Warrior movie review (2011)

Warrior (2011)

Brief review: Much like last year's "The Fighter", Gavin O'Connor's "Warrior" spends more time focusing on the dramatic elements rather than the action, and this is where the movie really succeeds. Although the story feels rush at times, it's the fantastically-written script that makes the movie as compelling, honest and emotional as it is. The connection between the characters is intricate, yet believable, and each and every one of them is wonderfully-portrayed. Joel Edgerton gives his best performance to date as the calm, yet determined teacher-turned-fighter Brendan, Tom "Handsome" Hardy delivers an amazingly convincing performance as the troubled and aggressive Tommy Conlon, also dedicated to fighting, and the iconic Nick Nolte turns in an exceptional supporting performance as the ex-drunk father and trainer, Paddy. Gavin O'Connor's excellent hand-held camera technique and gritty cinematography add visual authenticity to the film, and make it seems as realistic as possible. The MMA bouts in the second half of the movie are nothing short of thrilling, and the fight scenes themselves, while harsh and brutal, are extremely skilfully-shot and and professionally-executed, and the training sequences are just as entertaining to watch.

Overall summary: Sure, it's formulaic and rather far-fetched, but "Warrior"'s solid direction, powerful performances and strong storytelling make up for the lack of originality, plus, the film has as much heart as violence, and packs a big emotional and dramatic punch at the end.