The Best Boxing Movies (And How To Watch Them)
Boxing has long been a source of inspiration for filmmakers, resulting in some of cinema’s most iconic movies. Here’s a list of the best boxing movies and where you can watch them:
Rocky (1976)
Starring: Sylvester Stallone
Where to watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video
Why it’s great: The ultimate underdog story that spawned a successful franchise.
Raging Bull (1980)
Starring: Robert De Niro
Where to watch: Available on Netflix
Why it’s great: Martin Scorsese’s masterpiece, known for its gritty realism and De Niro’s transformative performance.
Million Dollar Baby (2004)
Starring: Hilary Swank, Clint Eastwood
Where to watch: Available on HBO Max
Why it’s great: A poignant drama that explores the human side of boxing.
The Fighter (2010)
Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Christian Bale
Where to watch: Available on Hulu
Why it’s great: Based on a true story, it showcases the struggles of boxer Micky Ward.
Creed (2015)
Starring: Michael B. Jordan, Sylvester Stallone
Where to watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video
Why it’s great: A successful continuation of the Rocky franchise with a fresh perspective.
When We Were Kings (1996)
Documentary about Muhammad Ali vs. George Foreman
Where to watch: Available on YouTube
Why it’s great: An insightful look at one of boxing’s most famous matches.
Cinderella Man (2005)
Starring: Russell Crowe
Where to watch: Available on Peacock
Why it’s great: Tells the inspiring true story of James J. Braddock.
The Hurricane (1999)
Starring: Denzel Washington
Where to watch: Available on Starz
Why it’s great: A powerful biopic about boxer Rubin “Hurricane” Carter.
Southpaw (2015)
Starring: Jake Gyllenhaal
Where to watch: Available on Netflix
Why it’s great: Gyllenhaal’s intense performance and the film’s emotional depth.
Ali (2001)
Starring: Will Smith
Where to watch: Available on Hulu
Why it’s great: A comprehensive biopic of the legendary Muhammad Ali.
Remember to check your local streaming services as availability may vary by region and time. These films not only showcase the sport of boxing but also delve into themes of perseverance, redemption, and the human spirit.