Watch Paper Champions

Paper Champions is a 2020 Australian comedy about a washed-up former rugby player named Damon (Gary Sweet) who sets out on a new career path as a mixed martial arts coach. Damon used to be a superstar athlete, but now he spends his days feeling sorry for himself, drinking, and reminiscing about the good old days. He's a bit of a sad figure, but he's determined to turn his life around and make something of himself.

When Damon meets a young Arahan (Adam Fiorentino), he sees an opportunity to get back into the game. Arahan is a talented mixed martial arts fighter, but he lacks the discipline and confidence to succeed. Damon takes him on as his protege and sets out to turn him into a champion.

Along the way, Damon and Arahan encounter a number of colorful characters, including a rival trainer (John Tui) who is determined to bring them down. They also have to contend with their own personal demons, as Damon struggles with his past and Arahan deals with family issues.

Despite the odds against them, Damon and Arahan persevere, and eventually, they find success in the mixed martial arts world. The film is a heartwarming story about redemption, friendship, and the power of never giving up on your dreams.

Paper Champions is a well-crafted film that features strong performances from all of its actors. Gary Sweet is particularly impressive in his role as Damon, capturing both the character's gruff exterior and his vulnerable interior. Adam Fiorentino is also excellent as Arahan, bringing a genuine likability and authenticity to the character.

The film is beautifully shot, with some stunning scenery and a polished visual style that belies its small budget. The fight scenes are choreographed well, and while they are not as brutal or visceral as some other MMA films, they are still exciting and well-executed.

One of the film's greatest strengths is its sense of humor. The script is filled with clever one-liners and witty banter, and the film never takes itself too seriously. Even in the more serious moments, there is always a touch of levity that keeps the film from becoming too heavy.

Overall, Paper Champions is a charming and enjoyable film that is sure to win over audiences. It may not break any new ground in terms of its genre, but it is a well-crafted and entertaining story that is well worth watching. Whether you're a fan of martial arts films or simply looking for a fun and uplifting story, Paper Champions is a film that is sure to deliver.

Paper Champions is a 2020 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 23 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6.