- Film Review
- Reviewed By Damon Wise
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5 out of 5
For those who thought Unforgiven was the masterpiece of Clint Eastwood's autumn years, this sharp, moving and brutally bleak drama proves that he can bring the same grizzled genius to the sports arena. Adapted from Rope Burns, a book of short stories by FX Toole, it stars Eastwood as Frankie Dunn, a washed-up boxing coach whose fighters abandon him as soon as they hit the big time. Dumped by his latest slugger, Dunn reluctantly turns his attentions to Maggie Fitzgerald (Hilary Swank), a 31-year-old waitress who turns up at his gym begging for lessons. Dunn tutors Maggie to success, but then this otherwise standard underdog story takes a shocking turn in its final third that gives the movie an unexpected depth and immense power. Morgan Freeman is impressive as Dunn's crumpled sidekick, and Oscar winner Swank is terrific, too, but this is Clint's film, both as its tortured hero and as a great American director.
Plot Summary
Boxing drama starring Clint Eastwood, Hilary Swank and Morgan Freeman. A lonely, ageing trainer agrees to coach a poor waitress who comes to his gym. But, although they succeed in the boxing world, a twist of fate has repercussions for them both.
Cast and crew
Cast
- Frankie Dunn
- Clint Eastwood
- Maggie Fitzgerald
- Hilary Swank
- Eddie "Scrap-Iron" Dupris
- Morgan Freeman
- Shawrelle Berry
- Anthony Mackie
- Danger Barch
- Jay Baruchel
- Big Willie Little
- Mike Colter
- Billie "The Blue Bear"
- Lucia Rijker
- Father Horvak
- Brian O'Byrne
- Earline Fitzgerald
- Margo Martindale
- Mardell Fitzgerald
- Riki Lindhome
Crew
- Director
- Clint Eastwood
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