Day of the Fight

It leans too heavily into ham-fisted cliché but Jack Huston’s debut gets by on a striking look and a clutch of strong performances led by an excellent Michael C. Pitt.

Yes, you’ve seen it all before, but it’s never been quite as beautiful as this.

It feels like a student film in many ways though Huston is a diligent and respectful student and there’s nothing wrong with his work with the actors... Not a knockout, by any means, but a win on points.

The Day of the Fight marks the writing and directing debut of actor Jack Huston, and it’s a film he can point to with pride—it’s a creditable and entertaining genre piece

Pitt’s all-in performance and an impressive supporting cast supply enough roughhouse wit and Brooklyn grit to hold up scenes that might have otherwise gone down for the count.

“The Day of the Fight” punches above its weight because of the acting might of Pitt and the incredible black-and-white cinematography from Peter Simonite.

Make no mistake - this is not just another boxing movie. And, while it may not be a knock-out, its heart and sincerity make sure it punches well above its weight.

Day Of The Fight is an unpolished indie gem that, to use one last boxing cliché, punches well above its weight.

Day of the Fight is thus a competent, compelling and tidy addition to the canon, even if it mightn’t have the outright pizazz to stand out.

It's no candidate for greatness, but if you’ve got a soft spot for boxing movies it just about goes the distance.