If you’re anything like me, when you want to learn more about a particular subject, you go and rent some movies. Luckily for you, boxing has spawned some of the most hard-hitting, exciting, and emotional films in the history of sports cinema (and some might say in the history of cinema itself). Without further ado, here are the films you have to check out.
- Rocky Series: While each installment has its supporters, if you can only check out one, make sure you get the original. It epitomizes the boxing spirit in its classic underdog hero, who also manages to woo the girl of his dreams while learning the art of the sweet science.
- Raging Bull: This is the other film that leaps to mind whenever you put the words “boxing” and “movie” together. Since it’s directed by Scorsese, though, you should also know that “amazing” goes along with it. Based on the true story of Jake LaMotta, the film shows what happens when a boxer can’t “shut it off” when he steps out of the ring. It’s a dark look at why some boxers do what they do. (more…)