
The story of Braddock, and this movie, above all else are a celebration of decency and grace in the face of demoralizing and spirit-squashing obstacles. It's a reminder of the important things in life, and the distances the human heart will go to protect what they love the most.
It's another chance for the theater going audience to support skill, talent and just grand storytelling on a very genuine and human level.
A+. |
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