What. A. Punch.

Rating: 10/10 (29 August 2015)

Antoine Fuqua's 'Southpaw' is electrifying stuff! It rides very high on emotions & pure drama. It sure is predictable & takes a route we've seen before, but the treatment & the performances, make this recent release a film to reckon with.
'Southpaw' Synopsis: Boxer Billy Hope turns to trainer Tick Willis to help him get his life back on track after losing his wife in a tragic accident and his daughter to child protection services.
I Loved 'Southpaw'. Its a tale with a soul. It isn't pointlessly mellow or overtly sensitive. This isn't just a story about a man, its about a husband, a father, a friend & a boxer. It captures the struggle & dedication of its protagonist & how he bounces back when life knocks him out. Its Modern-Day Rocky, with a more violent touch.
Kurt Sutter's Screenplay is inspiring & thoroughly engaging. I never disconnected with the story, I was involved & moved by it. Fuqua's Direction is razor-sharp. 'Southpaw' is among his best works to date. Cinematography is well-done. Editing is finely done. The Choerography of the Boxing-Fights is very good. The Late/Great James Horner's Score is perfect.
Performance-Wise: Jake Gyllenhaal is the heart & soul of 'Southpaw'. The immensely talented & fearless actor transforms himself (his physique is wow) & emotes remarkably. After sterling performances in Nightcrawler & Enemy recently, Gyllenhaal triumphs yet again! He reminded me of a younger Stallone & that's saying a lot. Forest Whitaker is another topper. Though he enters the scene pretty late, the acting giant dominates the screen, while complementing Gyllenhaal at every step. Rachel McAdams is affecting & beautiful in a brief role. Oona Laurence is outstanding; Its a powerhouse performance. Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson & Naomie Harris are decent.
On the whole, 'Southpaw' will leave you pumped, by its sheer energy & power. Very Strongly Recommended!