Southpaw is a decent movie with a reasonably well developed plot, albeit a top notch cast. The performances are Oscar worthy, Jake Gyllenhaal is completely engrossed in to this character from start to finish, he clearly underwent extensive training and deserves all the praise for his dedication. There is also a very touching relationship between Gyllenhaal and his daughter, a heartwarming a feature, and his scenes with Forest Whitaker are without a doubt the films highlight.

However, the reason no award praise was given is a result of how lackluster the story is. It's all very standard, there's no big moments that take your breath away or captivate because you have seen everything that is done here in other movies more effectively. It also tries too hard to be emotional, there is constant sad music playing throughout, it all feels very forced and thrown at the audience, there's no subtlety.

The performances are really too good for this film, although they do showcase how good acting can make a predictable, clichéd film more interesting. Albeit very flawed, I think Southpaw is worth the watch for the acting alone, particularly if you are a fan of Gyllenhaal, just do not go out of your way to see it.

After losing his wife and daughter, a boxer hires a trainer to get his life back on track.

Best Performance: Jake Gyllenhaal / Worst Performamce: 50 Cent