great performances but above all an astounding Nick Nolte

Rating: Null/10 (7 November 2011)

It's much more than a fight-movie, the film structure is perfect due to the compelling performances and the perfect screenplay. I usually don't like this genre (too technical) but in this case even the fights showing violence and barbarity go beyond the stamina on the ring. The film is about family relationship but what is extraordinary is the lead actors ability to commit their bodies and souls to the roles. Everyone's tortured by the past and they play their parts with understatement, passion and grace. The finale – despite its violence – is astonishing. Nick Nolte would probably deserve an Academy Award as a father tormented by past mistakes.