If you enjoyed the raw intensity and gritty storytelling of 'Stallone: Frank, That Is' (2021), this article is for you. We’ve curated a list of 10 movies and shows that capture the same unflinching realism, complex characters, and gripping narratives. Whether you're a fan of biographical dramas or hard-hitting documentaries, these picks will keep you hooked.

Rocky (1976)
Description: A gritty underdog story set in the world of boxing, focusing on perseverance, personal struggle, and redemption.
Fact: The film was shot in just 28 days on a budget of $1 million and went on to win three Academy Awards, including Best Picture.


Raging Bull (1980)
Description: A raw and intense portrayal of a boxer's rise and fall, exploring themes of self-destruction and personal demons.
Fact: The film is shot in black and white to emphasize its stark, documentary-like realism and to differentiate it from other boxing films of the era.


Ali (2001)
Description: A biographical drama about the legendary boxer, focusing on his career, personal struggles, and cultural impact.
Fact: Will Smith trained for a year to mimic Muhammad Ali's boxing style and mannerisms, gaining 35 pounds of muscle for the role.


Cinderella Man (2005)
Description: A Depression-era boxing drama about a fighter's comeback, emphasizing resilience, family, and the human spirit.
Fact: The film's boxing scenes were choreographed to replicate actual fights from the 1930s, using historical footage for reference.


Million Dollar Baby (2004)
Description: A poignant tale of an underdog boxer and her mentor, delving into themes of sacrifice, determination, and the cost of dreams.
Fact: Clint Eastwood insisted on using real boxers for many of the fight scenes to enhance the film's authenticity.


The Fighter (2010)
Description: A biographical drama about a boxer's journey through personal and professional hardships, highlighting family dynamics and resilience.
Fact: Christian Bale lost 30 pounds and learned to box left-handed to accurately portray his character, Dicky Eklund.


The Wrestler (2008)
Description: A raw and emotional look at a washed-up wrestler's attempt at redemption, paralleling the physical and emotional toll of his profession.
Fact: Mickey Rourke performed many of his own stunts, including the wrestling sequences, to bring authenticity to his role.


Warrior (2011)
Description: A gripping story of two brothers in the world of mixed martial arts, exploring family conflict, forgiveness, and personal redemption.
Fact: Tom Hardy and Joel Edgerton underwent intense MMA training for months to prepare for their physically demanding roles.


Southpaw (2015)
Description: A story of a boxer's fall from grace and his fight to reclaim his life and career, focusing on redemption and personal loss.
Fact: Jake Gyllenhaal underwent a rigorous six-month training regimen to transform his physique for the role, gaining 15 pounds of muscle.


Creed (2015)
Description: A modern take on the boxing drama, blending legacy, mentorship, and the struggle to carve out one's own identity.
Fact: The film's boxing scenes were shot using long takes to create a more immersive and realistic experience for the audience.
