If you loved the raw energy and empowering message of 'Fight Like a Girl' (2013), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and shows that share its themes of resilience, female strength, and overcoming adversity. Whether you're looking for inspiring stories or gripping action, these picks will keep you hooked.

Rocky (1976)
Description: An iconic tale of an underdog boxer who gets a once-in-a-lifetime shot at glory. The film is celebrated for its inspirational message about hard work, determination, and the human spirit's capacity to overcome adversity.
Fact: Sylvester Stallone wrote the script in just three days. The film's budget was only $1 million, but it went on to win three Academy Awards.


Raging Bull (1980)
Description: A brutal and unflinching look at the life of a troubled boxer, exploring his rise and fall in the sport. The film is renowned for its raw portrayal of violence, jealousy, and self-destruction.
Fact: Robert De Niro gained 60 pounds to play the older version of Jake LaMotta. The film was shot in black and white to emphasize its gritty realism.


The Hurricane (1999)
Description: Based on a true story, this film follows a boxer wrongfully imprisoned for murder and his fight for justice. It combines elements of sports drama with a compelling narrative about resilience and the fight for freedom.
Fact: Denzel Washington trained with former middleweight champion Sugar Ray Leonard for the role. The real-life Rubin Carter served as a consultant on the film.


Ali (2001)
Description: A biographical film about one of the greatest boxers of all time, showcasing his triumphs inside the ring and his struggles outside of it. The movie highlights themes of courage, social justice, and the price of fame.
Fact: Will Smith trained for a year to physically transform into Muhammad Ali. The film features real-life footage of Ali's fights blended with reenactments.


Cinderella Man (2005)
Description: A heartwarming yet intense story of a boxer who makes a comeback during the Great Depression to support his family. The film emphasizes themes of hope, perseverance, and the power of the human spirit.
Fact: Russell Crowe trained for over a year to prepare for the role. The film's boxing scenes were choreographed to mimic the style of 1930s boxing.


Million Dollar Baby (2004)
Description: This film explores the underdog story of a determined female boxer who overcomes personal and societal obstacles to achieve greatness in the ring. It delves into themes of perseverance, mentorship, and the emotional struggles of pursuing a dream against all odds.
Fact: The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Hilary Swank trained extensively for the role, gaining 19 pounds of muscle.


The Fighter (2010)
Description: A gritty portrayal of a boxer's journey through personal and professional challenges, highlighting the importance of family, resilience, and redemption. The film captures the raw intensity of the sport and the emotional battles outside the ring.
Fact: Christian Bale lost 30 pounds for his role as Dicky Eklund. The film is based on the true story of boxer Micky Ward.


Warrior (2011)
Description: A powerful drama about two brothers who enter a mixed martial arts tournament, each fighting for their own reasons. The film combines intense action with deep emotional stakes, focusing on family bonds and personal redemption.
Fact: Tom Hardy and Joel Edgerton underwent rigorous training to perform their own fight scenes. The film's climax was shot in one continuous take.


Southpaw (2015)
Description: A gripping story of a boxer's fall from grace and his arduous journey to redemption, both in and out of the ring. The film explores themes of loss, fatherhood, and the relentless pursuit of second chances.
Fact: Jake Gyllenhaal trained for five months to prepare for the role, including learning how to box professionally. The film's soundtrack features Eminem, who was originally considered for the lead role.


Creed (2015)
Description: A modern take on the classic boxing narrative, focusing on legacy, identity, and the struggle to prove oneself. The film blends intense fight sequences with deep emotional storytelling, emphasizing the protagonist's journey to carve his own path.
Fact: Michael B. Jordan performed most of his own stunts. The film was shot in a way to make the boxing scenes feel more immersive and realistic.
