The Braddock family in the Great Depresion

Rating: 8/10 (15 June 2005)

Ron Howard's latest film "Cinderella Man" probably miscalculated its release date. Being a serious film about a real incident in a not too glamorous era, the movie arrives in the middle of the summer releases that seem to be made for action packed adventures or thrillers that don't require much of the viewer. That said, "Cinderella Man" presents a vivid portrait of one of the worst times in American history: The Great Depression.
At the center of the story is James Bradock, a fighter that is seen at the beginning of the film with what appears an assured future. Then, the bad times that affected the country have a profound effect in the Braddock family. From living with a certain degree of comfort, they are relegated to eke out a living in order to survive.
James Braddock's work in the New Jersey's piers becomes scarce, as only a few men are employed at a time. Early on, in a fight, Jimmy breaks a hand that puts him to a disadvantage among the men working at hauling cargo in and out of ships. Fortunately, Mike Wilson, a decent man, also impoverished by the situation, gives him a hand whenever they are teamed together. This will be a friendship that will last forever.
At home, things go from bad to worse. Mae Braddock, the wife and mother of three children, tries to make do with whatever little she can lay her hands in. It's heart wrenching to watch her try to put food on the table, let alone something that might have any nourishment. Jimmy Braddock has to resort to get public assistance and even to beg from the people that congregate at a Madison Square Garden club.
James Braddock's true friend turns out to be Joe Gould, who would guide him back to a phenomenal comeback that establishes him as one of the great fighters of the times. Jim Braddock goes to fight the powerful Max Baer, a man that has been notorious for killing a couple of opponents in the ring.
The film is satisfying in spite of all the desolation and poverty one sees. Of course, it's evident we either never went through those bad times of the 30s, or have never been in Mr. Braddock's family position. In spite of all that is against them, the family made out well and even went to prosper, which says a lot for them. Above all, Mr. Braddock teaches us a lesson in how to keep his family united in spite of the rough times they were facing.
As James Braddock, Russell Crowe makes a fabulous contribution. He transforms himself into the fighter that has to face poverty in order to appreciate what came afterward as a reward. Renee Zellwegger is fine as the suffering Mae. Paul Giamatti makes a tremendous appearance as Joe Gould. Paddy Considine plays Mike Wilson, the man who helped Braddock resume his work in the docks by carrying an extra weight when his friend was obviously in pain.
The screen play by Cliff Hollinger and Akiva Goldsman takes an intelligent account of the era. Finally, Ron Howard scores a real winner with this film, that should be seen by more people because it presents a real portrait of a man that was genuine and loved his family.