The Fighter

Mark Wahlberg, Christian Bale and Amy Adams star in this "based on a true story" film about boxer Micky Ward.  Micky's been living in his brother Dicky's shadow all his life. He learned everything he knew about boxing from Dicky, who honestly is not as good as he thinks he is.  In fact, he's even thrown away his any chance of a career by turning to crack.  He never shows up on time to train Micky and puts himself ahead of Micky in everything they do.  Regardless of this, Micky remains dedicated to his brother even against his father's and his girlfriend's opinions.  When the documentary on his brother airs, everyone is awaken to the fact of Dicky's problem, giving Micky a punch in the face to get his life together.  Micky begins a path towards success, but all is not resolved until his brother too becomes clean and recognizes that Micky needs him, and everyone he loves around him.

The Fighter does a good job portraying the real and raw life of Micky and his family.  Not familiar with the true story, the script itself is well written with twists and turns, building up to the final fight (onscreen) and beyond so that viewers who are not boxing fans become engaged and cheer Micky on.  The performances of the cast only enhance the story. Christian Bale is outstanding playing the junkie Dicky. His big personality and character arc though overshadows Mark Wahlberg when the two are together. Melissa Leo is fantastic as Alice, bringing out the worst of the character. Well directed and worthy of the Oscar nominations.

4/5