Countless boxing films have thrilled and captivated longtime enthusiasts while also attracting new fans of all ages to the Sweet Science. Here is our ranking, based on personal preferences and evaluations: the 10 best boxing films of all time, according to Boxe Punch!
Methodological Note: In this selection, we focused on movies where boxing plays a central role, leaving out great masterpieces like The Hurricane and Requiem for a Heavyweight, where the sport serves more as a backdrop than the central theme.
10) Rocky
It’s impossible not to mention the first chapter of a saga that, regardless of how one judges it, brought boxing closer to audiences of all ages. While the numerous sequels lost credibility and a sense of proportion, the opening film—winner of three Academy Awards despite its small budget—beautifully portrayed a touching human story of courage and dedication, steering clear of the typical extremes of American blockbusters.
9) Ali
Michael Mann’s film might be “too perfect,” as its meticulous detailing of the life and accomplishments of “The Greatest” sacrifices some emotional impact—less than expected, given the magnitude of its subject. Nonetheless, it features an outstanding performance by Will Smith, who bulked up significantly for the role, and Mann’s ability to create a comprehensive portrait of Ali, showcasing both his strengths and flaws.
8) The Harder They Fall
That the film is inspired by Primo Carnera’s life may understandably offend those familiar with the true story of the Italian boxer. However, if viewed without this context, the film effectively highlights the shady dealings often lurking behind the scenes in boxing history. It also conveys a message of hope: not everyone is willing to live with a guilty conscience.
7) Cinderella Man
This film has all the ingredients to bring tears to viewers’ eyes. Russell Crowe, in a brilliant performance, takes us through the incredible story of a man battered by life’s harshest blows but resilient enough to rise again and claim his victory. A minor flaw, however, is the heavy-handed political message: those who conform to the American system succeed, while rebels are doomed.
6) The Set-Up
An unscrupulous manager has so little faith in his boxer that he sells out by fixing the match without telling him, in order to avoid splitting the meager reward. When the athlete discovers the betrayal, victory is already within his grasp, and he decides to give himself one last night of glory, regardless of the consequences. The locker-room scenes, rich with illusions, fears, and fantasies of the fighters waiting to step into the ring, are particularly memorable.
5) Fat City
Cinema hasn’t always focused on champions and world titles. This melancholic John Huston film explores the boxing world of outcasts and underdogs, performing far from the spotlight. The “fat city” setting, a metaphor for the mediocrity the characters struggle to escape, continually brings them back to where shattered dreams turn into regrets.
4) Million Dollar Baby
In this cinematic gem, Clint Eastwood weaves seemingly disparate themes into perfect harmony. Extraordinary fight sequences pave the way for profound reflections on willpower, the true meaning of “family,” the rigid orthodoxy of the Church, and the dilemma of euthanasia. Pioneering at the time, the choice to focus on women’s boxing anticipated the sport’s rise in popularity.
3) When We Were Kings
This goosebump-inducing documentary captures the story of the man who transcended boxing to become a symbol. The intertwining narratives of Ali the man and Ali the fighter culminate in the most historic bout ever hosted in a ring: the “Rumble in the Jungle,” where Ali triumphed over the fearsome George Foreman. The soul concert preceding the event enriches this masterpiece, which took 22 years to complete.
2) Raging Bull
Martin Scorsese’s masterful direction, Robert De Niro’s Oscar-winning performance, a perfectly tailored soundtrack, and exquisitely managed black-and-white visuals: every element of this 1980 film about Jake LaMotta contributes to its status as a cinematic masterpiece. The brutal boxing scenes mirror the protagonist’s violent inner turmoil, driving him to the depths of despair. Though initially underappreciated at the box office, the film has since been hailed as a cornerstone of cinema.
1) Somebody Up There Likes Me
This biographical film about Rocky Graziano follows the Italian-American boxer from his youthful mischief to his surprising world championship triumph. Paul Newman brought to life a character as turbulent as he was naive, never losing credibility. This is a story of punches, passions, and emotions that makes us dream and reflect with a smile, showing how life’s chaotic twists can sometimes propel pure-hearted individuals to the top of the world.