The Set-Up (1949)

This might be the best boxing movie ever made. It's kind of the opposite of "Rocky," of course (this one is about the small points, and not about becoming champion). But it's also the opposite of the two other classics that come to mind: "Raging Bull" and "Body and Soul."

Director Robert Wise made sure that everything here felt authentic and gritty--almost too authentic and gritty. You marvel at all the types in the crowds, inside and outside the ring. You notice the small rooms, the ordinary props, the lack of glamour. If you aren't afraid of the word mise-en-scene, this has created it perfectly. It's transporting.

And moving. Robert Ryan in the lead pulls out some of his best, subtle reactions. He's sometimes prone to strained expressions that may not always fit his character, but here he is thoughtful and determined and showing signs of being the old wise man in the crowd as the younger boxers act cocky or scared.

Then there's the plot drawn out of the title. It's a good thing this doesn't dominate the movie, at least not until the end, because the real plot has to do with a man coming to grips with the end of his career. And with a woman who loves him truly. It's great stuff.

I love Robert Ryan films. Whether playing a scum bag or a hero, his gritty and realistic performances have always impressed me. One of his better films is this boxing flick. Ryan is an old washed-up boxer who is expected to take a dive. Through much of the film, you really don't know what he will do--throw the fight or try to salvage some of his dignity. And, I gotta say that the boxing scenes are brutal and realistic--it really HURTS to watch the fight. If you like the films THE HARDER THEY FALL or REQUIEM TO A HEAVYWEIGHT, then is this movie for you! In fact, try watching all three to get a look at the less glamorous and seedy side of boxing.

Veteran boxer Bill 'Stoker' Thompson (Robert Ryan) is eager for his next fight. His wife Julie (Audrey Totter) fears the worst and wants him to quit. His manager Tiny bets against him and agrees to take a dive with mobster Little Boy. Tiny is so certain of a lost that he doesn't even tell Stoker of the set-up. The fix is in except no one has told Stoker.

I love the behind-the-scene locker room with the other boxers. One can feel the sweatiness, the desperation, and the hierarchy of respect. This is Rocky before Rocky. The only thing I would change is the last line. Stoker is the better one to make a declarative closing statement. This should end with his "I won". That would be the poetic and ironic move. I don't really like her saying "We both won tonight". It's a little confusing. In a way, it's a minor change and a big deal.