‘Grudge Match’ Review: Charming and Inspiring Clash of Titans

The first time you heard about “Grudge Match” you probably said “What?”. I know I did. Yes, the idea of having Rocky and Raging Bull fighting each other was amusing but it also felt like too little, too late. Both actors are in their late sixties and after the first trailer the question was if there was going to be an actual combat at the end. How can you make people believe that Robert De Niro can fight Sylvester Stallone for more than 5 seconds? And more importantly, do people really want to see that? The answer to those and all other questions behind my skepticism received a very simple answer: with good building blocks you get a solid structure.

The film has a multilayered story that despite its primarily light tone, explores the tragic consequences of resentment and obsession. Sly’s “Razor” is a quiet and serious factory worker that has suppressed his pain and rage after his heart was broken decades ago. Contrastingly, De Niro’s “Kid” is an extrovert and superficial businessman that has been waiting for many years to prove that he is the better boxer. Both have been stuck in time, until for different reasons a grudge match is accepted by the parts.

All the actors are unbelievably talented and perfect for their respective parts: Stallone and De Niro bring their cinematic history to characters that are design to showcase their strengths. Kevin Hart and Alan Arkin infuse their styles into their comedy-relief roles, being funny and -in the case of Arkin- very touching. Kim Basinger still looks beautiful and Jon Bernthal was born to play De Niro’s son.

The film laughs at every boxing movie cliches while going through the tropes of the genre. When the final act arrives you like both protagonists and totally believe that the confrontation won’t be easily decided. When the bell starts the first round and the stars exchange the first punches something magical happens. This clash of titans is powerful and moving because you know that the actors as much as their characters are giving the best they have to entertaining the public and remain relevant in a society obsessed with youth and beauty.

More than a feel-good dramedy, “Grudge Match” is an inspirational, funny and moving tale of perseverance and second chances.