We love seeing new and familiar faces getting stuck into their training here at Senshi Academy. From Muay Thai to Judo, as well as some of the best boxing training Melbourne has ever seen, we’ve got a number of different classes on offer, suitable for all levels of experience.
But for the days when you’re not training, we’ve got some movies to recommend for all of the boxing fans out there. Sports drama is a pretty niche genre, but there are so many great boxing films that might inspire you and encourage your training. Here are our top picks.
Rocky Film Series
I (1976), II (1979), III (1982), IV (1985), V (1990) and Rocky Balboa (2006)
You cannot talk about boxing films without referencing the Rocky franchise. The first film is undoubtedly one of the best boxing films ever made, and spawned an impressive seven sequels (with two more in the works). The Rocky films are a great place to start when it comes to boxing films. Rocky Balboa is arguably the OG underdog, and in Rocky goes for the opportunity of a lifetime to take on heavyweight champion of the world, Apollo Creed, setting the scene for the continuation of his story.
Raging Bull (1980)
Of course, we had to have a Martin Scorsese film on this list. Raging Bull is a masterpiece, following the ups and downs of Italian boxer Jake LaMotta, played expertly by Robert De Niro. As well as bearing witness to LaMotta’s aggressive style of fighting, we also get a glimpse into his personal life. It’s clear that LaMotta is a self-destructive character, one who sabotages his career, his relationship with his brother and his marriage in pursuit of glory.
Creed I (2015) & II (2018)
Although these two films are part of the Rocky franchise, Creed I & II deserve recognition in their own right. Michael B. Jordan stars as Adonis Creed, son of Apollo Creed (Rocky’s rival and friend), who begins his journey into the boxing world, befriending Stallone’s Rocky Balboa along the way. It’s interesting to see the Rocky narrative shift towards Adonis Creed’s story, and the fight scenes are some of the best.
When We Were Kings (1996)
Directed by Leon Gast, this documentary film follows Muhammad Ali as he prepares to compete in the “Rumble in the Jungle” with George Foreman in 1974. Although there are other films about Muhammad Ali, this film provides insight into the life of a man who wasn’t just an athlete, but an activist and a pioneer for change. Always root for the underdog.
Million Dollar Baby (2004)
Clint Eastwood’s film was an instant classic, so it’s no surprise that it won four Academy Awards including Best Director and Best Picture. Eastwood features as a trainer named Frankie Dunn who owns a boxing gym in Los Angeles. Hilary Swank won the Oscar for Best Actress for her portrayal of Maggie, an amateur boxer who is mentored by Eastwood’s Frankie. Although Frankie is hesitant to train her initially, he eventually helps her build a successful boxing career. Prepare yourself for the last third of this emotionally powered drama.
This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to boxing films but it’s a good place to start! There are so many incredible movies that take a look at how boxing is more than just fighting and will hopefully get you in the mood for your next class.
