Bleed for This
Re-telling the story of World Champion Boxer Vinny “The Pazmanian Devil” Pazienza (Miles Teller), who’s return to ring after a near fatal car crash would become legend in the boxing world. Guts, spirit, inspiration, and a little bit of crazy would go a long way, but would it go too far for Pazienza, this is his story.
Written and Directed by Ben Younger, the wellspring of inspirational sports stories seems far from dry in this classic fairytale of the comeback king, and for fans of the seedy underbelly of organized boxing no sweeter tale can be told. With ingredients including one part every Italian family dinner scene you’ve ever seen, two parts Rocky Balboa, a dash of Foxcatcher, and a pinch of Evander Holyfield’s ear (not really), you’ve got Bleed for This with a large and colorful ensemble with particular standouts from Teller and Aaron Eckhart as trainer Kevin Rooney. And, even though the genre isn’t exactly challenged by this story, there’s still a charm and allure that will land enough punches for the win. Bleed for This is rated R.