Simply a masterpiece. Beautiful, soulful, and bewitching in many ways (odd to say that about a boxing film). This is a film that manages to elevate the genre while still being true to what makes a good boxing or combat sports movie. Refreshingly rare today in that it cares about its characters, and goes deep into the motivations of each, while managing to be both mythic and oddly derivative in a totally refreshing way. It's a boxing film that examines the soul from different angles and motivations, and never forgets to bath you in the beauty of pure cinema and beautiful photography reminiscent of films from another time. Do yourself a favor and watch this film.