David O. Russell directs this big screen biopic of boxer Micky Ward and the various conflicts within his family during his rise to fame. What really kept this film glued together is the central performances. Mark Wahlberg is fine in the main role but it’s the supporting performances from Melissa Leo, Amy Adams and Christian Bale that add depth to the film. I admit I’m not really interested in sports or boxing films but this is well directed and successfully managed to grasp my attention. It’s not Million Dollar Baby by any rate, but it’s a solid piece of film.
Adam Lester. 