Prizefighter is streaming on Prime Video 22 July.
Synopsis
In 1800 Jem Belcher became the youngest ever world boxing champion. Belcher, played by Matt Hookings, dominated his early fights with his unique skill, speed, and scientific approach and soon became Champion of England, a natural talent, oozing with charm, style and grace. After a life-changing accident risked ending his career forever, he begins a long, gruelling road to recovery which eventually sees him compete in a death-defying standoff – known only as The Forgotten Fight of the Century – to reclaim his title once and for all as England’s youngest boxing champion.
Review
Being a bit of a boxing or fighting fan I am normally interested in films that come out depicting this sport, Prizefighter takes the story right back to the beginning back when the sport of boxing was the chosen sport of Kings and Lords and tells the story of one Jem Belcher the once champion of England.
In an epic rag to riches biopic tale Prizefighter tells the gritty story of how Jem Belcher rose from wallowing in poverty to the top of the tree and the most talked about sportsperson in England. Normally sport films shows the glitz and glamour but Prizefighter shows the darker side of achieving your dream, glamorous people want to know you but is it you they want to know or more the name and all the fame that goes with it.
Matt Hookings expertly portrays Jem in a type of warts and all style as we go through the tough journey to the top and back down again and then his powerful fight back up again. Ray Winstone in my opinion has one of the best performances in his career has as he plays ageing trainer Bill Warr. Daniel Graham does well in the direction of the film creating a character you love and hate the learn to love again. A good watch for a boxing fan to see where it all began.
Verdict
A good overall watch for any boxing fan. A gritty biopic that shows you all sides of fame and glory. Some big performances from some well known actors and a stand out performance from Matt Hookings in the lead role.
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