Day of the Fight (2024) - Film Review

      **Day of the Fight, 2024**

      *Written and Directed by Jack Huston*

      *Starring Michael C. Pitt, Nicolette Robinson, Ron Perlman, Joe Pesci, John Magaro, Steve Buscemi, Kat Elizabeth Williams, Anatol Yusef, Phillip Johnson Richardson, Charlize Orr, Ryan Bostedo, Kaili Vernoff, Jordyn Rax, Tim Gallin, Leo Solomon, Eugene Solfanelli, Milan Marsh, Ryan Bostedo, Darlene Dues, Beckett Guest, Zoe Tactuk, and Billy Griffith.*

      **SYNOPSIS:**

      The film follows a once-famous boxer as he embarks on a redemptive path through his past and present on the day of his first match after leaving prison. “Irish” Mike Flanagan (portrayed by a bulked-up Michael C. Pitt) hasn't fought in years. A former middleweight champion, his life spiraled due to alcoholism, leading to a tragic car accident that took the life of a young boy. It's noteworthy that Jack Huston's directorial debut, *Day of the Fight*, does not focus on redemption: Mike himself reveals that despite having punished himself during his time in prison and feeling "different" now that he is years away from the incident, he isn’t in pursuit of redemption.

      As the late 1980s approach, Mike receives the opportunity for his first boxing match since that fateful day, set to take place at Madison Square Garden and broadcast live. Complicating matters, his doctor informs him that he has blood clots in his brain from the accident, warning that any further injury could lead to an aneurysm. Unsurprisingly, this information doesn't dissuade Mike from going through with the fight. He even sells a family heirloom to stake money with a bookie, betting on himself despite overwhelming odds for a large payout.

      The stakes are raised knowing that Mike might die in the ring, with the money intended for his estranged wife Jessica (Nicolette Robinson) and daughter Sasha (Kat Elizabeth Williams). This notion casts a heavy sense of finality over the day in the life of a boxer concept. Whether it's his uncle (Steve Buscemi), his loyal trainer Stevie (Ron Perlman), a heartfelt lunch with Jessica, a long-time friend now a priest, or a visit to an assisted living facility to see his abusive father, who he has a complicated love/hate relationship with, an ominous dread looms, suggesting that this day serves as his last chance for reconciliation and a long march to the boxing ring.

      Shame, pain, and resentment are evident on Michael C. Pitt's face. He appears as someone who has genuinely transformed yet knows he can never forgive himself for his actions, nor can he expect forgiveness from others. He watches his daughter Sasha from a distance, feeling the pain of their likely irreparable relationship. This follows his unsuccessful attempt to write a letter to her, presumably for when he is gone, as he struggles to find the right words.

      Haunting flashbacks of the tragic incident plague him; he remembers moments of happiness with Jessica, and he grapples with the trauma of a childhood tainted by his father's verbal and physical abuse towards his mother. The fond memories are tinged with a muted color, contrasting with the monochrome visuals of the present, suggesting that such recollections are stained and will never be fully vibrant. The film’s black-and-white aesthetic could be seen as a tribute to Martin Scorsese’s *Raging Bull*, given that *Day of the Fight* itself is inspired by Stanley Kubrick’s short film of the same name. However, this interpretation may overshadow Jack Huston’s intent to blend substance with style.

      As previously noted, Mike’s pre-fight journey includes a visit to his now-nonverbal father, portrayed by Joe Pesci, who seems afflicted by dementia. Pesci's involvement in this film elevates its significance; he does not lend his talent to just any project at this stage of his career unless there is a personal connection and meaningful contribution. Ron Perlman and Steve Buscemi are always welcome, dependable, and entertaining, but Pesci's brief scene is a standout moment worth witnessing. He powerfully conveys emotion during the poignant interaction with his son, caught between momentary lucidity and a fog of regret over past actions. It’s not uncommon for a performer to receive a Supporting Actor nomination with limited screen time, and Pesci would certainly merit such recognition. His brief appearance leaves a lasting impression on Mike and the overall narrative.

      Admittedly, *Day of the Fight* carries an air of familiarity, clearly drawing on cinematic boxing tropes. The fight itself is expertly choreographed and edited, filled with rapid punches and suspense, creating uncertainty about the direction Jack Huston might take the fight and the film's outcome. Most importantly, every encounter here feels genuine and