Biopic of Christy Martin fails to ignite passion
The film Christy, an adaptation of Christy Martin’s memoir Fighting for Survival, fails to capture the compelling journey of the former professional boxer, who played a significant role in legitimizing women’s boxing in the 1990s, reports BritPanorama.
Martin, known as The Coal Miner’s Daughter, rose to prominence after her historic 1996 bout against Deirdre Gogarty. With backing from prominent figures such as Muhammad Ali and promoter Don King, she became a star in the world of boxing. However, her success was marred by years of both emotional and physical abuse at the hands of her manager and husband, Jim Martin, who was later imprisoned for attempted murder. After leaving him, Martin came out as gay and married her former rival, Lisa Holewyne.
Despite the rich material available, writer-director David Michôd delivers a narrative that is disappointingly linear and lacks the depth of emotion expected from such a powerful life story. Instead of bringing the audience into Martin’s struggles, the film feels more akin to Rocky 5 than the gripping intensity of Raging Bull. Sydney Sweeney, who portrays Martin, physically embodies the character, having gained weight for the role, but her performance often falls flat, amid a style that may aim for casualness yet comes off as dispassionate.
Biographical films often serve as the vehicle through which actors seek awards recognition, transforming their appearances and showcasing their range. However, Sweeney’s portrayal here lacks the complexity, failing to transcend the character’s challenges. The script does not provide much to work with, as it jumps back and forth in time, beginning with Martin’s internal struggles before she discovers boxing and culminating in a sugary resolution about self-acceptance.
Of particular note are undercurrents of homophobia and entrenched conservative values throughout the film. Martin grapples with both internal and external conflicts regarding her identity; her relationship with Jim exposes her as a character paralysed by sexist sentiments, raising questions about the beliefs she internalizes vs. the toxic views imposed by her partner.
Ben Foster delivers a striking performance as Jim, characterised by a chilling blend of affability and menace. Merritt Wever also shines as Martin’s mother, whose overly concerned reputation drives her to support the very individual who harms her daughter.
However, the film ultimately succumbs to clichés without offering nuanced discussions on the subjects it broaches. Sweeney, previously persuasive in her performance in Echo Valley, shows moments of ferocity during the climactic fight with Gogarty, but is let down by a meandering script that evokes less of a fierce contest and more of an insipid sparring match.
In cinemas 28 November
