Million Dollar Baby is the story of Frank Dunn, an aging fight trainer, who is convinced by his friend, Scrap, to train a “girly,” Maggie Fitzgerald who sees boxing as her way out of life as a waitress. But this is not really a boxing story, but a story of deep human emotions, problems and relationships. It’s a genuinely moving story about dealing with life and with the hardest of decisions.

Morgan Freeman is wonderful in his role as Scrap, who narrates in the way that made Shawshank Redemption such a good movie. He’s a former boxer with wisdom and heart. Clint Eastwood, who also directed this award winner, is excellent as the crusty manager, Frank Dunn trying to atone for something we never quite learn about. Hillary Swank couldn’t have been more perfect as the gutsy little hillbilly, Maggie, who fought (boxed) her way to the top. When tragedy strikes, as it had to, the story continues with honesty, sincerity and courage.

I knew enough about Million Dollar Baby to expect a pot boiler, and I wasn’t sure that I even wanted to see it. And women boxers? Not exactly a favorite theme of mine. But as often happens when I override my first judgment like that, I became completely caught up in the superb acting and the beautifully crafted story.

I especially liked the way the characters were developed, slowly and in a way that made me really care about them. Margo Martindale aptly playing Maggie’s cruel and ignorant white trash mother, and Brian F. O’Byrne as the priest Father Horvak, are instrumental in reavealing more about Maggie and Frank. In one touching scene Maggie says, “You’re all I got, Frank.” And he answers, “Well, you got me.” They need and love each other, not in the romantic way, which never would have worked, but as family, close family.

I love Clint Eastwood and I know this sounds awful, but it was a little painful for me to listen to Clint Eastwood's failing voice.

When I finished watching the movie I did shed a few tears, in spite of my determination not to cry. But I didn’t feel depressed. And I immediately wanted to write a review of the movie.

As I already mentioned, they were wonderful.
In 2005 this picture was nominated for several Academy Awards. Hillary Swank won best actress, Morgan Freeman best supporting actor, and Clint Eastwood won as best director, (he was also nominated for best actor) and the movie won as best motion picture of the year.

I recommend it to anyone who likes excellent acting, believable characters, and a very moving story.

Interested in buying this? Support Writing.Com by making your purchase of Million Dollar Baby (Full Screen Edition)   from Amazon.Com!

Created May 21, 2007 at 3:15pm • Submit your own review...