Review of Grudge Match (2013) by Sol C — 01 Jan 2014

Grudge Match delivers the goods. I was hoping that the film wasn't gonna be a spoof in the tradition of movies like Naked Gun or Hot Shots. I was pleasantly surprised by the film. The film is really an homage to both Rocky and Raging Bull. Both Stallone and De Niro shine here. They both can still get it on in the ring. I think what makes this unique is that their is no real villain to root against. You are rooting for both of them to win and there can only be one winner. The big boxing match at the end was really good.

Acting wise, Stallone is great here. Seeing him in the ring, makes me want to see him as Rocky one more time. De Niro reminded me a lot of some of his past characters including from Meet the Parents and Analyze This. Both him and Stallone have a great on screen chemistry. Basinger does a good job here. Kevin Hart is hilarious. Both him and Alan Arkin have some of the best lines of the film. Jon Bernthal is great as De Niro's son.

You won't get Rocky or Raging Bull here. Instead you will get a movie that honors both of them. I also say, stay during the end credits for a funny scene between Kevin Hart and 2 real boxing champs.