'The Fighter'
Micky Ward ( Mark Wahlberg), a boxer from Massachusetts, follows in his famous brother Dickys ( Christian Bale) footsteps in this true story about a struggling family. Dickys boxing success plummeted after losing a fight to Sugar Ray Leonard, and drug abuse and trouble with the law followed. Now Micky has the chance to return the family to glory. Oscar potential: The Fighter is the underdog story of the year. With the success of last years The Blind Side, the film will likely do well on nomination morning. Critics are applauding the performances of Wahlberg and Bale as well as Amy Adams (Mickys girlfriend) and Melissa Leo (the boys mother). David O. Russell faces the stiffest competition in the directing and best picture categories. Review: Times' critic Kenneth Turan says "As things start to fall into place, The Fighters inevitable classic finale is especially satisfying because of how long and bruising a path Micky Ward and this film have taken to get there." Read the entire review.
Jojo Whilden
Copyright
© 2018, Los Angeles Times