Review - The Fighter

Not a fan of boxing? Tired of the typical "come from behind" story of so many manufactured Hollywood movies? Well, don't worry; this movie is none of those things. Well, not really. This movie is really about family - crazy, mixed up, in your business, highly opinionated family. This is our second offering of a toxic family environment (the first being the great Australian offering, Animal Kingdom). Based on the true story of two brothers from Lowell, MA, The Fighter documents the struggles of an ex fighter/turned boxing trainer, living with addiction, and his little brother who has a chance at the title but is held back by his overbearing and very large family. Christian Bale and Melissa Leo deliver stunning performances as the crack addict and the domineering "no more wire hangers" mother, respectively. After each scene they play, you will be left with your mouth hanging wide open in astonishment; they deliver Oscar worthy performances. The entire casting is great, but the ensemble award should go to the crazy sisters of the fighters - I kid you not. Talk about bad hair and no ambition. This gaggle of girls swear too much, drink too much, smoke too much and provide so much comic relief. Every scene with those girls scares me; I think I recognize some of them from my own New England upbringing!

Go see The Fighter for the fantastic performances and terrific music soundtrack. And who knows, you may be saying to yourself "Gee, my family is not so bad!"

Rating: B+