THE FIGHTER

The true story of boxer "Irish" Micky Ward, THE FIGHTER is more than a boxing movie. It's about family, addiction and finding your own path in life. Ward was a fairly successful fighter from Lowell, Massachusetts in the '80's. HIs overbearing mother (Melissa Leo) and his meth addict brother (Christian Bale) say they want what's best for him, but really they're only trying to live their dreams through Micky. He also has to deal with his sisters, who act like their mother's Greek Chorus in scenes that are truly funny. Leo is great, but Bale is legendary. His portrayal of Dicky Ecklund is one of the best of his career. He had success and lost it to drugs. His redemption and redemptive moment are the stuff of great film. If Bale doesn't get a supporting actor nomination, something is seriously wrong with the Academy's selection process. Once again, Mark Wahlberg shows he is one of the most underrated actors working today. One look at his face and you can feel the exasperation that's boiling inside. Expertly directed by David O. Russell, THE FIGHTER shows how one man can break free of all that's holding him back and achieve his dreams. This movie should go on any list of the Top 10 movies of 2010. -- Alan Yudman