Million Dollar Baby (2004)
Not the boxing film you evisioned.
Presentation:
Narrated by Morgan Freeman, the film feels similar in tone to popular dramas from the 90s like The Shawshank Redemption or something like The Bucket List. Clint Eastwood demonstrates marginally more acting range though still plays the typical grumpy steely-eyed man. His performance is good as he is balanced by an extremely charismatic and tenacious Hilary Swank, whom steals our hearts. She is absolutely endearing and forces you to root for her. The boxing scenes are not strong but are quickly forgotten because of the emotional story.
Analysis:
The film is intentionally frustrating for the wrong reasons. Clint Eastwood is more emotionally manipulative by forcing unreasonable tensions for the sake of dramatic conflict. Was it really necessary to bully the smaller boxers? Why is her family still trash she’s should obviously their pride? How the hell can the blue bear boxer exist with such flagrant fouls? There’s 0 chance she could realistically be a champion and she should have been disqualified and handed over the title. The fact they didn’t resolve this injustice was unsatisfying. Then she has to amputate her leg because no one is moving her body. Absurd, are there no nurses, or hello, was her coach not by her side the entire time? Her daughter’s estranged relationship was not explained, but I think this ambiguity was a good choice as to not distract between their relationship, and also allows us to fill in our own experiences. The ethical euthanasia turn was a bit excessive. Still a great film as long as you don’t take this popcorn drama too seriously!
Conclusion:
There are many bones I could pick with this film, but I found it enjoyable regardless. I’d argue the plotholes are not relevant in a film like this, which focuses more on character dynamics and relationships. If you agree, this will be a compelling and emotional film. If you are more serious about writing, you could consider this a bad film for its unrealistic logistics. I suppose that’s why modern films feel the need to flesh out every technical detail until the magic is gone. It’s more digestible when you consider this director came from decades of westerns. Why so serious!
Recommendations
Thematic literature enters the ring.