More a lurching, blue-collar social drama than a conventional boxing
biopic, The Fighter connects fitfully as a story of brotherly bonds and underdog triumph. Engaging performances and a certain overall nervy energy help overcome slapdash plotting in what represents the realization of a longtime passion project for actor-producer Mark Wahlberg. Eschewing much of his signature directorial quirkiness, director David O. Russell, working for the third time with Wahlberg, nonetheless locates a rich and unexpected humor in the material. A compact vessel for the audience’s sympathies, Wahlberg is a good match for the material physically, and evinces a basic levelheaded decency. Christian Bale, meanwhile, should receive strong awards consideration in supporting actor categories. For the full, original review, from Screen International, click here. (Paramount, R, 116 minutes)