Having a limited knowledge of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), I went into the viewing of Warrior with low expectations, secretly hoping that the action/drama veered closer to the drama end – for me, it did! I loved it and felt better for having experienced this inspiring story about discipline and forgiveness. This is the kind of movie where at least a couple of times you will consider joining a gym, just as the movie Flashdance may have made you want to become a dancer.
Warrior is a highly inspirational film about a recovering alcoholic father (Nick Nolte) and two alienated brothers, Tommy Riordan (Tom Hardy) a bitter ex-marine, and Brendan Conlon (Joel Edgerton) a high school physics teacher with a young family facing serious financial burdens. The estranged family comes together in a most improbable way – the MMA ring. Tommy begrudgingly asks his father and former wrestling coach to train him for the biggest tournament of his life the “Sparta” with a $5 million purse. The Sparta is held in Atlantic City with sixteen contestants one being the favorite Koba (Kurt Angle) a Russian fighter making his American debut.
Hardy’s performance as the younger brother Tommy is perfection in his ability to portray indignant, resigned embitterment, with just the right amount of tender, childlike hurt. Certainly it cannot go without mention the actor’s dedication to creating a very believable fighter’s body. His muscular physique will only amplify the viewers’ ability to jump into the excitement and discipline the MMA fighter goes through. The artwork of his explanative tattoos adds to the depth and dimension of his character. I personally have never seen bitter done better. You may remember Hardy from his performance in Star Trek: Nemesis or Inception. He’ll certainly have more of a recognizable name after his role as the villain, Bane, in the new Batman film from Christopher Nolan, The Dark Knight Rises.
Nolte’s role as Paddy Conlon the alienated father, although good, did not come off as great. As he was the trainer to his youngest son Tommy, I didn’t see much coaching going on. Remember in Rocky? The incredible training Rocky went through with Mickie and Paulie, the sides of beef? That didn’t happen between the father and son in this one, and I missed it. Nolte does however excel in a heart wrenching scene in an Atlantic City hotel room.
Nick Nolte (right) and Tom Hardy in “Warrior.” Photo by Opulence Studios – © 2011 – Lionsgate.
Edgerton played Brendan, the eldest brother, husband, father of two girls one with a recent heart transplant, and a hard working beautiful wife Tess Conlon (Jennifer Morrison). He was perfect for his character. Brendan also a fighter, but not one with a past of great success, feels obligated to put his life in danger to protect his family and his home. Not the typical fighter’s body or build, but that was the point. At times a bit too unrealistic as far as the vast difference between his opponents’ physiques and his much smaller, less toned stature. Jennifer Morrison’s quick quips as Brendan’s wife were amusing and with industrious timing. Beautiful woman in great shape, easily someone you liked from beginning to end.
Writer and director Gavin O’Connor moves us again with Warrior, just as he did with Miracle and Pride and Glory. MMA fans as well as those with a sensitive side will enjoy this movie that blends the action and drama genres effortlessly.
Betsy Cizek
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