I’m not a massive fan of Ron Howards’ films. I never have been, but I adore Cinderella Man. I can’t think of many better films from 2005. Russell Crowe is great and the entire cast give career best performances.
It’s also one of those films that’s based on a true story that really gets you on your feet at certain points, and as a boxing film, it’s better than Rocky for me (and I love Rocky).
Standout in the film is Paul Giamatti as Joe Gould, he’s also got the best line in the movie. The kids in the movie are great too, and have a real period look about them.
I’m not also, usually a fan of weepy films, so this film is the exception to the rule. I am however a fan of sporting movies, and you’ll see a few more make this list.
Go watch this true story, it’s full of pop, pop and bang, bang.
So, 88 films to go!
Matthew Cooper has written for Emmerdale, Eastenders, Hollyoaks and Family Affairs. He was winner of the first ever Lloyds Bank Channel Four Film Challenge and the Oscar Moore Screenplay Prize. His first short film starred a then unknown Ewan McGregor and was picked up by Channel Four when Matthew was 19 years old. He’s been a script writer for hire and filmmaker for hire for over 20 years.