Watch Broken Noses

Broken Noses is a documentary film that explores the life of Andy Minsker, a former professional boxer who has retired to work as a boxing coach in a gym in Portland, Oregon. Directed by Bruce Weber, the film showcases the journey of Minsker, who has had his nose broken more than a dozen times and who has retired from professional boxing after suffering from numerous injuries.

The film opens with a scene of Minsker walking in the woods with his dog Rusty, narrating his thoughts on what it is like to be a boxer. Minsker, a charismatic figure with a disarming smile, talks about his love of boxing and his passion for coaching. We then see Minsker in his boxing gym, where he works as a coach and mentor to a group of young boxers.

Through interviews with Minsker and his family, as well as with former colleagues and boxers, the film takes us on a journey through his life in and out of the ring. We learn about Minsker's upbringing in a working-class family, his love of music, and his passion for boxing, which he started learning when he was a teenager.

In the film, we see Minsker coaching his young boxers, teaching them the techniques of the sport, pushing them to work harder, and motivating them to achieve their goals. Through his coaching, Minsker not only teaches them how to throw a punch but also imparts life lessons on respect, discipline, and the importance of hard work.

The film also explores Minsker's personal life, including his relationships with his family and his struggles with drug addiction. We see Minsker talking about his past, his mistakes, and his journey towards finding sobriety. The film is heartwarming at times as we see Minsker's love for his family and the positive impact he has had on the young people he has coached.

But it is not just about Minsker's life. The film also perfectly captures the spirit of the community of his gym, the camaraderie among the boxers, and the challenges they face both inside and outside of the ring. Broken Noses is ultimately about the power of sports, the human spirit and the ability to overcome adversities.

The director, Bruce Weber, skillfully blends black and white footage of Minsker's youth with contemporary scenes as he narrates his story. Weber's focus on Minsker's personality and personal struggles is what makes the film stand out. Throughout the movie, Minsker's character and his perseverance is a testament to hope, resilience, and the human spirit.

The film is not just about boxing, but rather it is about the discipline and hard work that comes with being a successful athlete. The dedication and perseverance of Minsker, as well as the other boxers in the gym, are an inspiration to all viewers, regardless of their interest in the sport of boxing.

Broken Noses is a must-watch film for anyone interested in the sport of boxing, but also for those who want to celebrate the human spirit and the power of perseverance. This is a story of triumph - of hope and redemption. Minsker's journey through his hardships is one that will undoubtedly resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction, overcame any obstacle, or achieved their dreams through dedication and perseverance.

In conclusion, Broken Noses is a brilliant documentary that captures the triumphs, challenges and complexities of life. The story examines the humanity in people - of their fears, aspirations, and how they deal with their struggles. It is a powerful movie that offers a glimpse into the life of a former boxer and the ways that the sport impacts not only one person but their community as a whole. This is a film that reminds us that even in the face of adversity, hope and redemption are possible.

Broken Noses is a 1987 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 15 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5.