Breathtaking Film!

Rating: 10/10 (6 June 2011)

Where to begin? As a huge boxing fan I know more about boxers than most boxing historians themselves. I had already read the book before watching the film and knew who James J Braddock was. Russell Crowe being my favorite actor, I knew this film was a must see. The first time I cried and even to this day the scenes, the music the whole way Russell Crowe makes me believe he is James J Braddock makes the hairs on my neck stand up. Paul Giamatti was so convincing and passionate in the film that he brought the trainer role to life as the best boxing trainer I've ever seen on film. Craig Bierko was an astonishing in how much his appearance, swagger and accent resembled the real max. The accents in the film were all generally very accurate of the 1930s New Jersey type. Renee Zellwegger was cracking as I felt the connection between the 2 was terrifyingly vivid. Overall a masterpiece of a film, brilliantly directed and great choice of cast.