Underdog [2019]
Film Review
by JannyC
A young girl meets an MMA coach and they quickly form a bond based on their mutual struggles with their own addictions.
Underdog is a sports drama with hints of familiarity, reminiscent of cinematic hits such as Girlfight and Million Dollar Baby. Still, the film is excellent, with a strikingly deeper substance to it. The project has prestigiously won Best Narrative Feature (Los Angeles Film Awards, 2019), Best Cinematography (Jason Weary) Los Angeles Film Festival, 2019 and was an Official Selection (Dumbo Film Festival, 2019), among others.
These awards are no surprise as once you watch this film, it is evident why it got such a warm response. Every scene, every shot, every edit, every transition in it, are quite flawless, making the flow of the film keep you connected to the story. If there are flaws, the story pulls you in so much that you either not notice or just don’t care. Any small critique points go by the wayside as you just enjoy the journey.
Becca Buckalew (Sam Miller, also associate producer on the project) gives a breakout performance. Though at times it does feel like she is channeling her inner Michelle Rodriguez, Buckalew still does a brilliant job. So brilliant a job she won Best Actress at the Los Angeles Film Festival (2019) for this very performance.
The entire cast here is great to be honest, with a surprise appearance by Brian Krause (Charmed, Return to Blue Lagoon, Sleepwalkers) in a smaller role, along with prime-time Emmy winner Kim Estes as boxing coach Donovan Harold, who befriends Sam. There is even an appearance by MyIndie featured artist, Daniel de Weldon, who does well and remains memorable, in a smaller role.
In picture on the right: Becca Buckalew and Kim Estes
Speaking of the boxing the fight coordinator Whitney Ann Duggins, did a magnificent job in choreographing the fight scenes, in my opnion. It was nothing extravagant or over the top. They were shot modestly and with a realistic feel. The choreography incorporated MMA training, Brazilian Jiu-jitsu and boxing skills into the repertoire. Add in an exceptional soundtrack, thanks to music composer/Score mixer, Ryan Richko, and you just might feel inspired to take an MMA class after viewing.
While drama films are sporadic on my watch list (let alone sports dramas), I know a good one when they cross my path. Underdog is one such film and I was somewhat surprised at how much I enjoyed it.
Recommended. 8/10.
