Cinderella Man (109 minutes)
My alternative title would be: Saved by the Bell

SUPER MOVIE FAN'S RECOMMENDATION: 3, SEE IT

Who is in it?:
RUSSELL CROWE, RENEE ZELLWEGER, PAUL GIAMATTI

What is it about?
James Braddock (RUSSELL CROWE) is a successful boxer in the late 1920s. His career is shattered by a broken wrist and his money zapped by the bad luck of the depression. Down to his last dime, with his wife (RENEE ZELLWEGER) and children barely surviving, he starts a comeback that reinvigorates his career, saves his family and inspires the country. Eventually, Braddock gets to fight for the world title held by Max Baer.

When and Where does this movie take place?
New Jersey and New York during the Great Depression. This is based on a true story.

Why see it? RON HOWARD produces and directs this film brilliantly. CROWE and ZELLWEGER are outstanding as is Braddock's agent, played by PAUL GIAMATTI (from Sideways). This is a sentimental and amazing portrait of the depression and how one man fought literally to keep his hope alive. ZELLWEGER really works well with CROWE. See this one, Wayne. A really good movie. It works the way Seabiscuit did. The underdog fires up a nation that needs heroes. The boxing is intense and very well filmed. By the way, Cinderella Man is a nickname given Braddock by a reporter following his comeback.

How about the kids?
Rated "PG-13" for boxing violence.

Video Pick of the Week
East of Eden, the 1955 movie with JAMES DEAN, based on the Steinbeck novel is out on DVD this week, Wayne. A tale of two brothers who fight to keep a family farm going.

Next week, we'll review, Mr. & Mrs. Smith, with ANGELINA JOLIE and BRAD PITT. They are secret assassins and married—which seems to work out until they are assigned to kill each other. I am sure the sparks will fly, Wayne.

John Fischetti can be heard Friday's on the Wayne Perkey show on Oldies 103, WRKA and can be reached at fischettij@uncw.edu



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