It's so rare that I see a movie in the theater these days, and even more rare that I like one enough to recommend it. However, last night my husband and I went to see Cinderella Man, and we give it 2 big thumbs up. Even my husband, the pickiest of picky movie-goers really enjoyed this movie.
If you've heard that it's a "boxing movie" and have dismissed it because of that, I can tell you that it's way more than that. The story is about the life of a boxer and his family, and it takes place during the late 1920's - early 30's, during the Great Depression. There were a few times when I had to close my eyes, during boxing scenes, but the story isn't all about that.
Russell Crowe plays the lead character, Jim Braddock, and he is outstanding in this role. Braddock is devoted to his family and determined to provide & care for them, through the downfall of his boxing career and the Depression. Renee Zellweger (aka Mrs. Kenny Chesney) plays Braddock's wife Mae, and she's also very good in this movie.
This movie is a great reminder to appreciate all that we have, and it's ultimately very uplifting. This is not a Hollywood schmaltz-y inspirational story. It's a very well done movie about a real man and his struggle during the Depression. Kudos to director Ron Howard for keeping it real.
There you have it -- my holiday weekend movie recommendation. Cinderella Man. Check it out... you won't be sorry.
***Note: TypePad is going to be down for maintenance tonight - Friday, 7/1 If you can't get in to this or other sites, that may be why! ******
A movie??? In a theater?? I wish!
Posted by: Jody Halsted | Friday, July 01, 2005 at 02:39 PM
What's up with all the boxing movies that aren't boxing movies these days? I've heard the same thing about Million Dollar Baby. Haven't seen that one, either. Someday...probably on DVD...when I don't have to pay a sitter...
Posted by: Bluegrass Mama | Friday, July 01, 2005 at 04:51 PM
Thanks for the recommendation! There's nothing worse than spending $8 for a movie and then $15 for food and not liking it. Now I can feel secure in my selection.
Posted by: Anita | Saturday, July 02, 2005 at 08:54 AM
Jody,
You know, I think this is the first one we've been to since we've been parents! I think the last theater movie we saw was Starsky & Hutch... on one of my last days of pregnancy!
BGM,
I'll have to check out Million Dollar Baby. I'm just coming out of my movie cocoon, apparently!
Yeah, you know I'm the cheapest of the cheap -- I bought discount passes at work ($4.50 each)and gave them to my hubby for our anniversary. I basically dragged him kicking & screaming to the theater... 'saying come on! we're going on a date!' & we went when Grandma was here to baby-sit... I really pull out all the stops with my gift-giving! Fortunately we both really liked this flick.
Anita,
I hope you like it too!! I can't believe how freaking expensive movies are. And then food on top of it? Forget it! It's nuts.
Posted by: Marie | Saturday, July 02, 2005 at 10:30 AM
My First Wife and I were just discussing whether or not we'd like to see that movie. Thanks for the recommmendation. I guess we'll watch it--when it's available for home viewing.
Posted by: Paul N. | Saturday, July 02, 2005 at 11:10 AM
I thought it looked good from previews... We'll probably wait till it's out on DVD, though. It's rare we go to the movies without the kids.
Posted by: Karen | Saturday, July 02, 2005 at 11:15 AM