The moment Jim Braddock (Russell Crowe) injures his hand, he realizes that his previously decent boxing career is over, plunging him, his wife “Mae” (Renée Zellweger), and their children into poverty on skid row. He’s fallen from earning $8,000 per fight to scavenging for work at the docks and accepting government assistance just so they can remain in their apartment without electricity. A stroke of luck arises when his former manager Joe Gould (Paul Giamatti) secures a last-minute bout that could bring in a small $250. Though he’s not anticipated to win, Braddock unexpectedly prevails, which allows Gould to reconnect with his old contact Jimmy Johnston (Bruce McGill), potentially paving the way for a championship fight against Max Baer (Craig Bierko). The film offers a stark portrayal of American city life during the 1930s and effectively shows how boxing frequently provided an accessible route for many men lacking education to rise above poverty, benefiting their families as well. Braddock’s journey also features his friend “Mike” (Paddy Considine), who pursues a similar career but lacks the talent or judgment to succeed. Braddock is particularly lucky to have Gould supporting him; he's portrayed as less self-serving than many managers willing to discard fighters at any time. The boxing sequences are especially impactful, with Crowe investing himself fully in a character intended to display not only strength and resolve but also compassion and modesty. Giamatti delivers a standout performance, while Zellweger also makes a valuable contribution as Ron Howard presents a moving, brutal, and believable account of a man driven by his family and friends who embodies his own version of the American spirit.

Source on TMDB