The Boxer

Jim Sheridan managed to create an immensely impressive film on a relatively small scale and with a fairly negligible budget; it captivates the audience without them even realizing it. Although poor and unassuming in terms of expressive means, it is incredibly captivating with its rawness and realism, not only in regards to the story of a once-promising boxer deeply in love, but also concerning the racial and religious issues of Ireland at that time. Every minute, we are shown that life in the tough neighborhoods of Irish cities can be just as difficult as being without the person you love for 14 years. The boxing matches, which essentially serve as a mediator and help us understand Daniel Day Lewis's character and motivations, are brilliantly filmed, and the final brutal fight and scene with the cars will leave you truly breathless. However, the best thing of the entire film is, without a single doubt, Emily Watson. (06/08/2006)

I don't normally like films with boxing themes, but The Boxer is an exception because boxing plays only a purely secondary role in it. It is a psychological drama about an ex-convict who deals with the issue of reintegrating into a society divided by civil war, pervasive terror, and intimidation. Additionally, he has to come to terms with a love relationship interrupted by a 14-year prison sentence and the fact that his former partner has a new family and commitments to her community and child. It is suspenseful until the very last moment, very well written, directed, and acted. A powerful film about an unhappy country and an unhappy time. Overall impression: 90%. (17/04/2010)