Christy tells the gripping true story of Christy Martin, the trailblazing female boxer who rose to fame in the male-dominated world of the 1990s, only to face unimaginable personal horrors. It’s a remarkable narrative, one that highlights her resilience and the shocking abuse she endured, and I was stunned by how recent some of these events were—the attempted murder by her husband happened in 2010, which makes the whole thing hit uncomfortably close to home in our modern era of awareness around domestic violence.
That said, while the film captures the grit of the ring and the raw intensity of Martin’s life, it ultimately lacks the deep emotional impact needed to elevate it beyond a standard biopic. The script feels formulaic at times, veering between underdog sports drama and a heavier exploration of trauma, but it never fully merges into something that tugs at the heartstrings or leaves a lasting impression. Director David Michôd brings some visual flair to the boxing sequences, with sweat-drenched fights that echo the physical toll, yet the tonal shifts can feel jarring, almost like a Lifetime movie in parts.
Sydney Sweeney throws herself into the role with undeniable effort, transforming physically and adopting a tough West Virginia twang that shows her commitment. She handles the action scenes convincingly and conveys Martin’s determination well. However, I’m not entirely convinced she was the ideal choice to anchor this story. Despite her all-in approach, the performance doesn’t quite solidify as a knockout—it skirts the surface of the character’s inner turmoil without fully plumbing the depths required for such a complex figure. Ben Foster, as her manipulative husband Jim, delivers a chilling portrayal that adds menace, and the supporting cast shines in moments, but overall, the film feels like it could have packed more punch.
Still, the last few scenes did get me though—the harrowing climax and the raw, visceral moments of survival and recovery pack a real emotional wallop, with intense tension and heartbreaking vulnerability that finally deliver the kind of gut-wrenching impact the rest of the film struggles to sustain. Probably needed more of those pivotal, deeply felt scenes scattered throughout to truly elevate the whole thing and give the story the consistent emotional weight it deserves.
For fans of inspirational true stories or Sweeney’s growing filmography, Christy is worth a watch. It’s compelling enough to hold your attention, even if it doesn’t deliver the emotional haymaker it promises.
Screening at Luna Leederville Now.
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