****

Rating: 10/10 (13 July 2016)

An outstanding film with Jake Gyllenhaal giving a superb performance as a boxer who makes it to the big-time only to lose his wife in a shooting tragedy that sends him pummeling literally. Losing his possessions and his daughter due to his recklessness, he soon realizes that a return to the ring is his only salvation in order to get his much maligned life back on track.
Even in success, before tragedy struck, as a product of orphanages, along with his wife Maureen, the Gyllenhall character is a difficult man to deal with, especially with his constant mouthing off in the most vulgar way.
The opening sequence showing a song being sung with the words mother ****** is disgusting, but you soon realize why this was placed in the film.
Forest Whitaker gives great support as the trainer Jake meets who works with him to establish his authority in the ring.
The film is a true gem.