Ryan Destiny and Brian Tyree Henry both provide notably good performances within this biographical film about the United States’ initial boxing Olympic gold medalist. The story traces her journey through her career, so we are privy to exactly what transpired and when; however, it's the character-driven aspects that leave a stronger impression as she embodies Claressa Shields. From an early age, this determined young girl (played by Kylee D. Allen and Jazmin Headley) runs considerable distances just to get to his gym, only to be denied access because she’s female. Henry’s portrayal of Jason Crutchfield eventually gives her a shot, which convinces him that she possesses real potential. Despite growing up in circumstances marked by poverty and with her father behind bars, they decide that if she commits herself to boxing, perhaps fame and wealth could follow – and that becomes a powerful motivator for someone who desperately wants to lift her family out of their difficult situation. The film offers an intriguing perspective on the dedication and maneuvering needed to secure selection, intensified by a general unwillingness among sporting organizations to allow women to box, and it also demonstrates how fleeting those moments of public recognition can be when it comes to attracting attention from marketing and sponsorship companies, who are all too ready to move on after the celebrations have concluded. While this film concentrates specifically on her accomplishments, I believe it’s reasonable to extend that observation to many aspiring Olympic (amateur) athletes participating in less profitable sports – regardless of gender – who struggle financially while others—typically located in offices somewhere—profit considerably more. Furthermore, even the relatively small amount of money available to support them (in her case, just $1,000 a month, and only $3,000 for the male athletes with whom she rightfully seeks equality) doesn’t cover the costs associated with their training staff and support network—the relationships, connection, and teamwork between athlete and coach would seem more likely to produce positive outcomes. The film incorporates numerous simulated documentary segments to convey the physical demands of boxing, and as a sports drama, it combines fact, fiction, and inspiration in a measured and genuine way. It's worth seeing.

Source on TMDB