Cinderella Crowe.

Rating: 9/10 (19 June 2015)

Cinderella Man (2005): Dir: Ron Howard / Cast: Russell Crowe, Renee Zellweger, Paul Giamatti, Craig Bierko, Bruce McGill: A rags to riches story regarding boxer James Braddock during the depression. After an injured hand he struggles to provide for his family but when a fighter cancels out he is given a one shot deal that ends with his comeback. This story has been done countless times since Rocky but when done right, as in the case here, we still cheer the results. Director Ron Howard previously worked with Russell Crowe in A Beautiful Mind. This is another successful collaboration. Howard concentrates more on the family issue, which allows this film to excel. Crowe embodies the role of Braddock who goes from struggling husband to successful boxer but his championship is no surprise. Renee Zellweger is wonderful as his wife who sticks by despite harsh times. Her decision not to attend the climatic bout is no surprise. Paul Giamatti steals scenes as Braddock's manager who is also suffering the affect of the employment situation. Craig Bierko plays boxer Max Baer who killed two fighters. He taunts Braddock's family but his fate is obvious. This can go down as one of the great boxing films with exciting ring action. Although we know the formula, the theme regards the underdog and the ability to rise above uncertain circumstances. Score: 9 / 10