Possibly Clint's best film as a director

Rating: 8/10 (2 February 2016)

"Million Dollar Baby", the Best Picture Oscar winner for 2004, was the second of Clint Eastwood's directorial efforts to claim that prize, the first being "Unforgiven". Here, the story concerns a raw but determined female boxer (Hilary Swank) who seeks the aid of a grizzled trainer (Eastwood) in her quest to become a professional.
At first glance, "Million Dollar Baby" appears to conform to the standard template for an underdog sports movie; not that there's anything wrong with that. In fact, within those parameters, the movie holds its own against the classics of the genre. However, what elevates the movie to another level is the dramatic heft of the unexpected final act. I'm reluctant to divulge any details about the territory that the movie finds itself in but I can say that the story is ultimately satisfying on multiple levels.
As compelling as the story turns out to be, the cast is just as good. Living legends Clint Eastwood & Morgan Freeman shared the screen once again here, reuniting the duo that made "Unforgiven" so memorable. They were joined by Oscar winner Hilary Swank, soon to nab another (well deserved) statuette for her work here. Speaking of Oscars, Morgan Freeman finally managed to win one for his wonderfully understated performance and distinctive narration. The movie also offers early glimpses of Jay Baruchel, Anthony Mackie & Michael Peña, not to mention a memorable turn from the always dependable Margo Martindale.
Eastwood's direction isn't too flashy but that suits the movie just fine. The attractive cinematography also supports the film's realistic look. Yet another key piece in the puzzle is the restrained yet affecting score, surprisingly penned by Eastwood himself.
All in all, "Million Dollar Baby" was a deserving Best Picture Oscar winner that still endures today as a modern classic. Not just a sports movie, the story defies expectations and successfully tackles some tricky subject matter. My only reservation is that the movie has an old-fashioned feel from time to time but that's really part of Eastwood's style and not worth dwelling on considering all of the things that the movie excels at.