
As a seasoned movie critic, I found myself drawn into a compelling tale of redemption and grit, set against the vibrant backdrop of Las Vegas. The protagonist, our heavyweight boxer, finds himself in a precarious situation: thirty pounds overweight, barely a week to shed it all before his title fight. Initial attempts at dieting and exercise seem futile, and it’s apparent that traditional methods won’t cut it.
Enter Boz (John Turturro), a man who embodies the phrase “any means necessary.” Dieting? Forget about it. Workouts are for the weak-hearted. Instead, Boz subjects our boxer to an excruciating regimen that borders on the illegal and inhumane. The journey is as grueling to watch as it is for the boxer to endure.
Boz’s methods are relentless, pushing our protagonist to his physical and emotional limits. Sweat is extracted with an unyielding ferocity, blood is drawn, and drugs are administered frequently, placing our boxer in perilously dangerous conditions. The scenes depicting Boz’s methods are harrowing, as there’s no safety net for the boxer – Turturro repeatedly warns him, “There is no ripcord!”
This movie offers a raw and unapologetic portrayal of determination, perseverance, and the lengths one will go to achieve their dreams. Despite its grim subject matter, it’s a must-watch for anyone who appreciates gritty dramas with a touch of realism.