Instant Classic

Rating: 10/10 (14 June 2005)

This is much more than a boxing movie. Losing all his accumulated wealth in the stock market crash of 1929, rising young boxer James J. Braddock then endures a long run of injuries and adversity. His career hits bottom and his prospects are bleak before circumstances and his wily manager conspire to get him what is supposed to be a one-time fight. Ron Howard deserves the Oscar for best director with this true-life inspirational tale. Jim Braddock's comeback went against all odds, a victory over the cynicism and negative morale of the time. You will definitely feel good after seeing this one, the first great movie of the year.