Cinderella Man

Cinderella Man (2005) is a brilliant motion picture, directed by Ron Howard and based on a true story, that reflects the hardships and rise to prominence of heavyweight contender and North Bergen, New Jersey resident James J. Braddock, who is played by actor Russell Crowe (A Beautiful Mind, 2001).

The plot takes place during The Great Depression, at a time when employment was extremely scarce, anxiety was at an all time high as a result of the recession, and suicide was both attempted and committed. After losing his boxing license as a result of a lackluster performance in the ring, one that ends in a no contest, Braddock finds himself without a job and unable to generate income to support his family. Braddock and his family ultimately lose the utilities (gas and electric) to their home. Braddock, doing everything in his power to make a healthy home for his family, continuously goes to the docks in an attempt to work shifts.

The shifts are competitive; some days he is denied - other days he is chosen to work. Labor is rough for Braddock, who works with a broken right hand. Eventually, Braddock's manager is able to reinstate Braddock's license land him a fight with the number two middleweight contender Corn Griffin. Braddock would survive a knockdown to knock out Griffin in three short rounds, and score two more wins, over the likes of John Henry Lewis and Art Lasky, before finally getting a shot at the World Heavyweight Championship against reigning champion Max Baer.

This motion picture truly reveals the phrase "ashy to classy." What Braddock accomplished, under such unfortunate circumstances, is unprecedented and should be admired. Ron Howard did an excellent job directing this movie and Russell Crowe pretty much resurrected Jimmy Braddock, bringing him back to life, with his performance in this film. This is a must see for boxing fans, as well as people who long to capture a real-life fairy tale.

These types of stories, inspirational and heartwarming, do not happen every day in the real world. This movie can really inspire one to be all that one can be and appreciate what one has. The fact that this true story happened during a time as rough as The Great Depression enhances the magic of the legend that is James J. Braddock.