Boxer is the latest addition to Netflix’s growing collection of Polish dramas, directed by Mitja Okorn, a name well-known in the world of international filmmaking. The film, now streaming on Netflix, offers a compelling yet drawn-out story of love, loss, and redemption, with boxing as its core theme. With a runtime that stretches beyond two hours, the movie delivers a heartfelt but lengthy viewing experience.
Here’s our review of Boxer, and whether it’s worth your time!
Eryk Kulm Shines as the Star of Boxer
The film kicks off in 1995 in Bytom, Poland, where viewers are introduced to the narrator, Jedrzej, who reflects on his troubled relationship with his father. This father-son dynamic forms the emotional backbone of the film as we are taken back to 1971 to explore Jedrzej’s early years.
The movie revolves around Jedrzej’s aspiration to follow in his father’s footsteps as a boxer. However, his father’s career ended in disappointment, turning him into an angry and violent man. Jedrzej, initially deterred by his father’s harshness, decides to focus on school to escape his father’s shadow. But after his father’s death, Jedrzej channels his unresolved anger into boxing, finding solace in the sport that once connected them.
Boxing as a Metaphor for Struggles and Redemption
Boxing becomes Jedrzej’s emotional outlet, allowing him to relive the one happy connection he had with his father. As he rises through the ranks, Jedrzej’s passion for boxing grows, and so does his ambition to escape Poland and achieve more. The film also touches on his romantic life, but ultimately, Jedrzej’s love for boxing remains his central focus.
While the boxing sequences are gripping and the emotional depth is palpable, the movie at times feels burdened by its lengthy runtime of 2 hours and 25 minutes. The story drags in certain moments, with prolonged scenes that could have been tightened for better pacing. Despite this, the film is a deep and intense drama that fans of the genre will appreciate.
Boxer Review – A Long Journey of Self-Discovery
Despite the pacing issues, Boxer offers a well-constructed narrative that’s driven by Eryk Kulm’s standout performance as Jedrzej. His portrayal of a young man determined to forge his own path while grappling with his father’s shadow adds emotional weight to the movie. The boxing matches are brutal, well-executed, and help build the tension throughout the film.
The movie explores themes of identity, ambition, and the quest for self-fulfillment, making it more than just a sports drama. As Jedrzej battles in the ring, he also battles his inner demons, trying to break free from the legacy of his father.
Conclusion
Boxer is a heartfelt film that beautifully captures the struggles of a young man trying to find his place in the world through boxing. Eryk Kulm’s powerful performance anchors the movie, making it worth watching despite its drawn-out moments. The film’s 2-hour and 25-minute runtime might feel excessive, but fans of deep, character-driven dramas will still find it an engaging watch.
For those who love sports dramas, Boxer offers an emotional rollercoaster filled with grit and heart, even if it takes a little longer to get there.