The age-old sport of boxing has been a source of entertainment for centuries, captivating audiences with tales of courage, endurance and glory. Throughout its history, it has also been the basis for many memorable movies, forming an impressive catalogue of boxing-based movies. Here are some of the best boxing movies of all time.
Rocky
One of the most popular and enduring boxing movie franchises, Rocky is the story of a small-time boxer from Philadelphia as he goes from obscurity to stardom as he takes on the champion, Apollo Creed. Rocky is seen as iconic in the sport and really set the tone for what was to come in boxing movies.
Million Dollar Baby
Million Dollar Baby is the story of an underdog boxer, Maggie Fitzgerald, who is trained by Clint Eastwood’s character, Frankie Dunn. The movie is one of the most critically acclaimed sports movies in history, winning every major award on offer and providing a narrative that made it relatable and accessible to audiences.
Raging Bull
Raging Bull is the story of a real life boxer, Jake LaMotta, as he overcomes his demons to become an iconic and dominant figure in the ring. The movie is an invaluable look into the mind of a boxer and remains one of the most important movies in the genre.
The Fighter
The Fighter is based on the story of a real-life boxer from Massachusetts, Mickey Ward, who achieved success with the help of his half-brother, Dicky Eklund. The movie provides an inspiring story of how a boxer can stay positive and fight against adversity in order to become a champion.
Cinderella Man
Cinderella Man is based on the true story of a Depression-era boxer, James J. Braddock, who manages to overcome poverty and knock out the heavyweight champion of the world. This movie was a box-office hit and was well-received by critics and audiences alike.
The Hustler
The Hustler is a classic boxing movie starring Paul Newman as ‘Fast’ Eddie Felson, a pool hustler who rises to the top of the boxing world. This movie is a classic and was nominated for nine academy awards, and has inspired generations of boxers and fans of the sport.
Rocky Balboa
Rocky Balboa is the sixth installment in the Rocky franchise and is an inspiring story of the iconic character’s struggles against his inner demons. This movie was hailed by critics and received acclaim for its inspiring story and its effective use of the Rocky character.
Creed
Creed is the seventh installment in the Rocky franchise and is the story of Apollo Creed’s son, Adonis Johnson, as he strives to make a name for himself in the boxing world. The movie was extremely well-received, with many praising the performance of Michael B. Jordan as Adonis.
The Fighter
The Fighter is a biopic about Micky Ward, a boxer from Lowell, Massachusetts who defeats the world welterweight champion, Arturo Gatti. The movie was based on his inspiring true story, and stars Mark Wahlberg, Christian Bale and Amy Adams in the lead roles.
Real Steel
Real Steel is a science-fiction boxing movie which stars Hugh Jackman, Evangeline Lilly and Dakota Goyo as ex-boxer “Charlie Kenton,” who helps his son find dignity and pride as a boxer. The movie was a huge success, with audiences and critics alike praising its inspiring storyline.
Girlfight
Girlfight is a critically-acclaimed boxing movie starring Michelle Rodriguez as Diana Guzman, a troubled teenager who decides to become a boxer. The movie was a huge success and was praised for its inspiring story and its exploration of self-confidence and gender roles.
Boxing movies have been around for a long time and have provided an inspiring and riveting source of entertainment for audiences all over the world. These movies have helped to celebrate the sport and its athletes, whilst also providing a unique take on the human spirit and its capacity for courage and resilience. The movies listed above are some of the best that the genre has to offer and are sure to provide audiences with an entertaining and inspiring viewing experience.
