Cinderella Man was everything I thought it would be. This is a brilliant movie that you all should see as soon as possible. Ron Howard sure knows how to make a film. The story is incredible, and the best part is, it's all true. If you don't know the story, don't research it until after you've seen the movie; the suspense and anticipation is far greater that way.
Russell Crowe was wonderful as boxer James J. Braddock. His portrayal of this man was so real and vulnerable that you could hear audible sniffles from probably both sexes viewing the movie. This movie speaks to everyone about overcoming obstacles and not staying down when you're hit. I plan on seeing this at least once more in the theaters and buying the soundtrack at the first opportunity.
Aside from the movie itself, there are some other wonderful reasons to see the film. I saw an interview with Mr. Crowe in which he said that this film shows the reason why this country is so great: because it's built on the backs of hardworking men/people who love their family and don't give up. He really lauded the people in America and our legacy. For that alone, I'll see the movie more than once. And the other reason to see it is that Jim Braddock, in real life, was a truly amazing person who gave back to his community, his country and would do anything for his family. I've read a great deal about him and am highly impressed by his character.
All that to say, see the film. Don't take little ones, the boxing violence is enough to keep me on the edge of my seat and there is a lot of swearing (though you really don't notice because it's only during incredibly intense matches). You won't regret it. In fact, you'll most likely be inspired and uplifted by it.
I used to do this thing called Friday Spoilers where I made fun of movies for people so awful, or having a horrible premise. Or staring Vin Diesel.
All in all, I like your way a little better.
Posted by: MacStansbury at June 6, 2005 02:25 PMIt's interesting that you liked it despite the portrayal of the New Deal as a needful response to the Depression. Don't you feel that unemployment and poverty are indivuals' own fault?
Posted by: ziggy at June 12, 2005 12:09 PMYour comments have nothing to do with mine, Ziggy. I loved the story, and no, the Depression was not the fault of people like Jim Braddock. I don't know where you got that or really, what you're talking about. The movie didn't address anything like that anyway; the focus was on Braddock and his family.
Posted by: Portia at June 12, 2005 02:16 PMwell, great. now I'm going to have to see this just to see if it's got some kind of liberal FDR-loving slant.
and cuss words. I'm all about the cuss words.
Posted by: MacStansbury at June 13, 2005 12:24 PM