Cinderella Man Movie Review

Movie Review

Cinderella Man  (2005)

5 out of 5 Stars

This is one of my absolute favorite movies. Starring so many wonderful actors and actresses like Russell Crowe, Renee Zellweger, and Paul Giamatti, Cinderella Man is the true story of the boxer James Braddock living during the Great Depression. I originally saw this movies years ago back in school and have loved it ever since. Not only does the plot move at an appropriate tempo, but it is moving itself and masterfully put together. I cannot speak for its accuracy from any sort of personal or second-hand experience, but I have heard from others that it paints a very good picture of what people had to endure and how they lived. It is a reminder that we are so incredibly lucky today with everything that we have. For those looking at the cover to the left and thinking girly movie, you could not be more wrong. There are mostly boxing scenes, moments when the characters show what people had to do to make ends meet and the different ways that people lived to keep up appearances if they could.

Not only does it bear an incredible story, but it is done so well. The actors' work was phenomenal and they interacted seamlessly with each other. I'm not sure if it had been nominated or had won any awards, but I definitely would not be surprised if it had. The setting and script were amazing too. One of the moments that sticks to me the most is when Braddock was being interview and one of them asks, What do you fight for now? And is reply is, Milk. There were times when he was going to stop, lose a fight. But then thinking about his family and how he could lose his children made him push through when he probably should have stopped. The layout of the movie is done well too, showing the true "Cinderella" part of the story. He started rich and famous, but then the Depression hit and things got bad quickly. An opportunity comes around though and James Braddock is able to pull himself out of his situation and live better. We get to see all of this, along with other information at the end.

The story shown in this film is one of hope and endurance. James Braddock was a symbol for hope and second-chances at this time. Even now, we can take something from this movie: when things have been lost and you are at your worst, a second-chance will come around. Grab it, and look for better days. It may not be easy, but it is more than possible.

If I could, I would give this movie more than 5 stars.

Thanks for reading!