Cinderella Man: The James J. Braddock Story

Synopsis

Cinderella Man: The James J. Braddock Story is a biographical sports drama that chronicles the inspiring true story of James J. Braddock, a once-promising boxer who falls on hard times during the Great Depression. Struggling to support his family amid financial ruin and personal setbacks, Braddock makes a remarkable comeback in the boxing ring, defying the odds and reigniting hope for himself and his loved ones. The film masterfully portrays themes of resilience, determination, and the enduring power of the human spirit, set against the backdrop of a challenging era in American history.

Cast

• James J. Braddock

  Self

• 

  George Foreman

  Self

Reviews

Critically, Cinderella Man received a generally positive response for its heartfelt storytelling and compelling performances. On IMDb, it holds a rating of 6.5/10, indicating mixed to favorable reviews from audiences. Rotten Tomatoes reports a 80% approval rating, with the consensus noting, "Russell Crowe delivers a strong performance, and the film's nostalgic charm effectively captures the era's struggles." Metacritic assigned the film a score of 69 out of 100, reflecting generally favorable reviews. Critics praised the movie's emotional depth and the authentic depiction of the 1930s, though some found the pacing uneven and the narrative somewhat predictable. Roger Ebert lauded the film for its "strong character study and inspiring true story," while others like The Guardian pointed out that the film occasionally falls into conventional sports drama clichés. Overall, Cinderella Man is celebrated as an uplifting and well-acted tribute to perseverance during tough times, though it may not break new ground in the genre.

See also

Return

The Seed of the Sacred Fig

1

Juliet of the Spirits