The Battler
The Battler

Movie spotlight

The Battler

1919
Movie
60 min
English

Clean-living pugilist Jim Fortune assists Angelica Hart when her husband Duncan assaults her in a Bowery café. Soon after, Jim fights a bout with Hart, an amateur society boxer, during a dinner party. Enraged by the sight of whip marks on Angelica's neck, Jim knocks Hart out soundly. In revenge, that night Hart attacks Angelica.

Insights

Director: Edwin CareweGenres: Drama, Sport

Plot Summary

A former boxing champion, now down on his luck and struggling with alcoholism, gets a chance at redemption when he's offered a rematch. He must overcome his personal demons and the machinations of a greedy promoter to reclaim his former glory and prove himself worthy. The story delves into themes of second chances, the corrupting influence of fame, and the fight for personal dignity.

Critical Reception

As a silent film from 1919, detailed critical reception is scarce. However, contemporary reviews likely focused on its dramatic narrative and the performance of its lead actor in portraying a fallen hero. The film aimed to tap into the public's fascination with boxing and stories of personal struggle and triumph.

What Reviewers Say

  • Melodramatic portrayal of a boxer's fall and potential redemption.

  • Exploits the popularity of boxing for dramatic effect.

  • Focuses on themes of addiction and the possibility of a second chance.

Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this film is not available due to its age.

Fun Fact

The film is based on the 1917 novel of the same name by Robert W. Chambers, a prolific author known for his popular fiction across various genres.

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