Director: Clint Eastwood

Screenwriter(s): Paul Haggis

Based on: Short Stories from “Rope Burns”, Written by F.X. Toole

Cast: Hilary Swank, Morgan Freeman, Clint Eastwood, Margo Martindale, Jay Baruchel, Anthony Mackie, Michael Pena, Mike Colter, Brian F. O’Byrne, Riki Lindhome, Bruce MacVittie, Lucia Rijker

Plot: An elderly trainer (Clint Eastwood), albeit reluctantly, gives an aspiring boxer (Hilary Swank) her chance at the title.

Mini Review:  Clint Eastwood gives us a “father-daughter relationship” between a boxer and her trainer (*cue chants of mo cuishle*), both of whom, although unrelated, compliment each other like family in their own stubborn ways. Screenwriter Paul Haggis uses boxing to tackle themes of perseverance, the true meaning of living, and hope. ‘Million Dollar Baby’ serves up its objective early on and doesn’t let up for a second. Like its protagonist, this film fulfills its purpose and leaves us enlightened. Jim’s Rating: 9/10

Random Trivia: Hilary Swank contracted a bacterial infection from a blister she developed on her foot during training for her role. The infection was so serious that she almost had to be hospitalized for three weeks. Catching the infection in the nick of time, she instead chose to take a week off for medicated rest and didn’t tell Clint Eastwood or the producers of the film about the injury, because she didn’t believe it was in character.

In all seriousness…

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oo3FMG2ftGM

…it’s some of the best advice and feedback you’ll hear which should come as no surprise when hearing from three extremely talented artists.

For those with a short attention span, however, here’s another interesting interview. (Seriously, is there anyone on this planet that doesn’t experience sincere comfort when hearing Morgan Freeman’s voice?)

Oscar-Winning Factors: Characterization (Script), Acting

Maggie reveals to Frank her motivation behind learning how to box. Here, we not only see her dramatic need, but it’s a plot point in the script that gets the story going.

Scrap caters to Frank’s struggle with his morality as a voice of reason as Frank contemplates whether or not he should let Maggie continue in her state. It’s brilliantly juxtaposed with a scene in which Frank seeks council from a priest. Additionally, it’s a great performance by both Eastwood and Freeman.

As there are many exchanges between Frank and Scrap, this is a moment that truly captures their friendship.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pVYUhkaBSNo

Our inside man takes on ignorance and stupidity in a scene that reveals a bit more about Scrap’s true character in his continuous fight for the underdog.

Nominations & Wins:

• Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role (W) – Hilary Swank
• Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role (W) – Morgan Freeman
• Achievement in Directing (W) – Clint Eastwood
• Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role (N) – Clint Eastwood
• Adapted Screenplay (N) – Paul Haggis
• Achievement in Film Editing (N) – Joel Cox

Source(s): IMDb, The Oscars,