Bleed for This (2016)

User Review

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  TheMovieDiorama

  7 / 10

  Bleed For This follows the typical boxing drama formula, but if ain't broke don't fix it. I do love me a good sports drama, it's like watching the event live on television. I'm always sitting upright shouting "Go on! Get in there! Phwoarr!". And Bleed For This is no different. The incredible true story of Vinny Pazienza who, after a near fatal car accident, is unable to walk again let alone fight. However, through perseverance and determination he did just that. It takes many aspects from other modern boxing dramas. We have a hearty family full of sisters (The Fighter), an accident that causes a severe injury (Million Dollar Baby) and a sea of self-determination (Creed, Southpaw...the list goes on). Whilst admittedly those films are better as a whole, this is still an enjoyable film about battling through adversity. True story aside, the characters are brought to life by electrifying performances. Miles Teller transformed himself into the role. Aaron Eckhart played the coach role perfectly, with a subtle comedic undertone. The stand out, for me, was Ciaran Hinds who stole every scene. Pushing his son constantly to fight and then his character starts to develop and evokes empathy. I sympathised with him. Seeing your own flesh and blood getting punched to death at a risk he may lose his life, Hinds just looked on with fear! Extremely overlooked performance. Ben Younger's direction was solid throughout, however his screenplay was extremely inconsistent. Particularly during the second act where I felt disconnected with the story. Lacked emotion. The script just wasn't memorable or poignant enough for me to care. In saying that, Younger brings it back with the final boxing match which was electrifyingly powerful. Extremely well filmed with nice long shots! I felt every punch and was sold by Teller's physical performance. You could see the frustration in his eyes. All the pain he has been through, put into the match of his life. Brilliant. I just wished the second act was as resonating. Aside from that, a damn decent boxing drama.

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