Watch The Boxer

The Boxer, a 1997 drama directed by Jim Sheridan, stars Daniel Day-Lewis as Danny Flynn, a former IRA member who is released from prison after serving a 14-year sentence for his involvement with the organization. Returning home to Belfast, Danny struggles to adjust to civilian life and find his place in a city still plagued by violence and sectarianism.

As he tries to leave his past behind, he falls in love with Maggie (Emily Watson), a young woman who runs a community center that offers boxing lessons to young people in the area. Despite Maggie's objections, Danny returns to the ring, channeling his anger and frustration into his training.

The film explores the themes of redemption, reconciliation, and the struggle for peace in a divided community. It also delves into the complicated relationships between those who were once on opposite sides of the conflict, examining the human toll of the Troubles and the difficult choices that must be made to move forward.

The acting in The Boxer is superb, with Daniel Day-Lewis delivering a powerful and nuanced performance as Danny. Emily Watson also shines as Maggie, providing a compelling counterpoint to Danny's rough edges. Daragh Donnelly rounds out the cast as Danny's close friend and former IRA member, providing a glimpse into the mindset of those who were once part of the organization.

Like many of Jim Sheridan's films, The Boxer blends gritty realism with moments of tenderness and humor. The scenes of Danny training and boxing are exhilarating, while the quieter moments between him and Maggie convey a warmth and intimacy that is rare in films about conflict and violence.

The cinematography is also noteworthy, capturing the stark beauty of Belfast and the surrounding countryside. The film's score, composed by Gavin Friday and Maurice Seezer, is haunting and evocative, adding another layer of emotion to the already powerful storytelling.

Overall, The Boxer is a moving and thought-provoking film that explores the human cost of political violence and the power of forgiveness and redemption. Its themes of reconciliation and hope are as relevant today as they were when the film was first released over 20 years ago.

The Boxer is a 1997 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 53 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0 and a MetaScore of 75.