The Fire Inside – REVIEW

Michael Moore’s first significant documentary ‘Roger & Me (1989)’ showcased Flint, Michigan, a city hit hard when General Motors shut down its factory, causing around 35,000 job losses. The movie ‘The Fire Inside‘ revisits this area and it seems not much has improved, as scenes of dilapidated neighborhoods and poor living conditions show. However, amidst all the struggle, an 11-year-old girl named Claressa Shields is making her way to a local boxing club run by a man named Jason Crutchfield during the day and a boxing trainer at night (played by Brian Tyree Henry). The other boys at the club mock her, but Jason quickly notices that Claressa possesses an indomitable spirit.

Five years down the line, Claressa (Ryan Destiny) is back in the boxing ring, a formidable contender that now qualifies for the 2012 Olympic trials. However, even with her triumph at the trials, the main event remains challenging due to strict Olympic rules preventing her onsite coach, Jason, from being in London with her. To add to her troubles, her single parent mother evicts her from their home, a boyfriend eager for her attention, a pregnant sister who’s estranged from their mother, and academic responsibilities at school further complicate her life.

For those seeking their Rocky-esque narrative, here it is – packed with motivational talks, a humble beginning, and undoubtedly the classic training sequence. The climax sees her triumphing at the Olympics, but that’s just the beginning of the tale. The second half delves into life post-glory. Endorsement deals and sponsorships are scarce, and boxing under harsh conditions might seem perfect for a hemorrhoid treatment (a dismissal – ‘You’re fired!’ – Ed). A different story unfolds for women’s beach volleyball. Companies eagerly invest in athletic, toned beauties in bikinis and minimal sports bras frolicking on the beach. However, two women brutally fighting each other…well, you can find that on the Old Kent Road on a Friday night.

Ryan Destiny and Brian Tyree Henry share an exceptional screen rapport, and their shared scenes shine brightly. As Henry takes on the role of a mentor to the subdued teenager, his character’s reticence towards men is delved into in a rare moment of candidness. This dynamic elevates the first half of the film beyond typical boxing movie cliches. The second half offers a poignant glimpse into the authentic struggles faced by athletes after achieving gold medals, as promoters push for a more glamorous image reminiscent of contestants on RuPaul’s Drag Race. Despite these pressures, she decides to strive for a second Olympics in an attempt to secure consecutive gold medals in boxing – a feat never before achieved.

The Fire Inside” is an exceptional real-life movie boasting two outstanding performances, offering a narrative that transcends typical boxing stereotypes, showcasing the brilliance of writer Barry Jenkins’ script and director Rachel Morrison, who was nominated for an Oscar in cinematography. In essence, it’s a powerful punch to the cinematic world.

Here’s the Fire Inside trailer…..

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2025-02-06 03:24