The Fighter

“The Fighter” stars Mark Wahlberg, Christian Bale, Melissa Leo and Amy Adams in this exciting and deeply moving story of a blue collar family seeking to rise above its economic level through the boxing profession. Based on the true story of “Irish” Micky Ward, his half brother Dick Eklund, played by Messrs. Wahlberg and Bale, respectively, these two actors dominate the screen and give meaning and life to their Lenox, Mass. story. Thanks in no small part to director David O. Russell, there isn’t a mediocre or negative performance by any actor in the film. Looking back, however, one must tip his or her critic’s hat to the extraordinary performance of Christian Bale who becomes someone you would never thought he could either be or portray. He is convincing and real and gives the stellar performance of his career. Kudos to Amy Adams who, playing outside her normal casting role, becomes a barmaid suitable to the surroundings and the relationships with her blue collar customers. Melissa Leo is also about as genuine in her role as you could want and adds much to the movie. There are those who, like a Pavlovian response, will say “I don’t like boxing pictures”. Don’t fall prey to this trap. Boxing is a means for the picture to allow us the opportunity to view and experience the trials and tribulations of this lower class family and how two brothers cope not only with life’s setbacks but their own personal demons as well. That being said, one must also acknowledge the drama and action-filled fight scenes as the audience is caught up in the bouts shown on the screen with almost the same involvement and intensity as if each viewer was seated at ringside. I give this film 3 and ½ stars for it truly accomplishes the goal of any good theatrical experience.……it entertains.