Fightville

If you like MMA, you owe it to yourself to see "Fightville." This documentary takes you to the minor leagues of MMA, to the de facto "farm system" that exists for would-be's, poseurs and wannabe's who dream of making it to the Big Stage of the UFC. Some may make it to those big leagues. Most will not.

"Fightville" depicts unsparingly the blood, sweat and tears of those who undertake the journey. Much of the film depicts the rise of Dustin Poirier, who now is an up and comer in the UFC. (In fact, he is headlining a UFC event on May 15th against "The Korean Zombie" in Fairfax, VA.) Equally compelling, though, are the stories of the fighters whose quest for pugilistic fame and monetary fortune fell short, those who juggle personal life turmoil, injuries, jobs and broken families to chase their dream.

This is a compelling slice of life view of small town MMA in southern Louisiana. In the midst of this unlikely setting, we see the MMA training facility run by Tim Credeur, an MMA fighter, trainer and former contestant on "The Ultimate Fighter" reality show. Whether speaking to the camera about the lifestyle price to be paid, in beating the #$%$ of a fighter who has been skimping on training, Credeur embodies a 21st century manifestation of The Warrior Ethos. It is an ethos he tries to impart to all of his fighters – unflinching, all in and no excuses.

Also fascinating is the side story of the Gill "The Thrill" Guillory, who promotes these small town MMA events. He runs the business on a shoestring, engaging his wife and kids to help him promote the events. He sets up the stage, contracts for the venues at state fairgrounds, rodeo parks and coliseums, promotes the fighters and does everything but wash dishes and sell programs. His passion for the fight game is palpable.

"Fightville" also features a very slick soundtrack, which I really enjoyed. In short, if you are an MMA fan, watching "Fightville" will be a treat, like the biggest slice of your favorite pie for dessert. Each story line is fascinating. The tale is often bitter, occasionally sweet and offers a glimpse into modern day gladiators who continue a centuries-old tradition that propels some men to enter the cage to test their mettle. Two thumbs up for "Fightville'!!

Fightville is such a pleasure to watch. I've been to two screenings and loved it the second time as much as the first.

It's easy to fall in love with the characters. The film captures their full personalities and offers an intimate view of their lives.

The story is tight, and taps into the universal drive to go after one's dreams without being heavy handed or cheesy.

Michael Tucker really got into the fights with his camera and his cinematography works wonderfully.

What surprised me the most is how many funny moments they managed to find in a documentary about MMA fighting. That's probably my favorite part.

The film is so much more than a look at mixed martial arts as a sport. It covers the personal stories of some very interesting individuals. We come to know some up-and-coming mixed martial arts fighters. They are humble, hard-working but serious in the octagon.

The filmmakers are adept in capturing the stories, the fighting, and the surroundings. The cinematography is great and you'll see what I mean from the still photos. Whether you are a fan of the sport or not, I think you'll find something to relate to in the film. We are all striving towards a goal or goals and sometimes we achieve them and others, we have to pick up the pieces and try again.

Yes, cheesy as it sounds, I DID feel the fight in Fightville.

I will not tell you too much because you should see it for yourself, but I loved experiencing the up close access that this documentary shows. I love that the documentary is presented in the words of the families, the promoters and most of all the fighters. You can't help but feel the pain and sweet in this documentary. Pretty intense and very real.

There was a bit of culture shock for me in this documentary too. I can't say I knew what a grind the sport is for those "down in the trenches" looking for a shot. You'll know what I mean when you watch it.

This film takes you inside the lives of people who are literally fighting for survival. They are doing everything they can to just win and fight another day. From the promoter to the fighters themselves this is an look inside the cage that left me in awe and with a deeper understanding of not only the sport but the people inside it.

The film makers did great job getting interviews with the fighters, trainers, and promoters to present a amazingly real and close up document of the facts of their lives. I would also add that this does not glorify the violence of the sport but the commitment that all those involved have toward each other. It is beautifully shot and thoughtfully presented.

I recommend this not just to fight fans but everyone because at the end of the day this is not a fight film. It is a survival film and a story of hope.