The Best Boxing Movies (And How To Watch Them)
Boxing movies have been captivating audiences for decades, striking an emotional chord with their tales of perseverance, personal struggle, and the quest for redemption inside the squared circle. A blend of drama, action and often times an underdog’s journey have made these films stand out. Below is a list of the best boxing movies and how to watch them:
1.Rocky (1976) – Sylvester Stallone’s iconic character, Rocky Balboa, is a struggling boxer who gets a shot at the world heavyweight championship. It’s inspirational and has spawned several sequels.
– How to Watch: Available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, and Google Play.
2.Raging Bull (1980) – Directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Robert De Niro as Jake LaMotta, this gritty film shows the rise and fall of the middleweight boxing champ.
– How to Watch: Stream on Netflix or rent on Amazon Prime Video.
3.Million Dollar Baby (2004) – Clint Eastwood directs and stars alongside Hilary Swank in this emotionally charged tale about a female boxer aiming for her professional breakthrough.
– How to Watch: Rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video or iTunes.
4.Cinderella Man (2005) – The story of James J. Braddock, played by Russell Crowe, who made a miraculous comeback during the Great Depression.
– How to Watch: Available to stream on HBO Max.
5.The Fighter (2010) – This biographical sports drama follows professional boxer Micky Ward (Mark Wahlberg) and his journey to the world light welterweight title, with Christian Bale playing his troubled brother and trainer.
– How to Watch: Stream it on Hulu or rent it on Amazon Prime Video.
6.Creed (2015) – A continuation of the Rocky saga focusing on Adonis Creed, Apollo Creed’s son, as he seeks to make his own legacy with Rocky Balboa’s guidance.
– How to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video for rent or purchase.
7.Ali (2001) – A film that captures the life of Muhammad Ali played by Will Smith, showcasing his boxing career as well as his political activism.
– How to Watch: Rent or buy on various platforms including Amazon Prime Video and iTunes.
8.Southpaw (2015) – Starring Jake Gyllenhaal, this film delves into the life of a left-handed boxer dealing with personal tragedy while fighting his way back to the top.
– How to Watch: Netflix subscribers can watch it or you can rent it from most digital storefronts.
These movies are not only about boxing but are also filled with human stories that resonate beyond just sports fans. Each one provides a unique perspective on life both in and out of the ring, making them must-watch cinema for anyone seeking both action and depth in their storytelling.