As a fan of sports dramas, I was intrigued by the premise of “Heavyweight” — a ticking clock, ’90 minutes before the boxing match’ thriller set primarily in one location: the locker room. And the cast includes Jason Isaacs, who was outstanding in another ‘single room’ drama, 2021’s “Mass”. Had the chance to screen “Heavyweight”, which was the world premiere, opening night selection of the 2025 Raindance Film Festival in London. This is definitely an effective movie, with a dynamic ensemble. A few minor issues but overall delivers what it promises: an intense and memorable experience.
Derek Douglas (played by Jordan Bolger) arrives to the arena with his team. He’s in the title fight, on just four weeks notice, after the previous two competitors backed out. What unravels is a series of events, some legitimately surprising, leading up to the walkout and first bell. A few situations and emotions Derek is going through are a little too heightened, taking you out of the momentum, but only briefly. I’d say about 85% of “Heavyweight” has an authentic feel, from the preparations a boxer goes through, to who shows up in the locker room and when, and the TV crew’s angst when things don’t go their way.
Writer/director Christopher M. Anthony does a nice job with the details, as well as the camerawork, in the tight quarters of the locker room and hallway. As a whole, “Heavyweight” is quite engaging, though the final 15-20 minutes are slightly stretched out. The climax with two key characters could’ve been tightened to have a stronger impact.
So many big studio releases over the past four or five years have suffered from numerous problems, including trying to complete filming without a finished script. This is why I continue to champion animated features, documentaries and quality smaller / ‘indie’ releases like “Heavyweight”. The majority have compelling arcs, a clear focus, and a firm grasp of the goals they want to accomplish.
LCJ GRADE: B
Running Time: 98 min.