SYNOPSIS

During the Great Depression, common-man hero James J. Braddock (Russell Crowe), aka the Cinderella Man, was to become one of the most surprising sports legends in history. By the early 1930s, the impoverished ex-prizefighter was seemingly as broken-down, beaten-up, and out-of-luck as much of the rest of the American populace who had hit rock bottom. His career appeared to be finished, he was unable to pay the bills, his family--the only thing that mattered to him--was in danger, and he was even forced to go on Public Relief. But deep inside, James J. Braddock never relinquished his determination. Driven by love, honor, and an incredible dose of grit, he willed an impossible dream to come true. In a last-chance bid to help his family, Braddock returned to the ring. No one thought he had a shot. However Braddock, fueled by something beyond mere competition, kept winning. Suddenly, the ordinary working man became the mythic athlete. Carrying the hopes and dreams of the disenfranchised on his shoulders, Braddock rocketed through the ranks until this underdog chose to do the unthinkable: take on the heavyweight champ of the world, the unstoppable Max Baer (Craig Bierko), renowned for having killed two men in the ring.

VFAVE CONTRIBUTOR COMMENTARY

Cinderella Man is a powerful portrayal of a man who never gives up on his marriage and family. A gentle affirmation of faith as a source of strength in tough times adds to the value of this film. Must-watch viewing for families with teens - to instill an appreciation of marriage. This film shows that father's courage coupled with a mother's perseverance in a faithful marriage is an expression of love that can endure the most difficult of trials.

VFAVE CONTRIBUTOR

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NEWS & REVIEWS

Plugged In: Cinderella Man Review

This full scale assessment of the film gives insight into the ways the film is a refreshing affirmation of family and married love, while not ignoring the films use of grittier elements to tell the story. Read More

Decent Films: Cinderella Man Review

This review gives readers a sense of the value of the film. It also also provides food for introspection on the moral issues of boxing and the entertainment that depicts it. Read More

Catholic Stand: Cinderella Man's Left Hook

Get a glimpse at the early life and backstory of the extraordinary husband and father who became a depression-era boxing hero: Jim Braddock. Read More