Southpaw

About Southpaw

Southpaw is a 2015 American sports drama film directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by Kurt Sutter. The film follows a talented professional boxer named Billy Hope, played by Jake Gyllenhaal, who, after the tragic death of his wife (Rachel McAdams), loses custody of his daughter, confronts alcoholism and has to get his life back on track with the help of a trainer who helps him find redemption and make a comeback.

Making / Production

The film was produced by Fuqua films along with Escape Artists and was distributed by The Weinstein Company. The initial script was written by Sons of Anarchy's creator Kurt Sutter. The production was associate with the authentic atmosphere of boxing life, with training sequences shot in real boxing gyms and fight scenes employing a rigorous, realistic style.

Actors

• Jake Gyllenhaal as Billy Hope: He provides a depthful performance as a successful yet troubled boxer struggling with life's many hurdles.
• Rachel McAdams as Maureen Hope: She plays Billy's wife who is tragically killed, setting up the transformation of Billy's life.
• Forest Whitaker as Titus Wills: He portrays an empathetic trainer who helps Billy find redemption and a path back to success.
• Oona Laurence as Leila Hope: She performs as Billy's daughter, showcasing a mature and heart-wrenching performance for a child actor.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Jake Gyllenhaal spent a solid five months training every day for this role to prepare physically.
• Originally, Eminem was set to star in the film but had to drop out due to scheduling conflicts. However, he still contributed to the soundtrack.
• The title "Southpaw" refers to a left-handed boxer – which Jake Gyllenhaal's character indeed is.

Awards

Southpaw earned Rachel McAdams a nomination for Best Supporting Actress at the 21st Satellite Awards.

Quotes

• "I'm going to fight again. I'm going to get my kid back." – Billy Hope
• "The more you get hit, the harder you fight, right?" – Billy Hope
• "Billy Hope can't fight. He's dead inside" – Tick Wills

Music, Soundtrack

• "Phenomenal" by Eminem
• "Kings Never Die" by Eminem featuring Gwen Stefani
• "Beast" by Rob Bailey and The Hustle Standard
• "Wicked Games" by The Weeknd