What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that the boxing scenes are intense, featuring slam-cuts, close-ups, brutal sound effects, and images of bloody, beaten flesh. The boxer and his family (including three young, adoring children) suffer poverty, cold winters with no heat, and hunger. Characters smoke, drink, use some language ("Go to hell"), and argue, sometimes vehemently. One character dies from a beating during a scuffle with police. The boxer and his wife kiss earnestly. The film's focus, however, is on its inspiring "message," namely, the underdog fighter -- too old, too small, and too out of practice -- returns to the ring, triumphant as if by sheer will and determination.
- Families can talk about the Great Depression, when many families were unexpectedly poor and afraid. Families might also consider the particular dedication and strength shown by the resilient Braddocks, who resolved to stay together in the face of many setbacks.