By now, you know most of the great boxing movies. There’s Rocky, the ultimate battle of uncontested headshot to uncontested headshot against Apollo Creed, or that time he won over the hearts of Russia while defeating Ivan Drago. Humphrey Bogart’s performance in The Harder They Fall was perfect, just as Hitchcock’s imagery and choreographed perfection in The Ring was anything—oddly enough—but silent. And it’s almost impossible not to hoist Raging Bull and Million Dollar Baby atop the “All-Time Boxing Films” list.
Because the genre works so well with audiences, complemented by the rise of documentary films, more and more boxing tales are being produced, including over 10 in this decade.
As we get closer to the Final Bell of the 2010s, let’s take a look at the 10 best.
Undercard: China Heavyweight
I.M.B.D. Score: 5.9
Rotten Tomatoes: 69%
So, technically this makes the 11th entry, but what’s a good boxing experience without a solid undercard? China Heavyweight is an interesting look at the rise of boxing in China after the 1959 ban was finally lifted. The documentary follows boxing coach Qi Moxiang and his search for boxing hopefuls who will compete in the Olympics (and beyond). The makeup of the documentary follows a widespread theme boxing film fans are used to experiencing: Rags to Riches.
In this case, it’s a chance for peasant teenagers to escape hardships and obtain something better. With that kind of stakes, director Yung Chang does a beautiful job capturing the all-in desperation each fighter is willing to subject themselves to, with the hopes of one day competing for not just a medal but also the admiration of the country.