Cinderella Man

Analysing certain things disparages their beauty. But, I strongly feel to share my views about a beautiful movie- Cinderella Man. Phenomenal performances by the protagonists Russell Crowe and Renee Zellweger made the emotions look so original that one could easily relate with the characters. I, myself having no interest in boxing could feel adrenaline rush within me at decisive moments in the flick. Pugilism is imbibed in the whole film connected brilliantly with daily life. Concern and support of a loving wife is easily discernible through the subtle and sobre performance of Renee.

Quite interestingly the movie is based in the backdrop of The Great Depression, which is synonymous with the ‘recession’ of these times. Mention of FDR and Hoover indicate the thoughtful connectivity between Hollywood and politics. This type of inter connectivity makes such movies a treat to relish upon. Recession today has transformed itself from an economic jargon into a word quite familiar in general parlance. But one thing which strikes me hard, specially after watching the movie is that today are we still left with values which can sail us through the difficult times? Do we still have such strong nexus with the family which stands besides us in turbulent times? The answers to these questions are hard to be elicited!!!

Resurgence is attainable through grit and determination. But it must also be backed by an honest effort, a pure heart, a lot of love and a mentor in form of Joe Gould. Yes, this movie has further strengthened my belief that a good teacher is must for success. Talent alone is not the panacea in this brutal world. If you have to choose a path among many available; a truthful advice telling you the right direction is inevitable. Loads of talent combined with honest effort gaining its outlet on a wrong path can never propel one towards his/her goals.

Similarly, friendship has turned out to be such a rare entity that its rediscovery is need of the hour. Pursuing of self interest can never result in friendship. Altruism coupled with unconditional love is required for it. Something like this is available to rare people in today’s extremely materialistic and megalomaniacal world. Rarity is what makes men succeed. And successful are those, who have the ability to seek this rarity and convert them into a generality in their life. All this was available to the Bulldog of Bergen…. the pride of New Jersey.. James J. Braddock!!!! He came as an underdog famished by the poverty caused by The Great Depression and overcame all the injuries to become World Haevyweight Champion.

In this way, Cinderella Man- a man which is the dream of everyone- is a title quite apt for the story. James J. Braddock was the dream of every person who was suffering from the sting of depression. He symbolised comeback from the adversities without compromising with his ideals and values. But how many ‘Cinderella Men’ do we have in this world today? Is it not a question to be pondered upon!!