Cinderella Man

"When America was on its knees, he brought us to our feet."

Cinderella Man opens with legendary boxer Jim J Braddock (Russell Crowe) fighting it out in the boxing ring. The ideal way any boxing movie should start! But this is more than a boxing movie...

Cinderella Man happens to be yet another fine "survival" movie by Ron "Happy Days" Howard (Apollo 13, A beautiful mind). Its such a joy to watch howard's inspiring movies which make you smile when you leave the theatre as opposed to million dollar baby which was sooo depressing.

The story takes place around the times of the great depression when millions of americans were jobless and on the streets. In such times, how one man fights for his survival and gives hope to others. Russell Crowe comes up with yet another studied performance. He plays the "humbling bull" with natural ease. With power packed performances in The Insider, Gladiator, A Beautiful Mind and Cinderella Man, hes way up there. Renee Zellweger does justice to the role of a supportive wife. Paul Giamatti fits the role of the swearing coach Joe Gould to the T. Hes an actor whose an absolute joy to watch. Shouldn't be surprised to see all three nominated for the academy award.

The era of 1920s and 30s is recreated impeccably. But with so much money pumped in the project, we should hardly expect any loose ends. The boxing fights are shot with style and give you more than a ringside view. Especially, the last championship fight between Braddock and Max Baer, which runs for about 30 mins, is shot beautifully. Craig Bierko makes an ideal villain in the face of menacing boxer Max Baer, the guy who killed two men in the ring.

Overall, Cinderella Man is worth a dekho. Critics are already calling it a classic, but critics always see things which we the common people dont. So doesnt matter, make ur own opinion! Some may find it slow at times, but the movie makes up for the lack in pace with some beautiful lines.

"I know these days not everybody gets a second chance. This time around I know what I am fighting for"