What a Comeback!!!

Rating: 10/10 (14 July 2016)

Gyllenhall is a reliable performer. We can count on him giving his best. This means both the emotional and physical make up of his characters. This is what makes a film like "Nightcrawler" rise beyond its simple premise. He shone in several films before, but his turn in "Southpaw" has set up new marks, even for him.
The film follows a powerful boxing world champion who continues undefeated. His main source of support is his tough and beautiful wife, played convincingly by McAdams. He survives and succeeds as long as she's around because she's his emotional source of support, as well as a great manager who knows and understands his mercurial nature.
Unfortunately, a tragic turn of events leaves him widowed, and because of his temper he neglects himself and exposes his daughter to drugs and violence. This will place new demands on him. The question remains whether he will be able to conquer those challenges and regain control of his personal and professional career.
"Southpaw" introduces us to a tortured man whose life has been shaped by the worst of circumstances, who rises to the top, loses his ways, and finds new opportunities to fly again. Forrest Whitaker comes him to provide him with training and insight. He's a steady source of support; however, he has his own problems, and these might affect his dedication because both men are driven and sometimes unable to look around for circumstances that might affect the achievement of their goals.
Let it be said that most people in the audience will be pleased by the way the film unfolds as we see some exciting boxing pieces, realistic rather than stylized. Every punch is felt, every potential knock out takes our breath, and watching the winner take the prize is indeed an exhilarating experience. Add to that, strong emotional lines, and another great performance by Jake, and we have a fantastic film.