Wow – I was really impressed with The Fighter. This is a comeback movie on steroids with all the ingredients that a good drama should have. White trash life in the North East has never been better filmed. Struggles among family, struggles with drugs, balancing loyalties with doing what is right . This movie was very stirring. Watching the comebacks and triumphs of the Ward brothers was inspiring and made for a heck of a good story! The acting was top notch across the board and the filming highlighted the best, worst, and funniest aspects of the characters.
Christian Bale nearly stole the whole movie from Mark Wahlberg as the drug addicted brother who feigned greatness. His bizarre strung out behavior was perfectly done. Of course Mark was a steady solid performer – the strong and mostly silent type – like any good boxer. Charlene Fleming? All I can say is Wow! Potty mouthed and fiercely dedicated to her man, and nobody can stand in her way. Melissa Leo as Mickey’s mom was tremendously done, cigarette in mouth and self-absorbed. Can’t name them all, but Mickey’s band of sisters were a hoot to watch.
Maybe I’m being a bit overly generous with my rating, but all I can go on is the lump in throat and goose bump feelings I had as I experienced this film, not to mention the numerous LOL moments. . Enough drama and inspiring sports story to suit viewers of all types. Set in the backdrop of a perfectly done Massachusetts white-trash neighborhood. Well done.