In a way, Torsten Ruether has already madeUppercuttwice.
What is ‘Uppercut’ About?
For example, future Toni berates her fighter with a series of questions.
Image via Lionsgate
“you’ve got the option to’t keep your shit together.
You ain’t down with any rules?,” she asks, as part of a tirade.
“You let yourself get played?
Image via Lionsgate
Quite a few scenes feel like another take might have been beneficial.
It’s largely a series of intimate one-on-one gym conversations, which feel at times like a one-act play.
The movie premieres on February 28.
Uppercutis a character-driven boxing film that, much like a punch from its protagonist, doesn’t land.
For his part, Rhames is solid.
As the protagonist, Toni, Grossman is routinely stiff, as is the dialogue her character is given.
Uppercut follows Elliott, an ex-boxing champion, as he trains Toni, leading to an unexpected alliance. Through their shared journey, Elliott imparts wisdom that true strength emerges from overcoming life’s formidable challenges.
A character study needs believable performances and deep characters with strong motivations, andUppercutmisses it.
‘Uppercut’ Goes Down For The Count
Boxing is a wonderful sport for a character study.
Ring action and training montages aside, it’s ultimately a solitary sport.
It’s down for the count before it ever hit the ring.
Uppercutcomes to theaters and VOD services on February 28.
Through their shared journey, Elliott imparts wisdom that true strength emerges from overcoming life’s formidable challenges.
