Daniel Day-Lewis stars as Danny in 1997's "The Boxer." He got mixed up with the IRA in Belfast in his late teens and it landed him in prison for 14 years. Now wanting nothing to do with the IRA, he starts a non-sectarian boxing club in an old gymnasium with his old alcoholic trainer, Ike (Ken Stott). His ex-girlfriend, Maggie (Emily Watson), is now married with a son, Liam, but her husband is currently in prison for involvement with the IRA and she doesn't love him anyway. The two still have feelings for each other but can't act on them. Maggie's father is the local "godfather" of the IRA who's war-weary and wants peace (Brian Cox), but is countermined by Harry, a bitter and ruthless IRA leader, Harry (Gerard McSorley).
As noted in my title blurb, this is not a sports film, so don't expect "Rocky." Yes, there are three boxing matches and several training scenes, but they're mostly a backdrop to Danny's desire to go home after his long prison stint and live in peace, free of those who want to continue the cycle of violence. Of course, the war-mongers will only leave him alone if he's a passive little sheepie. When he actively hinders the IRA's operations, it incites the wrath of Harry and his heavies.
This is a great film to get the human perspective on "The Troubles" of Northern Ireland (as it's called) that took place from 1968-1998. The acting of the principles is a highlight – Day-Lewis, Watson, Cox, et al. My favorite part is the believable and well-written relationship of Danny and Maggie. Emily really shines here as the girl-next-door type; she's such a natural "down home" Irish beauty. The filmmakers are wise not to rush things and allow events and relationships to blossom or devolve naturally. Another highlight is the excellent soundtrack, beginning with the incredible opening track "In The Shadow Of A Gun" by Gavin Friday.
Unless you're familiar with heavy Irish accents I suggest using the subtitles. My wife and I didn't use them and we had to struggle a bit to make out the dialogue. This is not mindless entertainment and the film requires some effort on the part of the viewer, but it's rewarding, if you're willing.
The film runs 113 minutes and was shot in the Dublin area.
GRADE: B+ (almost A-)
As noted in my title blurb, this is not a sports film, so don't expect "Rocky." Yes, there are three boxing matches and several training scenes, but they're mostly a backdrop to Danny's desire to go home after his long prison stint and live in peace, free of those who want to continue the cycle of violence. Of course, the war-mongers will only leave him alone if he's a passive little sheepie. When he actively hinders the IRA's operations, it incites the wrath of Harry and his heavies.
This is a great film to get the human perspective on "The Troubles" of Northern Ireland (as it's called) that took place from 1968-1998. The acting of the principles is a highlight – Day-Lewis, Watson, Cox, et al. My favorite part is the believable and well-written relationship of Danny and Maggie. Emily really shines here as the girl-next-door type; she's such a natural "down home" Irish beauty. The filmmakers are wise not to rush things and allow events and relationships to blossom or devolve naturally. Another highlight is the excellent soundtrack, beginning with the incredible opening track "In The Shadow Of A Gun" by Gavin Friday.
Unless you're familiar with heavy Irish accents I suggest using the subtitles. My wife and I didn't use them and we had to struggle a bit to make out the dialogue. This is not mindless entertainment and the film requires some effort on the part of the viewer, but it's rewarding, if you're willing.
The film runs 113 minutes and was shot in the Dublin area.
GRADE: B+ (almost A-)