The Fighter

While this may not be the strongest contender for the Best Picture Oscar, it’ s obvious why it made the list. Based on the true story of the relatively unknown boxer Micky Ward, the film represents a fight in more than one sense of the word.

A talented fighter, Micky had to overcome several obstacles to gain success, the least of which was his family. It is only when he meets his girlfriend, Charlene, that Micky starts to see that perhaps his mother doesn’t make the best manager, and his crackhead ex-con brother, Dicky, might not be the best trainer. But how to let them go without losing their support poses yet another dilemma.

Mark Wahlberg spent four years prepping for this passion project, and it shows; he’s great. It is a super-skinny Christian Bale playing Dicky, however, who steals the show. Intense, scary and more believable than ever, he’s a glorious sight to behold.

Rating: 4 outta 5.