a darkly beautiful "Million Dollar Baby" — Page 5

because it was a complete shock. And you keep thinking the film will steer back.

This is why I am amazed when people speak of cliches regarding this film. It's ending is soooo not what's expected.

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Updated On: 2/1/05 at 03:26 PM

I think Margo said it best.

"...with the crappy, up-from-nothing figther, the gruff-but-lovable trainer, and the wise old retainer who doles out wisdom and acts as the moral center of the movie."

That's what's cliched about it.

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They'll always be an audience for sappy melodrama.

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I agree that there are some very obvious cliches in hte movie. Curtainup's quote is, sadly, pretty accurate. But if you look beyond the cliches and see the relationship that develops between Eastwood and Swank, that's when it becomes a great movie. It's not about a fighter, it's not a romantic love story, it's not about a championship battle. It's about the depth of emotion a person can feel, even when they appear to be emotionally spent. It's about the love that can build between two people who are fighting to never love or be loved. It's about love and compassion being worth it, even when it doesn't have the big payoff one expects. It's about making yourself vulnerable and reaping unlikely rewards.

No prob, Curtainup. Never thought you were being sarcastic. In fact, as I said, I agree with what you wrtoe about the cliches. I appreciate your counterpoints as they are all valid and well stated. The movie still moved me. I haven't seen enough movies to know if it's the best of the year or not. And, for all my love of it, Eastwood better not win best actor.

And, in fairness, I am often moved by sappy melodrama. But MDB moved me more than the typical lifetime movie does--even if the basic formula is the same.

Updated On: 2/1/05 at 05:55 PM