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Age really is just a number—just ask Brad Pitt, who’s now officially old enough to join the AARP. Or George Foreman, who regained his heavyweight title at 45. Or Sylvester Stallone and Robert De Niro, who play a couple of old boxers who climb back into the ring for one last fight in Grudge Match.
Grudge Match tells the story of a legendary boxing rivalry that comes bubbling back to the surface. Back in the ‘80s, Pittsburgh boxers Henry “Razor” Sharp (Stallone) and Billy “The Kid” McDonnen (De Niro) were at the top of their sport. Their two most publicized fights were against each other—and each walked away with one win. But before they could fight their tie-breaking grudge match, Razor suddenly retired.
Now, decades later, a chance meeting leads to a rekindled rivalry—and a big-money opportunity to fight their long-overdue grudge match. But before they can lace up the gloves, they’ll have to get back in shape—and face some old personal issues in the process.
Films like this one are at their best when they keep things light. The jokes are pretty one-note—all revolving around the fact that Razor and Kid are out of touch and out of shape—but it’s rarely overdone. And while the acting here may not be the best (nor is the writing, for that matter), it’s simply entertaining to watch these two aging tough guys having a little bit of fun. De Niro is clearly more comfortable doing comedy—since he’s had plenty of comedic experience in recent years—and he’s happy to ham it up on camera. Stallone isn’t quite as comfortable, but his awkwardness generally comes off as more charming than unnerving. The film’s best performance, however, comes from Alan Arkin, who plays Razor’s outspoken old trainer, who holds nothing back when it comes to getting his old friend back in shape.
Unfortunately, though, Grudge Match just can’t resist the urge to make a serious point or two—and instead of being satisfied to tell a silly story about a couple of old boxers climbing back in the ring, for some reason, it feels the need to throw in some heartwarming romance and family drama. Razor reconnects with the love of his life (Kim Basinger)—the one who cheated on him with his greatest rival 30 years ago—while Kid struggles to build a mature relationship with the son who grew up without him. Not only do these serious moments feel unnecessary and unnatural, but they bring the action and comedy to a screeching halt. And Basinger is so awkward and whiny that she puts a damper on any scene in which she makes an appearance.
Grudge Match has some enjoyable moments—especially where Arkin is involved. But the forced drama and awkward acting keep it from must-see status. If you’re looking for an entertaining old-guy comedy to enjoy with your dad, check out De Niro in Last Vegas instead.
Listen to the review on Reel Discovery:
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