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

Starring: Russell Crowe, Renée Zellweger, Paul Giamatti, Bruce McGill, Paddy Considine, Craig Bierko, David Huband, Connor Price, Ariel Waller, Patrick Louis, Ron Canada

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★★☆ - near perfect

"Maybe I understand, some, about having to fight. So you just remember who you are... you're the Bulldog of Bergen, and the Pride of New Jersey, you're everybody's hope, and the kids' hero, and you are the champion of my heart, James J. Braddock." - Mae Braddock

Why watch this? This hard-knuckle biopic centers on James Braddock, an Irish boxer in New York City during the Depression.

Plot Summary: Just prior to the Great Depression, James Braddock feeds his family of five by winning fights. As the economy crumbles, things get tougher, and an injury sidelines his earning ability. He's forced to do what it takes to keep food on the table. He works on the docks when they call his name, and even accepts government help, which shames him deeply. With the kids freezing and sick, his wife's patience at an end, he finally gets good news. His feisty manager, Joe, found him a fight. 

Dad's Preview: You see, I've got this Irish friend, and fellow movie buff, Kev. I asked him about this film and he simply replied, "It's easily in my top ten. Why are you hear talking to me? Go home and watch it... NOW!" So I did. Braddock's real life story is so inspiring. He never quits or resorts to thievery. He desperately wants to keep his family together and be their provider. He never loses faith that his big break is just around the next corner... if he can just hold on.  It's a lesson for us all, in a world that, these days, seems to favor liars, crooks and shortcuts. Just keep fighting.

Touchstone Pictures, Miramax Films, Imagine Ent.; Universal Pictures