Raging Bull

Normally, I really dislike sport films. The plots are always predictable, as writers are usually more concerned with pleasing the crowds with an inspirational win than with creating realistically complex characters. Truthfully, I thought Martin Scorsese's Raging Bull was going to fit into the traditional sport-film mold. However, this boxing movie was much more unconventional, and I greatly enjoyed the film.

The opening shot of Jake LaMotta warming up in slow motion, with his boxing robe billowing and camera bulbs flashing in the background, drew me in immediately to the film. It had artistic merit, in the framing and beauty of the shot, but it also let the audience spend time thinking about who this man was. Jake is the only object to focus on, helping the audience connect with him. I also really liked the intricate and stylistic editing of the fight scenes. In other boxing movies, the fights are usually the most monotonous parts, and I can't wait for them to finish (How many times do I have to watch two guys punch each other?!). In Raging Bull, however, I was always anticipating the fight scenes. There was something really artistic and captivating about the varied editing techniques and photography-inspired shots. Those segments restored my interest in the film, which waned slightly after spending too much time listening to Jake LaMotta speak.

My favorite part about the film, however, is the fact that there is no Hollywood style ending, with the champion finishing as a hero. I always respect films that stay true to life and don't try to sell a movie off of its inspirational, and often unrealistic, grand finale. It was a gritty, realistic depiction of Jake LaMotta's life, without trying to force a message on the audience about overcoming obstacles. Raging Bull wasn't inspirational or emotionally moving to me, I enjoyed the realism and visual aesthetics of the film.