We Still Have Hope: A Review of Southpaw

Staring:                                               Directed By:                       Written By:

Jake Gyllenhaal                                  Antoine Fuqua                    Kurt Sutter     

Rachel McAdams

Forest Whitaker

Oona Laurence

Naomie Harris

Unabashedly heartbreaking, undeniably inspiring, and undisputedly a champion of films amongst some lackluster entries this summer.

Boxing has been in the center ring of many a film including Rocky and Raging Bull, and when it comes to sport flicks, stories are often rehashed for younger generations. Yet, what separates these films and makes them unique is the work and effort put into the storyline and characters.  In this boxing film, hot-headed street-kid turned world famous boxer Billy Hope, must over come the tragic death of his wife, (this is not a spoiler…it’s in the preview folks), his daughters sentence to be taken into child protective services, and the complete deconstruction of his life and career. A film, when introduced like so, may seem comparable to other films, however this is not the case with Southpaw.

Kurt Sutter 

Antoine Fuqua 

After seeing this moving film, it was obvious that the men and women that worked on this project were at the top of their games. Kurt Sutter, hot off the final, and brilliant season of the epic Sons of Anarchy, creates a world that is realistic, harsh, and soulfully deep. Antoine Fuqua, director of Training Day and Olympus Has Fallen, (and if you have not seen those two films...you need to), brilliantly directs this film in a way that makes you feel as if you are a part of this journey of self redemption. Southpaw hits audiences with a combination of beautifully damaged characters, and phenomenal actors bringing them to life.  The movie never once hits the breaks on action, emotions, and storyline.

Jake Gyllenhaal Variety

With Jake Gyllenhaal at the top of his game, both physically and professionally, it is hard to even imagine anyone else playing Billy Hope. The role was originally set to be played by Eminem however his part in the films musical tone was top notch. Phenomenal, is quiet brilliant and could very well be the newest Eye of the Tiger. Gyllenhaal brought such life to his performance that he seemed to disappear into the character and for the two hour running time, there was only Hope; his pain, his sadness, and his undefeatable strength. He just may finally have his day at the Oscars.

Rachel McAdams Huffington Post

Forest Whitaker Variety

Oona Laurence 

The supporting cast of Southpaw shines brightly making this film more than your average boxing flick. Rachel McAdams, the ill-fated wife of Hope is superb and her death scene alone deserves a best supporting actress nomination. More so, Forest Whitaker undoubtedly deserves a nomination and a win for his role as Willis, an ex-professional boxer, trainer, and Hopes’ (one) blue-eyed mentor. Whitaker seemed so comfortable and each time he spoke you knew he was going to say something memorable.  As far as moving performances, 10 year old Oona Laurence will break your heart and then piece it back together for you…bring tissues…for you emotional types.

Terrific through and through, Southpaw may very well have a chance in becoming a contender as one of the greatest boxing films in cinematic history.  Yet, that all depends on what you think.  Go to the movies, buy a ticket, sit back with an champion-sized popcorn and soda, and enjoy the film.

        Please, feel free to tweet me or comment here telling me what you thought of the film!