Review by Nathan Chandler for The Mungles on Movies

  Based on a true story, Resurrecting the Champ focuses on Erik Kernan (Josh Hartnett), a struggling newspaper reporter who is trying to distance himself from his father's journalistic legacy. While fearing both a pink slip from his job and his family, Erik comes across the story of a lifetime when he helps a homeless man, often referred to as "The Champ" (Samuel L. Jackson), from being beaten up by some disillusioned teenagers. When Erik's highly acclaimed article releases about the former boxing heavyweight contender, who was presumed dead, his life changes forever, but in ways he would have never imagined.

  For a film that focuses on the writing process, it was ironic that it was the screenplay that was the downfall for this movie. It wasn't the actual story, but the occasional over-the-top character or excessively sentimental moment that took me out of the movie. The actors did a great job of getting the most out of a screenplay that didn't provide them with much, particularly Kathryn Morris as Kernan's wife and Alan Alda (from M*A*S*H* fame) as Kernan's hard-nosed boss. Samuel L. Jackson's role as a homeless man is a departure from his often-booming characters and he adds life and depth to a character that is unfortunately plagued by lines and situations that distract from his good performance. Despite its faults, it was very encouraging to see a movie emphasize the importance of living life with honor and integrity in a world that teaches you to do whatever it takes to get ahead.

  Resurrecting the Champ is rated PG-13 for mild scenes of boxing violence and just a few scenes of strong language. It doesn't revel in its rating like most movies do, so it's a lot more family-friendly than most PG-13 films, although some of the themes may be lost on younger viewers. Many people will most likely get caught up in this movie's tale of redemption and moral integrity, but there were enough eye-rolling moments where I felt like I was watching a T.V. movie versus a motion picture. I give Resurrecting the Champ 2.75 out of 5 white lies.

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Nathan Chandler is a video producer and editor who lives in the heart of Dallas. He has a knack for making awesome mix CDs and has a vast knowledge for movie trivia. When Nathan isn't writing or producing short films on the side, he is wishing he was on Survivor, rooting for the Cowboys, or making sweet tea runs to Chick-fil-a. You can reach Nathan at his blog. Nathan also co-hosts The Film Alcove Podcast. Check it out!