Tapia

About Tapia

'Tapia' is a riveting 2014 documentary about the tumultuous life of world champion boxer Johnny Tapia. This film is a visceral exploration of Tapia's trials and tribulations, inside and outside of the ring. The tormented soul of Tapia is laid bare in this moving portrayal, revealing a man who continually battled personal demons, even at the height of his boxing success.

Making / Production

This film was created by the award-winning production company, 'One Story Up'. They centered the film on a candid interview with Johnny Tapia, just months before his tragic death. Seamlessly blending in-depth interviews with archival footage, the filmmakers bring Tapia's victorious, heartbreaking story to stunningly raw life on the big screen.

Actors

• Eddie Alcazar - Director, who did a commendable job of exploring the depth of Tapia's struggles with personal demons while balancing the portrayal of his professional prowess.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Johnny Tapia himself narrates his life story, making the documentary all the more touching and personal.
• The film offers an insider’s view of the boxing world in the 90s, through the lens of Tapia's career.

Awards

Though 'Tapia' did not win any major awards, the film was met with respect and admiration in the boxing and film communities for its honest and unflinching portrayal of Johnny's Tapia life and career.

Quotes

• "The fight is won or lost far away from witnesses - behind the lines, in the gym, and out there on the road, long before I dance under those lights - Johnny Tapia"

Music, Soundtrack

• The soundtrack effectively captures the intense atmosphere of the boxing world and the poignant moments of Tapia's personal life, contributing significantly to the emotional depth of the film.