Review of Somebody Up There Likes Me (1996) by Mark S — 07 Nov 2007

I've seen a lot of films about boxing, and I think this now ranks as one of my favourites. I've also seen almost every film Paul Newman ever made, and I think his performance as Rocky Graziano would rank among his best.

Although his acting style at the time was probably too heavily influenced by Marlon Brando, I still think he's convincing as the tough kid from a poor neighbourhood who overcomes a lawless life of crime and controversy to become middle-weight champion of the world.

The story of Graziano provided a good blueprint for the many boxing movies that have been made since.