Day of the Fight moves slowly. This is not an action movie. It is a complex, multi-layered drama that explores a lifetime of suffering and regret in great detail.
Former boxing champion Mikey Flanagan gets ready for his first bout following his release from prison. He revisits his past, reconnects with close ones and seeks redemption. Mikey tries to make things right as he prepares for this important battle.
There is no shortage of boxing movies. The story of a single person battling against more than his opponent is relatable. Rocky, Raging Bull, Million Dollar Baby, and Cinderella Man. Fighting for the underdog is one of the best ways to use boxing as a metaphor for many of life’s challenges. Even though the story of the struggling fighter battling against the odds is well-known, it always seems like there are more tales to tell. This is where Jack Huston’s directorial debut, Day of the Fight, comes in.
The events leading up to “Irish” Mike Flanagan’s first boxing match after being released from prison for unintentionally killing a child in a drunken traffic accident are chronicled in Day of the Fight. Given that he previously suffered a brain injury, Mike spends the day with his family and friends trying to make amends for his actions prior to his incarceration and becoming a better man. He is aware that the fight may be the end of his life as well as his career.
Under the direction of his former co-star from Boardwalk Empire, Michael Pitt is fantastic here. His portrayal of the complex nature of regret is nothing short of remarkable, and his performance is subtle and convincing—not just in terms of the obvious physical change he underwent, but also in terms of the conflicted and troubled mannerisms he is able to convey. Despite all of this, the portrayal of a man who has sustained numerous head injuries but still has a good heart is incredibly realistic. As always, Ron Perlman steals the show in his little role as trainer Stevie, and Steve Buscemi, Nicolette Robinson, and the always dependable John Magaro all give excellent supporting roles.
