Mickey the Great

Synopsis

"Mickey the Great" is a 1945 drama featuring the beloved actor Mickey Rooney in the lead role. The story revolves around a struggling young boxer named Mickey who faces personal and professional challenges as he attempts to rise above his circumstances. Set against a backdrop of post-war America, the film delves into themes of ambition, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams amidst adversity. As Mickey navigates the demanding world of boxing and complex relationships, the narrative explores his determination to prove himself both inside and outside the ring, highlighting Rooney's energetic performance and emotional depth.

Cast

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  Mickey Rooney

  Mickey McGuire

• 

  Delia Bogard

  Herself / Tomboy Taylor #1

• 

  Billy Barty

  Billy McGuire

• Shirley Jean Rickert

  Self

• 

  Kendall McComas

  Self / Stinky Davis

• 

  Douglas Scott

  Self / Stinky Davis

Reviews

Critical reception to "Mickey the Great" has been mixed over the years, reflecting a range of opinions about the film's storytelling and execution. On IMDb, the movie holds a rating of 5.6/10 based on user reviews, indicating an average reception. Many critics praised Mickey Rooney's charismatic and heartfelt portrayal of the titular character, noting that he brings vitality and earnestness to the role. However, some reviews pointed out that the film's plot adheres to familiar boxing-movie tropes and lacks innovative narrative elements, leading to predictability. The straightforward direction and pacing were seen by some as dated by contemporary standards. Rotten Tomatoes does not have an official score for the movie, reflecting its status as a lesser-known classic. Nevertheless, fans of classic cinema and boxing stories often appreciate the film's nostalgic value and Rooney’s engaging presence. Overall, "Mickey the Great" is recognized for its spirited lead performance but is viewed as a modest entry in the 1940s sports drama genre.