100 Words or Less: The Fighter

Release Date: December 10, 2010 (Limited, Wide on 12/17)
MPAA Rating: R
Runtime: 1 Hour, 54 Minutes
Director: David O. Russell
Stars: Mark Wahlberg, Christian Bale, Amy Adams, Melissa Leo

This is the kind of film for which “awards season” exists. An uplifting underdog story which takes its inspiration from real-life events and is brought to the screen through engrossing performances by a solid ensemble cast, The Fighter is that rare movie which manages to be universally appealing while still impressing us pickier aficionados. Among the most impressive elements is Christian Bale’s phenomenal supporting turn as a burnt-out former boxer with a crippling crack addiction. He deserves all the praise he’s been getting, as does the finely crafted film itself.