Great Story

Rating: Null/10 (28 February 2008)

Cinderella Man (2005)
**** (out of 4)
Russell Crowe gives the performance of his career as James Braddock, a boxer who loses it all during the Great Depression only to get one more chance inside the ring. While watching the film I couldn't believe Crowe didn't get an Oscar nomination but then it reminded me of everyone who did this year. Which, in return, got me thinking how weak roles are for women. Every year there's always one woman who can walk away with the prize but when it comes time to the men you've got five people who didn't get nominated that could have won. Anyway, this is certainly the best film of director Ron Howard's career since we've seen this story so many times before yet he keeps it fresh and interesting down to the final fight. The scene where Crowe has to beg for money from the boxing commission is the best work he's ever done and heartbreaking work from Crowe. Paul Giamatti is very good in his role and Renee Zellweger is good as well even though her role really isn't written very well.