I can't wait to see it again

Rating: 10/10 (30 May 2005)

I saw a sneak preview last night and was blown away. This may be Ron Howard's best movie. I knew the story of Jim Braddock before I saw it, but I was still on the edge of my seat guessing the ending. Ron Howard has now done two films(Cinderella Man and Apollo 13) where the true life outcome is known by many. But somehow he keeps the tension.
The casting is flawless. Russell Crowe is more convincing as Jim Braddock than he was as Nash in A Beautiful Mind. Paul Giamatti is amazing as well. Even the actors that play the children were great. I haven't even mentioned Renee Zewelleger. I was afraid that she would go over the top like she did in Cold Mountain, but she nailed it.
I have never seen The Depression filmed better. Howard makes us feel The Depression, and it hurts. To see what Jim Braddock had to go through to get the film conclusion is gut wrenching. The only negative about the movie is subplot about a relationship that JIm has with a co-worker on the Jersey docks.
This might be the best sports movie I have ever seen...and its much more than just a sports movie.