Cinderella Man

James J. Braddock's true story gets a suitably dramatic retelling in "Cinderella Man", a Ron Howard film known for its empathetic portrayal of its characters and their challenging circumstances. A tale of resilience and grit during the Great Depression, this movie uses its historical context to tell a personal story of a man who returned to boxing to support his family, eventually becoming a world champion.

The film's intense boxing scenes are countered by its emotional story arc, where the audience gets to see Braddock as a person, not just a boxer. Russell Crowe gives a powerful performance as Braddock, taking viewers on his journey from a humbled, injured boxer to a champion for the working class.

"Cinderella Man" is worthy of a watch for its stellar performances and inspiring story. It's the optimistic underdog tale you didn't know you needed to see, reminding viewers of the strength of the human spirit. Not a fan of boxing? Not a problem. The film dives into themes of family, survival, and hope.