The Champ

1979 "The more you love... the harder you fight."
6.8| 2h1m| en
Details

Billy used to be a great boxer, but he's settled into a hardscrabble life that revolves around drinking, training horses, and the one bright spot in his existence — his young son, T.J. Although Billy has had custody of T.J. since his wife, Annie, left the family years ago, her return prompts a new struggle for the former fighter. Determined to hold on to his son, Billy gets back into the ring to try and recapture his past success.

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Reviews

Hellen I like the storyline of this show,it attract me so much
GetPapa Far from Perfect, Far from Terrible
Paynbob It’s fine. It's literally the definition of a fine movie. You’ve seen it before, you know every beat and outcome before the characters even do. Only question is how much escapism you’re looking for.
Allissa .Like the great film, it's made with a great deal of visible affection both in front of and behind the camera.
zkonedog After just recently viewing this 1979 film "The Champ", it has a little bit in common with three more contemporary films:-Million Dollar Baby (for the gritty, real-world perspective that director Franco Zeffirelli brings to the movie)-Rocky (for the underdog story)-Over The Top (for the father/son relationship and custody battle)For a basic plot summary, "The Champ" tells the story of Billy (Jon Voight) and his son TJ (Ricky Schroder). Though Billy is adored by the best son a father could ever want in TJ, Billy is also a compulsive gambler and drinker, thus not being able to provide the best environment for the young boy. When the boy's mother (Faye Dunaway) comes back into the picture, Billy (once a professional boxer) decides to step back into the ring again to try and make a few more big paydays to take care of his beloved boy.There are a few things that this film doesn't quite nail, but they are so far overshadowed by what it does right:-The acting is terrific. Schroder turns in perhaps the greatest child-star performance of all-time, while Voight and Dunaway also turn in dramatic and emotional roles.-The direction of Zeffirelli is, much like a modern-day Clint Eastwood, very realistic and down- to-earth. Much like life, there are shades of grey thrown into every decision the main characters do or do not make. It isn't just a wild soap opera with easily distinguished bad guys and heroes.-This film also pulls at the male heartstrings (yes, they do exist!) like almost no other. The themes of the father/son relationship and Billy's enduring struggle with gambling/alcohol, all eventually summed up in a sporting-atmosphere that men can relate to, create a perfect storm of male emotion that is difficult to not get overwhelmed by. If you don't shed a tear when the credits roll, you'll have to question whether you are alive at all.Overall, this is one of the better dramas you will ever watch. The overall screenplay could have been a bit tighter, but the emotional scenes more than make up for those shortcomings. Make sure to watch with the Kleenex box by the couch. As clichéd as that seems, for this film it's just the truth.
themustanggtman This is a remake of the classic Wallace Berry original from 1931, it was well made and is a more modern uptake of the original. The theme and plot of this movie is timeless, it transcends eras and is as relevant today as it was in 1931! This is a "must see", I also recommend you find the time to watch the 1931 original, BOTH are excellent watches and well worth the time. I sometimes wish Holleywood would get back to movies like these, they are always worth the price of admission and are good for the heart. We can only hope! This will be a great movie to view with the whole family, just put on the pop corn, fill your glass with your favorite beverage and prepare to be completely entertained! Your children will remember this one!
writetostephengatley This film is one of the few films underrated for no good reason. Being a media student, i really loved the film. The theme is good but the screenplay is even better. Though it is a 1970's movie... it really holds your attention. The acting was remarkable. I have no idea why this movie has a rating of only 6.1 .... The theme is a kinda similar to that of "The Wrestler", though the story line is different but former is a little more realistic than the latter ... This film definitely deserves an Oscar. It was a hit during those days but now the movie has lost its popularity. Do not go by how old the movie is ... It is BEAUTIFUL!!!
Jonathan Friedman I'm shocked by how deeply disrespected this film is. Not only is it a wonderful, touching film - but a masterpiece demonstration in character study. In essence, this is a love story. Not a traditional one, mind you - but a story of incredible love between a father and son. The acting is, across the board - PHENOMENAL. I would even argue that Ricky Schroders performance (especially considering his age), is among the very best in the ENTIRE history of cinema. I don't believe that to be even a mild exaggeration. To watch the incredible and genuine love between father and son is remarkable. I've always been and shall remain blown away by this film. Easily one of my favorite movies ever.