Cinderella Man (2005)

It’s the early 1930’s in New York and Jim Braddock (Russell Crowe) is an upcoming boxer with a young family. The Braddocks live in a beautiful house and are just starting to make a lot of money when disaster strikes in the form of the American Depression of the 1930's. Jim Braddock struggles against crippling poverty to support his wife and three young children in the harsh, bleak era...

Directed by Ron Howard, this film is based on the true story of legendary boxer Jim Braddock.  Born of Irish parents in New Jersey, Braddock starts to do well in the boxing ring until his fortune changes and poverty strikes. The film really captures the bleakness and hardship of the American Depression and makes for compelling viewing as Braddock's struggle somehow becomes ours. This is a real against-the-odds struggle and the boxing, which is well shot, takes a back seat to the struggle that goes on outside the ring.

Crowe is outstanding in the part and ensures that the audience empathise with this real-life underdog, a family man, who is determined to provide for his family.

While Crowe might dominate the screen there are excellent performances from other members of the cast who create realistic characters. In particular Renée Zellwegger as Braddock wife Mae, Paul Giamatti as Braddock's boxing manager Joe, and Craig Bierko as Max Baer, World Boxing Champion.

Lasting Thought: ... people die in fairytales all the time...

Bottom Line: Don't miss this one! A fantastic film about a real underdog who struggles with fierce determination and spirit to get back on his feet. Superb acting all round.

If you enjoyed Cinderella Man you may also enjoy Seabiscuit and Million Dollar Baby.

Reviewed by Sharon Swift, Premier Movie Reviews 2005.

RELATED MOVIE REVIEWS:

RON HOWARD: A Beautiful Mind,  The Grinch,  The Missing.  RUSSELL CROWE: A Beautiful Mind,  Master and Commander,  Proof Of Life.  RENÉE ZELLWEGER: Bridget Jones's Diary,  Bridget Jones: The Edge Of Reason,  Chicago,  Cold Mountain,  Me Myself and Irene.  PAUL GIAMATTI: Pay Check.  PADDY CONSIDINE: In America.

Genre: Drama

Director: Ron Howard

Certificate: Cinderella Man was rated 15A by the Irish Film Censor's Office (www.ifco.ie) i.e. suitable for those of 15 years of age or upwards. Persons under 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Violence = strong. Drugs = none. Sex/Nudity = mild. Language = mild.

Official Movie Website: Cinderella Man

~ Main Cast ~

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Russell Crowe

Renée Zellweger

Paul Giamatti

Craig Bierko

Paddy Considine