Here I Go Again

Rating: 8/10 (23 January 2011)

A 'stepping stone' boxer (Wahlberg) must step out of the shadow of his controlling lower socio-economic family whose influence threaten to squander his talents before he can prove to the world that he's a true contender. His older brother and mentor (Bale) is a crack-addict and former boxer who famously knocked down Sugar Ray Leonard in his only memorable bout some dozen years earlier; unfortunately, it's his erratic criminal behaviour that hinder Wahlberg's ascendance to the achievements his brother never attained.
Marky Mark shows us again why he's a contender in the thespian lounge, not overshadowed by Bale's tormented soul, a minor hero in his working class community, now ravaged by crack addiction. Adams (as Wahlberg's feisty girlfriend) is a revelation - and despite her age (36 at the time), she has the looks and figure of someone ten years younger (can I say wow?). Lucky guy indeed to have her in his corner. Leo and McGee are also notable as Micky's step mom and dad each with their own brand of support for their respective children (a colourful brood).
The focus on the effects of drug addiction dwarfs any ugliness that is inherent in the boxing industry; the lifestyle and its 'trappings' are depicted as anything but glamorous. Desperately sad at times, there are moments of humour, suspense and acute violence and the overall result is both satisfying and resonating (soundtrack too earns marks; particularly Whitesnake and Hall & Oates). Bale would surely attract award notice for his portrayal of an endearing, yet painfully tragic figure who despite talent and potential, found only failure in his success. His brother's triumph is his chance at redemption, and most who see this film would surely be in his corner. Highly recommended.