Boxing movies are always popular when they come out – which is why they have long been a staple of the cinema culture. The best boxing movies know how to capture the raw intensity, triumphs, and struggles of the sport – all magically brought to life on the silver screen. From the bloodthirstiness of the boxing ring action to the inspiring personal stories of everyone involved, these films can be pretty emotional.
Here, we take a look at some of the very best boxing movies ever made, each one of these creating an atmosphere and bringing the raw emotion in the most unforgettable way.
Raging Bull – 1980
Directed by the icon that is Martin Scorsese, Raging Bull is considered by many to be one of the greatest films ever made – and not just the best boxing movie. Starring Robert De Niro as boxer Jake LaMotta, the film is very much a character study that takes us into the depths of LaMotta’s personal demons – as well as looking at his skills inside the square circle.
Its superb black-and-white cinematography, along with De Niro’s awe-inspiring performance, creates an unforgettable and haunting portrayal of a man who is constantly fighting his self-destructive tendencies.
Rocky – 1976
There couldn’t be any doubt that somewhere on this list, we’d have to mention Rocky, arguably one of the most iconic boxing films ever, with, quite probably, one of the most motivating soundtracks in the world.
Written by and starring Sylvester Stallone, this film is what we all love – an underdog story. It encourages us to have a little bit of faith when we place our boxing bets online that sometimes miracles can happen… with heart, soul – and a touch of Hollywood miracle.
Rocky Balboa, a small-time boxer, is given a shot at the world heavyweight championship – and he may not win, but he certainly gives Apollo Creed something to think about by holding him to a draw (and, of course, winning the rematch in Rocky II). Directed by John G. Avildsen, Rocky has become a cultural phenomenon, winning three Oscars, including Best Picture. The film’s training montage set to the iconic tune Gonna Fly Now has gone down in cinematic history – and is a tune that athletes train to even to this day.
Million Dollar Baby – 2004
This tearjerker was directed by Clint Eastwood and is a poignant and highly emotional boxing drama that is all about commitment, mentorship, sacrifice, and following your dreams. Regularly featured on Amazon Prime and starring the brilliant Hilary Swank as Maggie Fitzgerald, a determined female boxer, and Clint Eastwood as her grumpy and world-worn trainer, the film ends up taking an unexpected turn that makes it stand out from many other boxing movies.
Million Dollar Baby was a massive success with audiences and the Academy – and won four Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Director.
The Fighter – 2010
Next, we have The Fighter, directed by David O. Russell, which is a biographical movie all about the very complex and difficult life and career of professional boxer Micky Ward, played by Mark Wahlberg. The film looks at the dynamics of his family, loyalty, and how far you have to go to pursue success in the world of boxing.
Christian Bale, having lost a lot of weight for the role, gave an Oscar-winning performance as Micky’s half-brother, Dicky Eklund. This movie perfectly blends dark and gritty realism with a bit of humour and a lot of heart.
Ali – 2001
There is no fighter that is more legendary than Muhammed Ali, who floats like a butterfly and stings like a bee. This movie, directed by Michael Mann, is a biographical film about this legend of the ring, perfectly portrayed by Will Smith.
The film looks at important periods of Ali’s life – from his early career and his conversion to Islam to the consequences of his refusal to serve in the Vietnam War and then his incredible comeback. Will Smith’s brilliant performance perfectly captures Ali’s charisma, sheer athleticism, and fighting spirit. In fact, the film earned Will Smith an Oscar nomination for Best Actor and is still considered a great tribute to one of sport’s greatest icons.
As you can see, there are some incredible boxing movies – each and every one having been a hit with audiences and with the Academy, earning nominations and wins for directors, producers and actors. Full of grit, heart and hope, boxing movies will undoubtedly be big hitters for many years to come.
