Good Movie,

Rating: 7/10 (6 January 2011)

For acting, this movie is perfect, absolutely perfect. But as for content, I was disappointed. I was hoping to see more of Micky's life as a city worker for Lowell and his time in the ring, instead, the movie focused heavily on Charlene and the airing of "High on Crack Street". While these affected Micky in real life, they had no bearing on his career in the ring. And I was really hoping to see a close re-enactment of round 9 of Gatti/Ward I.
I have to say, Bale did an outstanding job of portraying Dickie, he will surely be winning awards for this part. He talks and acts just like Dickie. Compare Bale to the real Dickie in "High on Crack Street", you can find it in it's entirety on YouTube.
I realize not every minute detail can be crammed into a film, but I think the producers made a big mistake by leaving out Gatti/Ward I, it is the reason why Micky Ward is well-known in the boxing world. The Gatti bout was a opportunity that Micky got through a stroke of luck and it was the first time in his career he made good money as a fighter. Micky accepted the bout, fought--the ninth round would be called the "round of the century"--and won by decision. Think Rudy. It's a real-life, rags-to-riches success story... and they omitted the climax!
I recommend people look up that fight and "High on Crack Street", both are on YouTube.