The Fighter is TKO'D **1/2

Rating: 6/10 (31 January 2011)

Despite some very good acting performances, I found this picture to be disappointing. Besides the constant foul language, it turns out to be a modern-day like "Rocky" film with a totally dysfunctional, filthy mouthed family.
In a supporting role, Christian Bale, quite effective, is like a washed-up Rocky Balboa with a drug problem. Mark Wahlberg is his brother who is trying to get it together and become a winner in the ring,something that Bale was unable to do.
Melissa Leo, in an Oscar nominated performance, steals the film as the common mother, with her abusive language, constant smoking, but love of family. She is almost equally matched by Amy Adams. Adams sheds her film roles as free spirit or nun, as the foul-mouthed college drop-out girlfriend of Wahlberg.
The film shows that despite the conflicts between these two ladies, who really know how to use profanity in style, all comes together for Wahlberg's opportunity for the title. Wahlberg, who surprisingly, was not Oscar nominated, delivers a riveting performance.
Don't be surprised to see Bale and Leo walking down the red carpet on Oscar night. Poor Amy Adams. As in "Doubt," she is again facing a nominee in the same film.