Review of The Boxer (1997) by Joel K — 04 Sep 2009

Can't remember when I saw Daniel Day-Lewis disappoint in a film. Well, silence, prison, boxing, bombings, dude gets beat with a bat, forbidden love, separated lovers, having a firm code of right and wrong even if it necessitates doing just a little bit more than the law will allow, don't you know that children are the future, arson.

The boxing match scene versus the Nigerian in London should be included in any film course on race I think- also the silence there- great artistic touches abound. The scene at the end under the bridge so the belfast ghetto bird can't see is awesome.

If you have an interest in the late troubles period in Northern Ireland- I think this gives a good artistic historical fiction impression of how imbedded in the culture the sectarian violence was. Nominated for three golden globes, grossed under 5.

9 mil us box. Great love story, lots of violence- there is something for everyone. If you like really well made films you should check this one out. It deserves more acclaim.