Cinderella Man
Cinderella Man

Cinderella Man

2005Movie144 minEnglish

The true story of boxer Jim Braddock who, following his retirement in the 1930s, makes a surprise comeback in order to lift his family out of poverty.

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Insights

IMDb7.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes77%
Metacritic65/100
Google Users87%
Director: Ron HowardGenres: Biography, Drama, Sport

Plot Summary

In the depths of the Great Depression, former boxer James J. Braddock struggles to support his family, forced to take on odd jobs and rely on public assistance. When a last-minute opportunity arises, Braddock gets back into the ring, defying all odds and becoming a symbol of hope and resilience for a nation in despair.

Critical Reception

Cinderella Man was met with widespread critical acclaim, particularly for Russell Crowe's powerful performance and Ron Howard's empathetic direction. Critics praised its emotional depth, historical setting, and inspiring true story, though some found its narrative somewhat conventional.

What Reviewers Say

  • Russell Crowe delivers a commanding performance as the resilient boxer.
  • Ron Howard masterfully captures the hardship of the Great Depression and the spirit of hope.
  • A moving and inspiring true story that resonates emotionally.

Google audience: Audiences widely praised the film's inspiring true story, Russell Crowe's powerful performance, and its ability to evoke strong emotions. Many found it a touching and motivating film that accurately depicted the struggles of the era.

Awards & Accolades

Russell Crowe was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor. The film also received nominations for various other awards, including Golden Globe Awards and Screen Actors Guild Awards.

Fun Fact

Russell Crowe actually lost 50 pounds to accurately portray James J. Braddock in his down-and-out period before regaining the weight and muscle needed for his boxing comeback scenes.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

3 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

Once Jim Braddock (Russell Crowe) breaks his hand in a fight, he discovers that his previously reasonably successful life in the ring has come to an end - and that puts him, wife “Mae” (Renée Zellweger) and their kids on skid row. He’s gone...
Peter McGinn

Peter McGinn

This is a fine boxing movie, one that relies more on the fighter’s personal story than endless scenes of boxing brutality. James Braddock’s final rise to the championship was an inspirational example during the lull in between the headline-...
Andres Gomez

Andres Gomez

The stereotypical sports movie about a character which goes from glory to hell and back to the glory again. The story is OK, but nothing new. Crowe performs well, but it is not one of his best movies. Giamatti is great, as always but Zel...