Falling back on well-worn boxing movie clichés, 'Southpaw' would feel rather tired if it weren't for a trio of really strong performances. Jake Gyllenhaal continues to be one of the most dependable and unconventional leading men in Hollywood, and veteran Forest Whitaker gives real depth to a character that could've been nothing more than a generic sage. But the real revelation here is young Oona Laurence, who more than holds her own against her more experienced co-stars.

There are several key plot points that remain on the margins and unresolved in a satisfying way, and too many things go from A-Z in snap, but 'Southpaw' lands just enough punches to score a split decision.