Cinderella Man is the touching story of down-an-out boxer, James Braddock (Russel Crowe), as he fights hardship to keep his family together during The Depression.

Rating: 10/10 (28 April 2017)

This film is a heart-warming story of one man's relentless struggle to succeed. Jimmy's determination makes it possible for him to overcome the odds and go on to be a champion in the ring. This film shows us that even when things appear hopeless, nothing is impossible! Cinderella Man is reminiscent of the iconic Rocky film series. In these films, we root for the under-dog, hoping he will defeat his arrogant and deadly opponent. As viewer's, we develop an emotional connection to these characters and their families. We fear for their safety and want desperately for these fighters to be victorious. Jimmy and Rocky are resilient in their battles and neither give up hope as they both show great determination in the face of adversity. The lighting techniques used in Cinderella Man are very natural. In certain parts of this film, the lighting reflects the despair of The Depression. These scenes are dark and dreary, projecting the emotions of a poverty-stricken family as they struggle to stay together. Bright bursts of camera flashes are also used during the film. This technique added to the realism and excitement of these scenes. During the fight with Max Baer (Craig Bierko), different angles of shots help to tell the story. Close-up shots are used to show the emotions of Jimmy and Max. This angle is also used to show the injuries that are being inflicted on each man during the fight. Wide-angle shots are used to show the action of the fight in greater detail and to show the enormity of the crowd. This allows the viewer to feel like he or she is a part of this event. A subjective point of view is used during the fight as well. This gives the viewer a chance to see the fight from Jimmy's perspective. After the fight, Jimmy is lifted above the rest of the crowd with the light shining brightly on him. The angle expresses Jimmy's superiority over Max. The light symbolizes his win and the end of the Braddock family's struggles. Cinderella Man reminds viewers that no matter how difficult times may be, nothing is impossible. Even though things seemed hopeless for the Braddock family, Jimmy's determination made it possible for him to overcome hardship and become a world champ!