Aziz24

• Rating: 8/10
• Watched on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025 (first watch)
• Format: regular theatre

This film is an emotional, heavy ride through Christy Martin's challenging life. It's a real rollercoaster of sad and hopeful moments, and Sydney Sweeney absolutely shines in the lead role. It's great to finally see her carry a film like this, and she plays the part perfectly. While I wish the movie had given her even more room to push her abilities further, she definitely hits the mark and makes you feel every emotion.

But honestly, the movie wouldn't have been as powerful without Ben Foster. He completely steals the show, carrying the film on his shoulders every time he's on screen. His performance as Christy's ruthless husband gives the story its real emotional weight.

I also loved the editing, especially during the boxing scenes. The cuts between shots were so smooth and made the fights incredibly engaging. The music was also a great touch, helping to set the vibe for each different time period as the story moved forward.

My only real complaint is that the story felt rushed at times. It jumps through the years so quickly that I wish it had slowed down to explore certain moments a bit more.

• Rating: 7/10
• Watched on Friday, Oct. 3, 2025 (first watch)
• Format: regular theatre

I really enjoyed how raw and authentic this movie feels, so much so that at times it feels more like a documentary than a film. The cinematography is framed to capture every moment, especially the fight sequences, in a way that makes you feel as if you're right there in the arena, weaving through the crowd to get a glimpse of the action.

This is easily Dwayne Johnson's best acting performance. Nothing more needs to be said. Emily Blunt and Johnson also share great chemistry, which makes their portrayal of a fighting and complicated couple feel believable. Casting the two of them together was a brilliant choice.

That said, the story itself felt like it was missing something. Even though it's based on a true story, which naturally limits how much can be changed or dramatized, it didn't quite work as a fully fleshed-out narrative. It almost felt like the film was less about telling a story and more about recognizing Mike Kerr and his influence, which is admirable but didn't fully land as a movie. That's why it felt like there was lots of filler sequences that had nothing happening in them that would push the plot somewhere or benefit the plot somehow.

On the other hand, the jazzy, drum-heavy soundtrack was a fantastic choice. It reminded me of Spencer (2021) in the way it mirrored and enhanced the protagonist's emotions, calm yet angry, distracted yet driven, slow yet fast-paced.

• Watched at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) on Sept. 8 2025 (First Watch)
• Format: Regular theatre
• Rating: 7.5/10

Tuner is a cute and engaging story that follows the protagonist's ups and downs, brought to life through sharp editing and striking camera work that give off strong Whiplash vibes.

It's a film that feels simple yet dramatic, never dragging or overstaying its welcome. The real stars here are the editing and sound design, both of which elevate the story and keep you hooked throughout. While on the surface it might look like a typical drama, Daniel Roher's direction ties everything together. Like carefully placed bricks forming a building, his vision makes the film feel cohesive and impactful.

One of the highlights for me was the chemistry between Leo Woodall and Havana Rose Liu. Their connection on screen feels genuine, supported by a script that avoids clichés and instead captures something real and heartfelt. A particular scene that stood out was when Niki (played by Leo Woodall) gives Ruthie (played by Havana Rose Liu) a gift. It's shot and performed in such a natural way that it feels like something that could truly happen in real life, grounding their relationship in authenticity.

Overall, Tuner delivers a heartfelt, well-crafted story with strong technical execution and performances that shine.