Beautiful, emotional, career best for Clint Eastwood

Rating: 8/10 (17 January 2005)

You've already heard it, but I'll say it again: don't make the mistake of thinking this is just another "Rocky" or "Karate Kid" underdog-with-a-crusty-mentor-comes-out-on-top story. Forget about how you think you feel about "boxing movies" and go see this one anyway. See it before you hear too much discussion about it (don't ruin the experience of finding out for yourself how the story goes), and see it with someone, for you'll be dying to discuss it afterward. It's not quite as "sappy" (in a good way) or outwardly romantic as Eastwood's "Bridges of Madison County" (which I also loved), but you'll leave the theater with the same feeling--tearful but inspired--and it will hover around you for days. I echo star Hilary Swank's comments during her Golden Globe win and say that Clint Eastwood gives the performance of his career, as well as perhaps his finest directing feat. One of the most absolutely beautiful, inspiring movies you'll ever see.