Million Dollar Baby
Warner Bros. Pictures | Release Date: December 15, 2004
7.5
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 625 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
502
Mixed:
34
Negative:
89
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User Reviews

User scoreBy dateMost helpful
9
cameronmorewoodNov 15, 2012
Swank, annoying as she is, uses everything we hate about her to plow into the the role. There'll be talks about the great performance she delivered. It wasn't great. The role just suited her. Eastwood and Freeman, on the other hand, are phenomenal.
4 of 4 users found this helpful40
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10
PigBenisDec 11, 2010
Best movie of all time. Greatest Acting by the main 3 actors, best directing in years, amazing script, completely absorbing.
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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9
MackeyJan 5, 2013
Strong and Powerful! A touching story proved with sweat and pain, and the same time - with beauty and grace of boxing goddess! This sport-drama is one which surely leaves a warm spark into our hearts!
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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9
BigZSep 10, 2014
There are few movies that can tug at me emotionally. But This one put me on the verge of tears. You fall in love with Swank and her character. The way she compliments the performances of Morgan Freeman and Clint Eastwood just creates aThere are few movies that can tug at me emotionally. But This one put me on the verge of tears. You fall in love with Swank and her character. The way she compliments the performances of Morgan Freeman and Clint Eastwood just creates a powerhouse of a movie. Well done. Boxing is a sport that tends to show up in movies a lot but that is only because it has so many metaphorical connotations and digs at our own willpower to be fighters in our own lives, which is personified in this film. It's a different angle considering the fighter is a female. It gives more room to broaden the audience and be a significant and entertaining stand point for both guys and girls. It confronts the conflict of families, what makes them and what breaks them. It brings reality to the cost of chasing a dream. Watch it. The end will make you want to strangle someone, or just cry, one of the two.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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10
KPSep 30, 2009
Let me first qualify that I've done many reviews on here and never given anything a 10. I save 10's for the rare movie that goes beyond being a movie. A movie that actually touches your soul. In addition to having tons of heart toLet me first qualify that I've done many reviews on here and never given anything a 10. I save 10's for the rare movie that goes beyond being a movie. A movie that actually touches your soul. In addition to having tons of heart to it, the story, acting, directing and score are all first rate as well. Anyone who rates this film less than an 8 clearly has serious personal issues. Films don't get much better than this.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
KivaAug 2, 2013
Million dollar baby is a story about a female boxer who decides in her early 30's to star boxing.She goes to a gym to exercise and there she finds a coach. Million times if you see that film a tear will come out from your eye. A depressiveMillion dollar baby is a story about a female boxer who decides in her early 30's to star boxing.She goes to a gym to exercise and there she finds a coach. Million times if you see that film a tear will come out from your eye. A depressive sport movie that it is really touching and it shows friendship and love. Million dollar baby also shows how difficult is for a person that loves you to decide whether you are going to live or die. Hillary Swank was amazing in that movie. I don't know how she did that. I actually thought that i was feeling what she was feeling. I don't understand the negative reviews and I don't want to spend any time telling my opinion for them and i simply understand that some people don't have a heart. That's all I have to say for that masterpiece.… Expand
4 of 6 users found this helpful42
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10
worleyjamersJun 8, 2013
A brilliant masterpiece! For me, this is one of the best films of the decade. This is the film that Clint Eastwood will be remembered for. Such a great, touching story. Hilary Swank and Morgan Freeman are simply stunning!
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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8
grandpajoe6191Oct 1, 2011
Clint Eastwood's "Million Dollar Baby" illustrates Hilary swank (Beast performance) as a under-seen boxer emerging to her fame and ultimately, to her downfall. As expected from Clint Eastwood, the film is filmed and written richly andClint Eastwood's "Million Dollar Baby" illustrates Hilary swank (Beast performance) as a under-seen boxer emerging to her fame and ultimately, to her downfall. As expected from Clint Eastwood, the film is filmed and written richly and immensely. It certainly is one of the year's best.… Expand
4 of 9 users found this helpful45
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4
GregMcCabeJun 26, 2012
Still amazes me that this got so much attention. Clint Eastwood is a great filmmaker and has made some masterpieces, but this movie was sluggish and simply too predictable. I love the surprises in Unforgiven and Gran Torino and severalStill amazes me that this got so much attention. Clint Eastwood is a great filmmaker and has made some masterpieces, but this movie was sluggish and simply too predictable. I love the surprises in Unforgiven and Gran Torino and several others, but this one was not even close to Clint's best. I even enjoyed J. Edgar better than this film.… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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5
Spielberg00Dec 2, 2011
Bottom Line: Best Picture? Iâ
1 of 4 users found this helpful13
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3
AbrahamssonMar 8, 2005
OVERRATED! This movie gets one point each for the dedication of Eastwood, Swank, and especially Freeman. But come on! The boxing throughout is portrayed in a very superficial, disingenuous manner, and I am by no means a boxing fan. A dozenOVERRATED! This movie gets one point each for the dedication of Eastwood, Swank, and especially Freeman. But come on! The boxing throughout is portrayed in a very superficial, disingenuous manner, and I am by no means a boxing fan. A dozen consecutive first round KOs? Why not aim for a little realism here? And the "twist." Let's just say that wouldn't happen, and if it did **SPOILER ALERT** they'd hang the "scabby kraut" from the rafters. Did Maggie really "not win"? She was felled by A Cheap Shot After the Bell. Hello DQ, followed by lynch mob.
The title character's family is the most ridiculous caricature of a selfish white trash family. Give them some kind of dimension, ANYthing. Instead, they're slaveringly selfish Mickey Mouse-emblazoned louts with thick drawls and thicker torsos. Ho hum.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
4
JoshCOct 9, 2006
One of Eastwood's worst movies, and one of the most overrated films in recent years. The plot was not orginal as Indira said. The film was formulaic and cliche ridden.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
MattF.May 7, 2008
I thought that this film was well-made; beautiful direction from Clint Eastwood and terrific performances from everyone in the cast. However, I had some problems with some of the material. The depiction of poor people in the film was I thought that this film was well-made; beautiful direction from Clint Eastwood and terrific performances from everyone in the cast. However, I had some problems with some of the material. The depiction of poor people in the film was ignorant and offensive; Haggis seems to think that all poor people are white-trash slobs who don't even care about their loved ones. Also, the film seems to think that one is better off dead than paralyzed, I suggest that Paul Haggis views "The Diving Bell and the Butterfly," the best film of 2007, and a much finer picture than this one.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
0
GuySep 12, 2005
Maudlin garbage. The worst example of emotional manipulation I've seen in a long time. As the tragedies piled on, I had a hard time keeping from laughing. The only excuse for this kind of contrived plotting is if it were actually true.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
4
BakerW.Feb 10, 2006
Good plot premise BUT...both Morgan Freeman and Clint Eastwood "mailed it in". They trotted out two-dimensional cliches of their characters. I doubt if director Eastwood was critical of any scenes either of them played in. Hilary Swank Good plot premise BUT...both Morgan Freeman and Clint Eastwood "mailed it in". They trotted out two-dimensional cliches of their characters. I doubt if director Eastwood was critical of any scenes either of them played in. Hilary Swank didn't look like even a woman boxer. The best performances were the actors playing the cheezy relatives playing for dough even as she realizes there is little hope. Eastwood should have been more self-critical & Freeman should have put more into his role. A mediocre effort from a talented ensemble.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
2
AstridFJun 9, 2007
Sorry, this is totally unbelievable. What a sentimental mess from beginning to end. I am trying to write something nice about this, but Mr Eastwood, I love you and therefore I forgive you for this.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
0
KenL.Sep 7, 2007
If there were a prize awarded for the largest collection of whopping fat cliches in a movie, this maudlin mess would win hands down over any movie in recent memory. It would also break the needle off the sentimentalometer. It's all If there were a prize awarded for the largest collection of whopping fat cliches in a movie, this maudlin mess would win hands down over any movie in recent memory. It would also break the needle off the sentimentalometer. It's all served up with the straightest of faces, a classic recipe for unintentional comedy. Yes, that's right, when maggie somehow manages to suffer a broken neck at the the hands of a malicious stool, i laughed. Whilst all around me, the sound of sniffling noses signalled breaking hearts by the score. perhaps someday when the impenetrable eastwood mystique finally begins to dissipate, people will awaken as if from a dream and say, … Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
0
MarcPosnerJan 15, 2005
came out of this movie furious -- and I'm a Clint Eastwood fan........

This movie is just an overbearing piece of propaganda for sanctioning euthanasia -- or as it is commonly known -- MURDER..... Life ain't fair, as thiscame out of this movie furious -- and I'm a Clint Eastwood fan........

This movie is just an overbearing piece of propaganda for sanctioning euthanasia -- or as it is commonly known -- MURDER.....

Life ain't fair, as this movie graphically illustrates,,,,,but murdering the unfortunate among us just makes it worse....

Yet another example of a film suggesting that "situational ethics" trump "absolute truths"

The Hollywood loonies could do us all a favor by taking some of those "painkillers" that Eastwood gave to Swank at the end of this disgusting film...… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful
3
JimF.Nov 8, 2005
Great actors and director... interesting story... terrible ending! I was looking forward to renting this move and enjoyed it right up to the final five minutes - it bothers me that murder is Ok if its done under the right circumstances or Great actors and director... interesting story... terrible ending! I was looking forward to renting this move and enjoyed it right up to the final five minutes - it bothers me that murder is Ok if its done under the right circumstances or for the right reason.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
0
ReneeRDec 4, 2005
Truly horrid film. The acting is contrived, the plot is unbelievably sappy and the concept overdone.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
0
JohnM.Mar 6, 2006
The worst boxing movie I have ever seen. In fact one of the worst movies ever made. You don't have to work too hard now days to fool people. For those who thought it was OK go and watch a proper boxing movie like Raging Bull. The movie The worst boxing movie I have ever seen. In fact one of the worst movies ever made. You don't have to work too hard now days to fool people. For those who thought it was OK go and watch a proper boxing movie like Raging Bull. The movie was clearly made for, well you know those less fortunate in society.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
0
JackTJan 14, 2007
Along with "Lost in Translation", one of the worst films of 00's. Clint's recent work has been crassly over praised. This film is sentimental, ridiculous and formulaic.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
4
CarlyG.May 19, 2007
Really not as good as it is described. Only in the mainstream Oscar industry it is. Compared to a independant film about euthenasia, million dollar baby is nothing.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
2
bobkorgJan 26, 2005
The most depressing film I've seen since Mystic River. MR was basically unrelenting in keeping my mood low but Million Dollar Baby was good for about the first 3/4's until the main character becomes a quadrapelegic, then has herThe most depressing film I've seen since Mystic River. MR was basically unrelenting in keeping my mood low but Million Dollar Baby was good for about the first 3/4's until the main character becomes a quadrapelegic, then has her legs amputated, then wants to die but can't get any assistance so she bites her tongue to try to bleed to death, then is saved but keeps trying to kill herself, then finally succeeds in getting help to die. Fortunately, I survived this movie and learned that I will have to do more thorough research before going to a film.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
AlyE.Aug 22, 2005
Simply put, this movie was just not good. I was so excited when it came out on DVD because I felt left out during the Oscars. Now that I've seen it, I think people say it's good because the "right" people say it's good Simply put, this movie was just not good. I was so excited when it came out on DVD because I felt left out during the Oscars. Now that I've seen it, I think people say it's good because the "right" people say it's good (Hollywood is, after all, an industry of followers who can't form their own opinions). But the "right" people have been wrong about a lot lately (Aviator, Sideways, etc.). None of the actors had any depth, the story was too long, and the plot was both unbelievable and predictable. The writers didn't develop the B-line at all (Frank's alienation from his daughter) and Maggie's family was just too exaggerated to be believed. Actually, the only likeable character in the movie was Dangerous! I tried to convince myself that the movie was good-- that perhaps I was just distracted or apathetic-- but turns out, my gut instinct was right: Million Dollar Baby is another Hollywood miss that got backed by the right people because of Clint Eastwood.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
0
high90Mar 1, 2014
will i watch million dollar baby or will i stick a needle in my eye. Its a difficult decision but i think il go with the needle. Why anyone would want to watch this miserable pile of crap is beyond me but the taste of the unwashed masseswill i watch million dollar baby or will i stick a needle in my eye. Its a difficult decision but i think il go with the needle. Why anyone would want to watch this miserable pile of crap is beyond me but the taste of the unwashed masses generally does. Avoid like the plague… Expand
0 of 4 users found this helpful04
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10
bfoore90Apr 19, 2017
Clint Eastwood's best and brightest, a true masterpiece if there ever was one in the realm of sports dramas. Even as the film approaches 14 years, it still is incredibly well written and extremely well acted for its time as well as incrediblyClint Eastwood's best and brightest, a true masterpiece if there ever was one in the realm of sports dramas. Even as the film approaches 14 years, it still is incredibly well written and extremely well acted for its time as well as incredibly touching till the very end. Few films weigh as heavy on you like Million Dollar Baby, its a riveting powerhouse of a film.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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8
heeldavidJun 5, 2014
Clint Eastwood's Million Dollar Baby is undoubtedly one of the best of the 2000s, great direction from Eastwood, great performances from Swank, Eastwood, Freeman and the talented supporting cast
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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9
BetterOffDead_Jun 5, 2014
Million Dollar Baby is about a passionate female boxer who wants to make it with the guidance of frankie dunn played by (clint eastwood) clint eastwod also directed this movie and did a great job of it. hillary swank delivers a greatMillion Dollar Baby is about a passionate female boxer who wants to make it with the guidance of frankie dunn played by (clint eastwood) clint eastwod also directed this movie and did a great job of it. hillary swank delivers a great performance in this as well as the rest of the cast. dont want to give much away, but this is a just see!… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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3
BroyaxFeb 23, 2018
Million Dollar Baby fait partie de ces films qui n'ont qu'un seul but : faire chialer le public ; il n'a d'ailleurs été fait que dans ce seul but avec les 3 petites notes de piano récurrentes qui n'ont pas d'autre but que d'ouvrir les vannesMillion Dollar Baby fait partie de ces films qui n'ont qu'un seul but : faire chialer le public ; il n'a d'ailleurs été fait que dans ce seul but avec les 3 petites notes de piano récurrentes qui n'ont pas d'autre but que d'ouvrir les vannes (en grand).

A cet effet, le scénario met tous les moyens en oeuvre pour que les vannes restent ouvertes non seulement au bon moment mais également un peu avant, progressivement, et de plus en plus jusqu'à l'inondation finale. Clint en fait donc des tonnes, à la fois dans le pathos et la misère sociale, à faire mourir de honte les Misérables de notre grand Victor Hugo national.

Or, trop c'est trop, on n'est quand même pas complètement con même si son chiale avec les autres, parce que c'est triste, oui, mais c'est clairement exagéré et le mot est faible, très faible. On en arrive à un tel point que lorsqu'ils coupent la pauvrette, on s'esclaffe... la coupe est pleine, Clint, arrête ça déborde ! mais rassurez-vous, on garde des larmes en réserve pour la toute fin.

C'est dommage d'en avoir rajouté autant, car la crédibilité est sérieusement mise à mal, y compris lors de "l'accident", invraisemblable... Dommage également pour la justesse des sentiments, de cette amitié qui se construit entre la boxeuse et son manager, entre la fille paumée et le vieux bougre. Même qu'on s'habituait au rabâchage de la voix off du barbon Morgan Freeman, toujours prêt à pérorer à la moindre occasion...

Le drame, que dis-je, le mélodrame est un genre très difficile et on a vite fait de tomber dans la caricature, ce dont ce bon vieux Clint ne se prive décidément pas à maintes reprises. Encore dommage pour Hilary pas vraiment hilarante sur ce coup mais qui sait rester la plus sobre des trois entre elle et les bonzes désabusés : elle interprète excellement cette ingénue du malheur...

...malgré les seaux d'eau que lui balance Papy parce que Papy Clint trouve qu'il n'y en a pas assez. Tout cela est gâché, sévèrement gâché alors que pourtant la mise en scène est d'une remarquable précision... j'allais dire "sobre" mais avec un scénar' pareil, on repassera.

La pleurnicherie à un million de dollars donc... mais qui ne les vaut certainement pas.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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10
JohnnyWMar 20, 2005
It boggles the mind that some people cannot appreciate this for the masterpiece it is. Sure, MAYBE some of the events wouldn't have happened the way they did in the movie, but in the end, isn't the only thing that matters the storyIt boggles the mind that some people cannot appreciate this for the masterpiece it is. Sure, MAYBE some of the events wouldn't have happened the way they did in the movie, but in the end, isn't the only thing that matters the story the film tells? Don't tell me you can't suspend your disbelief just a little bit.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JessicaB.Mar 9, 2005
GREAT MOVIE!!!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
ryanj.Aug 27, 2005
Well written and thought out film that actually addresses some of the issues we see in society today. The score was a little overdone in some places but the general flow of the film was enjoyable and left the viewer to contemplate his/her Well written and thought out film that actually addresses some of the issues we see in society today. The score was a little overdone in some places but the general flow of the film was enjoyable and left the viewer to contemplate his/her own issues related to the ending.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
PatC.Aug 30, 2005
Nice flow, many genuinely poignant moments. A little pretentious in spots (an east German prostitute boxer who fights dirty, come on), and ultimately enlightened defeatism, but genuinely so. Great energetic can-do performance by Swank.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
HenryV.Apr 8, 2007
Never hits a false note, never breaks from its melancholy, reminiscent tone.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
ShayneR.Mar 4, 2008
Any movie that can achieve such depth of character deserves greater respect than this movie seems to be getting. There are three major characters all of which are amazingly realistic!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
BhiveshB.Jun 3, 2008
The Academy Awards' jury has a tendency to favour those dramatic motion pictures that feature protagonists' lives opersating on many levels. Million Dollar Baby is the winner of Best Motion Picture of 2004 at the 77th Academy The Academy Awards' jury has a tendency to favour those dramatic motion pictures that feature protagonists' lives opersating on many levels. Million Dollar Baby is the winner of Best Motion Picture of 2004 at the 77th Academy Awards, besides winning three more Oscars including the one for Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role, played by Hilary Swank. But for me this movie is chiefly about the anguished life of its male protagonist, Frank Dunn, a senile boxing trainer trying to make amends for his disturbing elusive past. He is guilt-ridden and attends the Mass everyday. He writes to his (estranged) daughter every week, hoping for a reconciliation with her. And we do not have to wait for long until we find out that his other actions are equally unclear. Their motive(s) is/are never described: (1) He is shown as attending the Mass for twenty-three years, but why he keeps pissing off the Father by asking real inane religious questions is never hinted at. (2) What is the reason behind his constant attempt to learn Gaelic? We cannot come close to even guess that. Is it his hobby-horse or is it just another minute revelation connected to his unknown past? Answer for yourself. (3) Why does Frank try to prevent Willie Jones to have his shot, until the latter loses his patience and finally leaves the old trainer ending eight-years of their professional bonding. But one thing ramains clear: Frankie's life experiences really proves that if a life's course is that of his, then indeed "Tough ain't Enough". What is required in addition to toughness is endurance-an endurnce to fight with your inner demon, to be able to sustain by grappling with melancholy memories, haunting thoughts and a hopeless existence. Frank Dunn painstakingly manages to do that. What really thrilled me about this movie are not the boxing fights, most of which I believe have been handled amateurishly, but its intense climax. You just quietly (and sadly) watch Maggie's physical condition going from bad to worse, ultimately reaching a deadlock when her existence only indicates a virtual endless death-in-life experience. This calls for her release in euthanasia, which is given to her by Frank thus increasing his own anguish to its highest level. The act leaves Frank alone and despair, gloomy and with probably a single hope to attain absolution, sooner than later. But till that hope sustains, he attempts to find a little peace at "a place set in the cedars and oak trees, somewhere between nowhere and goodbye. But that's probably wishful thinking." This psychologically motivating and emotionally engaging movie is worth a watch. Strictly recommendable! … Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
MichaelMargetisFeb 25, 2005
The Best Film of the Year. On the outside 'Million Dollar Baby' seems like a boxing picture, but it's really a character study of the three characters involved (played expertly by Clint Eastwood, Hilary Swank and MorganThe Best Film of the Year. On the outside 'Million Dollar Baby' seems like a boxing picture, but it's really a character study of the three characters involved (played expertly by Clint Eastwood, Hilary Swank and Morgan Freeman). Before I saw the film, I thought it was going to be a tacky and sappy girl boxing movie, but it wasn't. I find even after I've seen it, it's hard to convince people the film is not like that, and it's not a conventional formulatic boxing film like Rocky, but that it is something a hell of a lot deeper. After seeing the film for a second time, I found that it really has no weak points other then being a little slow towards the beginning (which was essential in order to tell the story correctly.) Clint Eastwood not only does an outstanding job directing this soon-to-be-classic, but he also produces the film, composes a spellbinding musical score, and gives his very best screen performance as Frankie Dunn, a down-on-his-luck boxing manager who decides to take on a wannabe female boxer. Morgan Freeman provides us with a quiet yet extremely effective performance as Frankie's long-time friend and partner. Not only does Freeman play this part, but his character narrates the story, so the whole movie is told from this character's perspective. The on-screen chemistry between Eastwood and Freeman is too incredible for words, a chemistry that was only once before seen in 1992's Best Picture winner 'Unforgiven', that was also made by Eastwood. The best peformance of the film obviously comes from Hilary Swank as the average trailer-trash restaurant waitress who's one true passion is for boxing. Swank delivers a tour-de-force performance, and along with Eastwood it's also her best on-screen acting performance. Ms. Swank knows her character very well, and it shows that she didn't just memorize the lines of the character, but she embodied the character. Overall, when you see the film you don't see the three actors, but the characters they portray. 'Million Dollar Baby' is my choice for Best Picture, along with the Oscars for Best Actress, Best Supporting Actor, Best Director, Best Film Editing and Best Original Score. I give
'Million Dollar Baby' an 'A'.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JimH.Aug 29, 2005
Incredible Movie. Acting first rate.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
EduardoR.Jan 8, 2006
A bitter movie, Million Dollar Baby shows, in a direct and merciless way, several aspecets of our miserable cruel lives. If you enjoy seeing the same old predictable stuff on the screen, this is NOT a movie for you.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JustinC.Mar 2, 2006
The actors don't play the characters, they breathe them. The essence of emotion was never better captured by anything in recent cinema.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
SofiaD.Apr 5, 2006
It is the best movie I have ever seen. It is sensitive as much as entertaining. I have never seen such a great mix of such deep emotions. It was the first movie that has made me cry.!!! It needs to be good!!!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
patrickd.Oct 15, 2005
A drama about triumph that triumphs itself. I think I will have a hard time choosing: This or Vertigo?, for my #1 movie.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
GregMillerMar 13, 2005
The thing about boxing movies is there are very few possible endings: either our boxer wins or our boxer loses, with few exceptions, which in my mind excuses some of the cliches here. This movie deserves all the praise it has received: it isThe thing about boxing movies is there are very few possible endings: either our boxer wins or our boxer loses, with few exceptions, which in my mind excuses some of the cliches here. This movie deserves all the praise it has received: it is wonderfully written, beautifully acted, poignant and sparse, like Mystic River. Eastwood has an eye for great films. Some of the characters are flat, but there does not NEED to be more than three rounded characters in a film, especially this one, so I did not mind Maggie's horrible family: for godssakes, it's incredible that Hollywood has produced a movie with round characters in the first place. And I cannot understand the argument of Eastwood's "politics" that have so offended: this movie, like all good movies, does not argue one way or the other: what is important is that you believe Maggie asked him for it, and that you believe Frankie did it, because it is in the end about the characters involved. Anyone so caught up in the "politics" here has mistaken this drama for something done by Michael Moore.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
SamAug 25, 2005
Alright, people that hated this, I don't care. I think this movie is an excellent film. Sure, it's a bit dreary and dark, but not all THAT dark Dave S. I love this movie, one of the best films of all time. After crap like against Alright, people that hated this, I don't care. I think this movie is an excellent film. Sure, it's a bit dreary and dark, but not all THAT dark Dave S. I love this movie, one of the best films of all time. After crap like against the ropes, it's good that great boxing films like This and Cinderella Man are in the picture.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
XavierR.Sep 20, 2005
Great movie. One of my all-time favorites, and among the best in '04. Hilary Swank is amazing. A definite must-see.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
HugoR.Sep 29, 2005
One of the best movies I've seen lately.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
oferDec 30, 2006
No one does it better then Mr. Clint, his films reminds us why we love movies so much.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
DanielK.Jun 26, 2006
This movie made me crying. it reached me really! it tells much about us humans and made me write a book "Sinn des Lebens"! it tells about our dreams hopes and what hurts us. i want to say: EVERYONE WHO THINKS THIS IS A BOXINGFILM IS A FOOL! This movie made me crying. it reached me really! it tells much about us humans and made me write a book "Sinn des Lebens"! it tells about our dreams hopes and what hurts us. i want to say: EVERYONE WHO THINKS THIS IS A BOXINGFILM IS A FOOL! that the boxing scenes are only secondary. this is one of the best films ive ever seen.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
AliciaV.Jun 4, 2006
This movie is riveting. Definetly on the top list.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
ChristopherJ.Mar 17, 2007
I had very strong emotions when watching the injustice and irony in this film. It wasn't annoying, though. I liked it--I perceived it as sincere.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
RirenApr 29, 2007
Swank, Eastwood and Freeman make this a must-see movie. Million Dollar Baby has a plethora of loose plot threads and a tendency to forget plot elements and randomly bring them up again 30 or 60 minutes later, but mirky directing can't Swank, Eastwood and Freeman make this a must-see movie. Million Dollar Baby has a plethora of loose plot threads and a tendency to forget plot elements and randomly bring them up again 30 or 60 minutes later, but mirky directing can't detract from three of the best performances in recent film history. The trio portray deep, sympathetic characters with three of the earthiest relationships, each a delight to follow until the disappointing ending. The story doesn't build to a climax or a final act; the final act falls onto the film, and is so out of place that it takes a half an hour to get its barings again. It's a sensationalist and provocative ending, melancholy and hard to fight morally, but it just isn't earned by where the film goes in its first 85 minutes - and the movie notices this, summoning more mood lighting and mood music than is noticeable in the rest of the picture. Also be warned that Million Dollar Baby is not a boxing movie. It's not a sports movie. It's a human drama that happens to take place in a gym a lot of the time. The fights are handled terribly, from the early montage of unbelievable knockouts to the final match that unfolds more like a bad pro wrestling match than something from televised boxing. Still I implore you, see this movie for these three performances. It will be a long time before we get three more like them, especially in the same picture.… Expand
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9
NickA.May 27, 2007
Two words can best sum up this movie, brilliant and depressing! Hilary Swank gives a superb performance as a girl trying to make something of herself and leaving her past behind. Clint Eastwood and Morgan Freeman give great performances Two words can best sum up this movie, brilliant and depressing! Hilary Swank gives a superb performance as a girl trying to make something of herself and leaving her past behind. Clint Eastwood and Morgan Freeman give great performances aswell. This was a knock-out but be warned I've seen many a sad film and this IMO was almost too sad and left me almost reaching for the Samaritans!… Expand
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10
OrangeV.Oct 16, 2005
To see films like :Napolean Dynamyte, Batman Begins, and Pirates of the Carribbean have a higer score (by users) makes me sick.
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10
CathyH.Jan 23, 2006
Anyone that pans this movie needs to have his/her head examined.
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8
AmitS.May 27, 2006
Despite being full to the brim with clichés, it's difficult not to wrap yourself up in this film.
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10
IndiraR.Aug 24, 2006
This plot of this movie is original. The performance of Hilary Swank as a boxer is startling. I am still amazed by the way she trained in order to get out of the poverty. What a film!
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10
SeanP.Feb 19, 2007
Wow. Years ago, i loved Mystic River and Unforgiven, but i skipped this movie. Then, recently, i just saw Letters from Iwo Jima, and after loving that, I finally went back and saw this. Gawd, what a director Eastwood is; his spare, autumnal, Wow. Years ago, i loved Mystic River and Unforgiven, but i skipped this movie. Then, recently, i just saw Letters from Iwo Jima, and after loving that, I finally went back and saw this. Gawd, what a director Eastwood is; his spare, autumnal, solemn, measured style, mostly apparent in this and Letters, reminds me, i kid you not, of prime Ingmar Bergman. Also, I agree with Daniel K. below: this is NOT a boxing film, in the same way that Raging Bull was not a boxing film, and that Hoop Dreams was not a basketball film. Like those classics, Million Dollar Baby is a powerful human drama that just happens to have a sport in it as a backdrop, more as a setting than a subject. And, ironically, that method is what makes the greatest sports films. If you have the patience and are in the mood for a carefully paced and consistently somber film, and you don't require explosions and gross-out humor and staccato MTV editing, you'll appreciate this movie. For everyone else, i'm sorry.… Expand
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10
VasilisP.Mar 28, 2007
100% human and sensitive film. Thanks Mr. Eastwood
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10
MattMay 14, 2007
It is really disappointing that metacritic accepts critical reviews from places like salon.com and Slate. They are obviously no more knowledgable about film than Joe Schmoe at your local Dunkin Donuts. Million Dollar Baby is unquestionably It is really disappointing that metacritic accepts critical reviews from places like salon.com and Slate. They are obviously no more knowledgable about film than Joe Schmoe at your local Dunkin Donuts. Million Dollar Baby is unquestionably one of the two or three best films of the past ten years. It upsets me that its overall ranking is sullied by these two completely hack "news" organizations.… Expand
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10
CraigS.Nov 29, 2008
For those of you saying the movie is too "depressing" I would like to know how on earth that makes it a bad movie. For god's sake, some of you have given it a 2, simply because it was too depressing. Maybe the fact it had such a huge For those of you saying the movie is too "depressing" I would like to know how on earth that makes it a bad movie. For god's sake, some of you have given it a 2, simply because it was too depressing. Maybe the fact it had such a huge impact on you is evidence that it had the desired effect? Not all great movies are endlessly life-affirming.… Expand
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10
NicholasR.Nov 29, 2008
The viewer scores on this movie are ridiculous. Please, some of you. Grow a brain.
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10
rollingstone82Aug 20, 2010
The greatest contemporary tragedy of 21st century cinema thus far.

Inspirational movies are always the top choice with conscious parents who want their kids to be well influenced. I don't deny it. Usually, inspirational films involve sports.The greatest contemporary tragedy of 21st century cinema thus far.

Inspirational movies are always the top choice with conscious parents who want their kids to be well influenced. I don't deny it. Usually, inspirational films involve sports. Which is okay because I like films like Hoosiers and Rocky. But the biggest fault with such movies is that they follow a formula too often. The joy of watching them is lost because we pretty much know what to expect. I don't like sports films because of this: everytime, there is a sad and pathetic team lifted up by a bright coach. The dialogue when not in inspirational mode then becomes dull and boring. Sports films ultimately make me feel cheated because the real movie is only available in parts thanks to a cliched and overcooked story.

This film is not about sports. It isn't unusual because great films ironically don't have much to do with sports (Raging Bull is the best example). And Million Dollar Baby is drama. Well-played and tearjerking drama.

The film stars Clint Eastwood as a down-on-luck boxing trainer, Frank Dunn. He has the most thankless role in the sport and struggles to make contact with his daughter, after years of turmoil. His buddy, ex-boxer "Scrap Iron" (Morgan Freeman) is his moral support, the man with sense in the atmosphere of despair and loss. Then comes Maggie (Hilary Swank), a waitress who aspires to be a professional boxer but cannot due to her age and the fact that she is a woman. Maggie, despite Frank's refusal to train her, persists by training every day ignoring the jeers of the other boxers. Finally Scrap convinces Frank to train her and what follows is a journey of persistence, love, and ultimately tragedy.

The whole atmosphere of Million Dollar Baby is dark. There is hardly any vivid color. It is a tense time of strain and despair. And that is what Eastwood wants us to feel. There is no happiness. This is reality in one of the harshest degrees. Even the screenplay says so. But when Maggie and Frank work together, things take a slight turn towards the light. Both Frank and Maggie have a lack of connection with their respective families. Frank's daughter is ashamed of Frank while Maggie's family mocks her for her profession while living off her profits. Frank and Maggie's working relationship as trainer and trainee transitions into an ideal father-daughter relationship, something that both lacked. Frank finds Maggie as the daughter he lost and Maggie finds Frank as the father she never had. And it is this relationship that rises the movie above its inspirational/sports film genre. And when all fell down, I never felt the same. I felt as depressed as Frank was by the end of the movie.

It is impossible to have an inspirational film without its appropriate actors. For Eastwood, it is another performance that doesn't require excessive emotionality. But he fits perfectly as a pessimistic boxer who seamlessly transforms into a man with heart and back again. But he would not have gained the heart had it not been for his support. Morgan Freeman does another wonderful performance as a supporting actor. He proves to be a man of strength, vitality, and sense. But Swank is the movie (her role is also referenced in the movie's title). She wants to prove she is a capable boxer despite gender and age. She, like Frank, is caught in the grasps of pain but tries to ease it by becoming a great boxer. And when the pain is almost victorious, the way she begged Frank to "release" her made me cry not out of mere sympathy but love.

One point a critic may point out is the inconsistency of Maggie's role as she evolves from a person of inspiration to a depressed, hospitalized, and suicidal patient. But the movie inside isn't inspirational, in a sense. It is an assessment of human and societal nature and how two people struggle to survive in such hostile environments that eventually gets the better of them. The inspirational note in the film is not a victory but a message of hope that the world will change its ways for the better.… Expand
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10
RONGIUAug 29, 2010
Sorry for the translation, is mechanical.

Million Dollar Baby has so much original, the drama of three people. They are stories that affect you directly, powerfully enter into your deepest instincts and the reason is because they are trueSorry for the translation, is mechanical.

Million Dollar Baby has so much original, the drama of three people. They are stories that affect you directly, powerfully enter into your deepest instincts and the reason is because they are true stories that can happen to you, your family, your neighbor and displayed without veils. Take it or leave it. Probably what has "taken" my emotion was the presence on stage of a woman and a woman with a fighting spirit out of the ordinary.
This allows me to say that in "Million Dollar Baby" all the experience of Eastwood is made available for learning the "cadets filmmakers" and also because it was possible to add, I think, to many film called "classical" another. Eastwood manages to give us an endless alternation of emotions as if it were established and marked by a metronome, now slow hour fast.
About rhythm, the film is accompanied by music by Eastwood and narrated by Eddie Dupris, "Scrap Iron" (Morgan Freeman), former boxer Frankie (Eastwood) has trained years ago and which the manager. Scrap is a real thorn in the soul of Frankie.The two friends carry with them so frustrating and painful burden of their stories. Different but converging. if only to regret that decision probably a "past" taken in a different way would have given a different ending to their lives. The "hardness film" director, in which more than fifty years are used in this film even dissolves in tears and certainly chose the place and the right time to pay.
Frankie, professional box with years of experience as a manager and at the same time away from the professional circuit has a second chance to "return" with Maggie Fitzgerald (Hilary Swank). Swank has a starring role that in every sense, certainly comparable to the performance of Boys Do not Cry. " I said, Maggie is a waitress who receives a resounding "No!" When presented at the gym run by Frankie. The motivation is twofold. Does not train women boxers, and a thirty year old has little chance of achieving ambitious goals.
Frankie, however, only later realizes that it faces a woman determined and disciplined. Discipline gained from the "Life", which always knows how to be a teacher when he finds disciples willing to listen and to learn to translate its many meanings silences. Maggie spring. Why not let the "Life" have been told that only Frankie can help you achieve the desired objective. Fighting for the world title. Convinced for various reasons, Frankie, Maggie and Scrap start a new migration with new feelings, new feelings. Their flight is more often excitedly, almost never gliding. Maggie is found to have a meeting with the family and will be a meeting that will take effect ...
Million Dollar Baby is a film in which the personal spaces, intimate and filled are affected by a tragedy of enormous dimensions. Due because of what men can do better, particularly in sport, "not respecting the rules." "Winning at all costs." But woe to judge the choices of "others," especially if the choices are existence, what "do" with their lives. "Other" always deserve the utmost respect. Why? Why put it like a "fist meeting" that can prematurely close a match is not true that things only ever happen to "others".
The three main characters are actors and forever and this is, in my opinion, the strength of this film that catapulted him overwhelmingly in the masterpieces.

Good Ciak!… Expand
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4
markymarkDec 4, 2015
SPOILER

Such an overrated film. Tired narrator device (narrator!!! we'll get Morgan Freeman to play the same role he's played 345 times before), woefully unconvincing and contrived plot and possible the worst, tension-killing,SPOILER

Such an overrated film. Tired narrator device (narrator!!! we'll get Morgan Freeman to play the same role he's played 345 times before), woefully unconvincing and contrived plot and possible the worst, tension-killing, stereotypical characterisation of a family in cinematic history. Second half of the film is intensely boring as the ridiculousness of the writing killed any emotional impact that was supposed to be felt. I was so happy when she finally died because it meant the film was going to end. Gets a 4 because Eastwood (in particular) was great and Swank was very good - not their fault the screenplay was so atrocious. Worst winner of a Best Picture Oscar in my time (although Braveheart came close).… Expand
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10
ShahmeerApr 30, 2011
I know most of my reviews consist of 10/10, but that's because I think lots of movies are excellent. And so is this one. By all means, one of the best films I have ever seen. Million Dollar Baby is more than just a film about boxing, it'sI know most of my reviews consist of 10/10, but that's because I think lots of movies are excellent. And so is this one. By all means, one of the best films I have ever seen. Million Dollar Baby is more than just a film about boxing, it's about believing, never-giving-up, and the harsh reality of life. And truly, life. Is hard. The film has so many memorable moments. The acting, the directing, the story is all spectacular. Ive never seen a film like this. Million Dollar Baby is about a boxing trainer and manager, Frankie (Eastwood). A woman, Margaret Fitzgerald (Swank), wants him to train her. Frankie claims he can't train her, but as she grows in potential and determination, he starts to. The story follows Maggie and Frankie as they try to fulfill their dreams, and show the world that they believe. Unlike no other film I have ever seen, the acting in th
Is film is just riveting. Clint Eastwood deserved an Academy win, not a nomination. His acting was just moving and amazing throughout. He wasn't a lovable character, but Clint showed his character had a heart and was memorable all the same. Hillary Swank was outstanding, deserving her Oscar. Morgan Freeman is always a man to love. His comedic, nonchalant acting in this was stupendous. No wonder people always say he should get an Oscar for every film he does. The directing from Clint Eastwood was great, too. He always knows how to make a movie the right way. He should be directing all the intelligent and moving films out there, and then Hollywood would be even better than it is now. In the end, the movie is all about believing, which is risking it all for a dream that nobody sees...but you.
10/10… Expand
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8
csw12Jul 4, 2013
The chemistry between Freeman, Swank and Eastwood work together perfectly in this knock out of a film. Eastwood does an amazing job of engaging the viewer such that they are more than just an observer but are involved in these people's lives
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10
JuanoloApr 1, 2012
This is a 10 out of 10 movie. Great performances. Everyone gives just phenomenal performances. Story is quite remarkable. Score is good. Boxing. Matches are well made. They look great. This is one of the best sports movie ever. Overall, thisThis is a 10 out of 10 movie. Great performances. Everyone gives just phenomenal performances. Story is quite remarkable. Score is good. Boxing. Matches are well made. They look great. This is one of the best sports movie ever. Overall, this is a great film. You really should see it. It such a remarkable film.… Expand
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8
JuanSebastianDec 25, 2015
Incredible touching till the end. I never imagined this movie would make me cry but it did. I think this screenplay was a great one, works really good. But this screenplay would be nothing without the fantastic direction by Clint Eastwood,Incredible touching till the end. I never imagined this movie would make me cry but it did. I think this screenplay was a great one, works really good. But this screenplay would be nothing without the fantastic direction by Clint Eastwood, acting was great too.The highlight in Million Dollar Baby I think is the strong characters that the writers created, tragic and emotional stories that relates immediately to viewer. One of my favorites movies now I've watched it.… Expand
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8
SpangleApr 5, 2014
I have seen a lot of films that have been left me emotionally reeling, but nothing like this. This film was not at all what I was expecting and I totally love that about it. Hillary Swank and Clint Eastwood were phenomenal in this film and II have seen a lot of films that have been left me emotionally reeling, but nothing like this. This film was not at all what I was expecting and I totally love that about it. Hillary Swank and Clint Eastwood were phenomenal in this film and I also absolutely loved Clint Eastwood's direction. His dark, moody direction worked perfectly here and really helped to define this film for me. Really, though, at the end of the day, this is a character driven film and both Swank and Eastwood carry this film together as a team and bring it past the finish line. It is tough to write about a film like this, aside from telling you to watch it if you have not. If you have, you know what I mean. Great film.… Expand
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9
Compi24Jan 27, 2015
Yes, its ending will undoubtedly tear your soul out and shred it into a thousand pieces, but there's more than enough to admire in Clint Eastwood's "Million Dollar Baby" a spectacularly directed, written, and acted drama that fits snugglyYes, its ending will undoubtedly tear your soul out and shred it into a thousand pieces, but there's more than enough to admire in Clint Eastwood's "Million Dollar Baby" a spectacularly directed, written, and acted drama that fits snuggly within the impressive pantheon of Best Picture Oscar winners.… Expand
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10
BradySmithJul 17, 2014
One of the best movies I've ever seen. The ending may be morally confused, but from a critical standpoint I really can't find any flaws in the whole movie. It's so poignant, so powerfully acted, and so well written that I'm going to go outOne of the best movies I've ever seen. The ending may be morally confused, but from a critical standpoint I really can't find any flaws in the whole movie. It's so poignant, so powerfully acted, and so well written that I'm going to go out on a limb and call it a true masterpiece. Eastwood's direction is impeccable, and the film's emotions feel real, natural, and unforced. The characters also seem like real people instead of just the usual cardboard cutouts. I could go on forever. This movie is great.… Expand
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9
MovieGuysSep 19, 2013
Million Dollar Baby is a very emotional drama about boxing, and actually competes with Rocky for the title of best boxing movie. Stallone might win, but this movie definitely deserves the silver medal.
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10
neologoNov 13, 2013
Great Movie the ending almost made me cry. its not like other movies because there is no guns or sex and crap it is just a simple movie.so 10/10. watch the movie now!
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10
chwOct 18, 2014
Million Dollar Baby was awesome. Jay Baruchel acts as if he acts the way he does all the time, same with Morgan Freeman, Clint Eastwood, and Hilary Swank.
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7
Meth-dudeJan 4, 2019
With great acting performances, an interesting and well executed story and a surprisingly dark ending, Million Dollar Baby is a very well made movie. Well worth the watch.
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10
HaithamBAug 25, 2014
Million Dollar Baby is a masterpiece that I honestly predicted a cheesy ending for. When I was near the third act I stopped guessing, and tears forced out of my eyes because this movie hits the right note at the appropriate time, when itMillion Dollar Baby is a masterpiece that I honestly predicted a cheesy ending for. When I was near the third act I stopped guessing, and tears forced out of my eyes because this movie hits the right note at the appropriate time, when it ended I was totally convinced this is a great showpiece, and I still am.… Expand
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7
solomsApr 17, 2015
The greatest Hilary Swank movie. I really cryied... That heart of Courage and that friendship betwen her and the coach give something really special to the movie. I loved it!
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7
RalfbergsFeb 2, 2018
Even though I can see why this movie has gathered so much good reviews I think it misses something to truly be one of the greats - of course it has great acting and you get to root for a female boxer there. But the story, I think it lacksEven though I can see why this movie has gathered so much good reviews I think it misses something to truly be one of the greats - of course it has great acting and you get to root for a female boxer there. But the story, I think it lacks something, like some kind of a lesson or something in it. Basically as I knew how the movie ends, it actually spoiled me about half the story if not more. And that's just because I knew about one of the plot points before watching it.… Expand
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10
ToThePointAug 3, 2015
A story of attaining hard fought self-respect. Packed with boxing action and insight that stimulates intellectually and emotionally. Brilliant and moving. Another hit for Clint Eastwood, a premier director of our generation.
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10
alejandro970Jun 14, 2019
The well known boxer drama, now in different style. Hillary Swank in the shoes of a battling woman, who came in rags and starving, in her dazzling rise to glory and rough downsizing to zero, mixed to heart breaking plea of the right ofThe well known boxer drama, now in different style. Hillary Swank in the shoes of a battling woman, who came in rags and starving, in her dazzling rise to glory and rough downsizing to zero, mixed to heart breaking plea of the right of dying. A must to see a rainy evening.… Expand
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10
TheRussianatorMar 28, 2018
Clint Eastwood's "Million Dollar Baby" is another masterpiece from an already legendary director/actor. Some may think it is another boxing movie about an underdog, but they would be very wrong. The acting is exceptional and the charactersClint Eastwood's "Million Dollar Baby" is another masterpiece from an already legendary director/actor. Some may think it is another boxing movie about an underdog, but they would be very wrong. The acting is exceptional and the characters are deep. Especially stands out Morgan Freeman as an old boxing trainer and a friend of Eastwood's character.… Expand
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9
amheretojudgeFeb 8, 2019
A Good Bold Deed.

Million Dollar Baby Eastwood makes it look easy. It's as simple as that, over the years, watching him blend in, in all sorts of genre there never seems any doubt how much he adores the cinema. There is mutual love andA Good Bold Deed.

Million Dollar Baby

Eastwood makes it look easy. It's as simple as that, over the years, watching him blend in, in all sorts of genre there never seems any doubt how much he adores the cinema. There is mutual love and respect, if there is sincerity in Eastwood's methods, the response is equally charming. Magnanimous is his vision and is exactly what he gets. But above all what fascinates me the most is how he reserves his persona on both on and off screen, I hardly remember yelling him ever on screen, Freeman had to jump in and point out, "You think she can hear you from here?" The answer is yes. She does; she may not follow it but she does.

The cathartic equation of this trio is the root of the film. With humor as slick as their body language- few lines from Baruchel doesn't fit in appropriately though- and flamboyancy on their rhythm that makes you scream for its awesomeness, it makes you want to warp back to your childhood days, never has someone loved something such unconditionally. It is for all the drama we crave for, we are not aware of where it can take us, but somehow we have been craving for it.

This has never been a sports genre for me, I couldn't care less about those knockout punches, I am waiting for Swank to go back to her corner and tangle more with Eastwood's vision. Haggis- the screenwriter- has written a complete script, swooping in all the drama or even humor- that you might think isn't essential to the storytelling- "forming a circle" gets a whole new definition. With an incredibly intense narration by Freeman, few poetic lines are the least bit of metaphor you are going to get, the real content is hidden beneath those questions that he keeps asking us; a smart move by the writer as it factors a lot on advancing the storytelling.

And mind you, Freeman is not just a narrator, everyone gets one last shot (Eastwood gets Swank's dream and Swank gets her family) in this film and you cannot exclude him from it. Swank, the one that dares to dream, is confidently appealing on her terms, her bizarre fascination of ending a fight within first round, her petty questions and neglecting the orders constantly, is the window which she never lets go of.

Eastwood as her father figure grows more than that you can aspire for. Yes, it was anticipated that their chemistry would be the heart of the film but to extend this friendship on such a scale still melts me down; Mo Cuishle he calls her. The first training that he gives her where he snatches the punching bag and then shuts her down only to regret it later and give her that punching back again; that bit itself says a lot about the film. Call it a trash talk or flirt talk, their conversations are brimmed with humor that makes you weep hard than it makes you tickle, those moments are Million Dollar Baby.… Expand
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10
FilipeNetoJul 25, 2020
I was truly impressed with this film. It is one of the most impressive and intense that I have seen in a while and I believe that it couldn't have had any other destiny than winning the Oscar for Best Motion Picture, in that distant year ofI was truly impressed with this film. It is one of the most impressive and intense that I have seen in a while and I believe that it couldn't have had any other destiny than winning the Oscar for Best Motion Picture, in that distant year of 2005. Its also, for me and until now, the best film by Clint Eastwood, where he not only plays one of the most important and complex roles, but also directs. Remarkable!

The film is basically about a young girl from very modest backgrounds who finds her life's course in boxing. The problem is that she is a woman, and all boxing academies reject her because of that. However, she will be able to capture the attention of two coaches, former retired boxers, who accept the task of training and teaching her, each of whom has a past linked to boxing and very complex personal lives. To knew more, its best to see the film, its worth every minute.

Clint Eastwood is the man here. He had already proven himself to be a great actor and great director, that wasn't new when he released this film, but it is difficult to conceive of something that can be even better than this. Eastwood's skilful hand and attentive and detailed style are everywhere and earned him the Oscar for Best Director that year, with all merit and fairness. The script, based on tales by F.X. Toole, was written by Paul Haggis and is excellent. And here I think Eastwood took a chance, given that Haggis had made a career as a screenwriter more associated with television than cinema. But the risk was well rewarded, and the proof is Haggis' collaboration on several Eastwood films from then on.

The cast is not very large and that is a good thing, as it gave the actors time and space to shine. The star is Clint Eastwood, who plays a tough guy with feelings and an unresolved past. Next to her is Hillary Swank, a young actress full of personality and who had already shone in “The Next Karate Kid”, also in a female action character. She was impressive and reached here one of the pinnacles of her career, winning the Oscar for Best Actress for the second time, which is always impressive for an actor. Another actor who deserves a note in this film, and who managed to collect the Oscar for Best Secondary Actor, is the impeccable and already veteran Morgan Freeman. However, and despite being a great actor, this was the only award that the Hollywood Academy has given him so far.

Technically it is an impeccable film. Cinematography provides us with excellent footage and a masterful use of colour, shadow and contrast to express and amplify feelings and moods. The sets and costumes are excellent. The sound effects and soundtrack, very discreet, fulfil their function with merit but without taking our attention away from the story told. The post-production work was also done with care and attention.

Anyone who says that this film is just a boxing film is totally wrong and made a reductive reading of this film. Its a film based on boxing, but it goes far beyond that, offering us much more: a story of poverty, ambition, greed; a story of dreams that are gradually crushed, punch by punch, by the harshness of life and reality; a story about pain, death and loss, in which highly pertinent and debatable moral questions are raised.… Expand
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10
r96skFeb 8, 2022
Unreal! I didn't expect 'Million Dollar Baby' to be so astonishingly brilliant.

I've said it many a time before but for full context, I do not read up about films before watching them - aside from making sure the film isn't part of aUnreal! I didn't expect 'Million Dollar Baby' to be so astonishingly brilliant.

I've said it many a time before but for full context, I do not read up about films before watching them - aside from making sure the film isn't part of a franchise, checking the run time and seeing the genre - so I was expecting this to be a cliché-filled, but still great, sports flick. It's so much more than that.

It's way more deeper and has an everlasting impact that I hadn't anticipated. Even across the opening chunk I was predicating the obvious cliché ending, but as the film progresses and, especially, as the final portion rolls around it just absorbed my total attention - I was fully engrossed... hook, line, and sinker. Some film!

The cast are simply stunning. Clint Eastwood gives an absolutely fantastic performance, Hilary Swank is truly sensational - especially at the end, damn - and Morgan Freeman is Morgan Freeman; what an actor and what a voice, using him as narrator was a great move. Elsewhere, and though less dramatically, Jay Baruchel, Anthony Mackie, Margo Martindale and Michael Peña also feature interestingly.

It's quite the journey the film takes you on, which I just found utterly enthralling to watch unfold. Perfect pacing, perfect acting. I loved watching every second of it and will undoubtedly be revisiting it.

I noted days ago that I was rather surprised to learn that Eastwood's 'Unforgiven' had been so heavily acclaimed, on this occasion with this 2004 film I am the complete opposite. I don't care much for awards et al., but I am delighted to see all involved receive their props for this. Chapeau!

Marvellous, just marvellous.… Expand
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10
akshatmahajanAug 13, 2021
Million Dollar Baby is not that type of sports drama movie which we see now and then. It's so much different. It is one of it's kind.

Everything in this movie; plot, direction, acting, pace setting, tone built-up was great. The scenesMillion Dollar Baby is not that type of sports drama movie which we see now and then. It's so much different. It is one of it's kind.

Everything in this movie; plot, direction, acting, pace setting, tone built-up was great. The scenes between two main leads are so good, you want more. The pace and tone setting was also good. Everything in the movie looked real, not forceful. There was nothing about this movie which I didn't like. The way this movie is made, by the end of the movie you get touched by the movie.

Overall, a treat for movie fans who love sports drama. You must give it a try, if you haven't.… Expand
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7
AJ_13Mar 21, 2021
A really brave and acid film by Eastwood, daring to explore relevant issues such as euthanasia or female sport. Great acting by Swank.
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8
AgentLviJul 7, 2023
Great movie. The story is decent. The scoring is great, visual is really amazing, the voice & sound is also amazing
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8
hamidgoodarziMay 6, 2023
A film that has won 4 Oscars and more than 150 nominations or other film awards. In this movie, Clint Eastwood once again shows his ability and love for cinema in the best way. Many fans and experts consider this movie to be his best movie.A film that has won 4 Oscars and more than 150 nominations or other film awards. In this movie, Clint Eastwood once again shows his ability and love for cinema in the best way. Many fans and experts consider this movie to be his best movie. The film is excellent in directing, especially the use of light in the film is done in the best way. Therefore, filming is also exemplary. The film won 4 Oscars for Best Film, Best Director, Best Actress and Best Supporting Actor. The film has no expiration date and remains in the historical memory of cinema lovers. A strong drama far from any clichés that prompts the audience to think about the meaning of life. Life is a combination of defeats and victories. It is a mixture of bitterness and sweetness, but it is the result of a person's efforts and fighting to achieve his dreams. Death is not an important thing and all people die in their daily life. In this inner struggle, he goes somewhere in the middle of nowhere in order to win this fight. In the final scenes in the hospital, where Frankie disconnects the air tube from Maggie, the bright shadows of Frankie and Maggie's faces remain and will remain in the mind. In the end, it should be said that Hilary Swank's stunning performance was reminiscent of "Boys Don't Cry" and she should be praised. Morgan Freeman is amazing and deservedly deserved an Oscar for this movie.… Expand
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