Movie review: Million Dollar Baby

Starring: Clint Eastwood, Hilary Swank, Morgan Freeman, Jay Baruchel, Mike Colter
Director: Clint Eastwood
Writer: F.X. Toole
Screenplay: Paul Haggis
Rating: 4/5

I must admit I am a Clint Eastwood fan. I liked his last dark drama, Mystic River and I like ‘Million Dollar Baby’. though not as good as Mystic River, Million Dollar Baby - the tale of boxing and bonding between two lost souls who find each other in the boxing ring has generated a rare level of critical consensus and is now in a heated head-to-head award competition with Sideways, the other best-reviewed American film of 2004.

‘Million Dollar Baby’ is not just about boxing. its more about emotional attachment between two people who have lost hope.

In the wake of a painful estrangement from his daughter, boxing trainer Frankie Dunn has been unwilling to let himself get close to anyone for a very long time–then Maggie Fitzgerald walks into his gym. In a life of constant struggle, Maggie’s gotten herself this far on raw talent, unshakable focus and a tremendous force of will. But more than anything, she wants someone to believe in her.

The last thing Frankie needs is that kind of responsibility– let alone that kind of risk–but won over by Maggie’s sheer determination, he begrudgingly agrees to take her on.

In turns exasperating and inspiring each other, the two come to discover that they share a common spirit that transcends the pain and loss of their pasts, and they find in each other a sense of family they lost long ago. Yet, they both face a battle that will demand more heart and courage than any they’ve ever known.

The review movie with heavyweights like Freeman and Eastwood is no easy task. The title ‘Million Dollar Baby’ may sound stupid but the movie isn’t.

The boxing scenes are so real and full of excitement you can almost smell the blood and sweat. I felt like I was in the arena boxing with Hillary.

Clint Eastwood has a directing style that is cool and smooth easy going, brilliant.

To see Morgan Freeman together with Clint Eastwood, two great actors verbally sparring in itself is a treat. Morgan can hold his own against a legend like Clint Eastwood.

Hilary Swank is believable as Maggie, I feel each blow. Hilary deserves an Oscar for her performance.