Estimated read time: 1-2 minutes
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Doug Wright reporting
Josh Hartnett stars as struggling sports writer, Erik Kernan, in the new film, "Resurrecting the Champ."
Erik's life is on the ropes, his marriage to a gifted, fellow journalist-played by Kathryn Morris-is dissolving and his editor-played by Alan Alda-supports him, but has made it clear that he thinks Erik has talent, but his work is mediocre.
Determined to make his mark, he bypasses his editor and pitches an idea to the magazine section of his paper. A recent encounter with a homeless man, claiming to be boxing champ, Bob Satterfield inspires Erik to write his story.
Samuel L. Jackson is brilliant as Champ, a character who provides a story so compelling and believable that our ambitious young writer fails to properly vet the facts. When the article hits the street, the reviews are off the charts, the paper loves it, his estranged wife loves it, offers roll in for not only writing opportunities, but broadcast as well.
But, calls start coming in from crusty old voices in the boxing world claiming Satterfield is dead has been for 20 years.
What unfolds is a fascinating study of a decent guy wrestling with ambition, ethics and his love of family… especially his desire to be a hero to his little boy. Hartnett really goes the distance and Samuel L. Jackson put me on the mat with a portrayal so beautifully complex, his character appears simple.
With a supporting cast that is off the charts, "Resurrecting the Champ" is a real contender.
I really like this film, 3 ½ stars for "Resurrecting the Champ," and it's rated PG-13.
