This is one of the most audacious films about the subject of sportsmanship. There is a lot to lose and a strong backstory in Beast. Directed by Tyler Atkins, he brings his audience into a boxing match of vengeance where redemption rises in the ring. There are many errors in the search for glory. I walked in with mixed expectations and left asking for more because Beast exceeded my expectations.  

There is a sense of brotherhood and fatherhood that prevails due to various components in the story that are torn and lost. Some things have occurred around the ring and others outside of the ring, involving those who left the glory days of MMA. The story has a purpose—one of resilience. Beast is monumental at almost grade A level.

The main character is Patton James, played by Daniel MacPherson. His father is Sammy, played by Russell Crowe. His brother is Malon, played by Mojean Aria. Between the brothers and their father, the dedication to MMA is strong, but choices have led them to make sacrifices and incur debts. Patton is the one who made “sacrifices” and Malon is the one with the “debts.” Patton finds himself in a position to help his brother redeem himself by getting back in the ring. Over time, there are hurdles that do not make the return easy. This gives the underdog story of Beast brilliance.

In the sport of boxing, there is the drive to never give up. There is also the need to build mental toughness, and Patton is the king of that area in Beast. Given the complicated relationship he has with his father Sammy, he redeems himself by continuously putting his efforts into making strides to fight again. The films backstory has a harsh dynamic. However, it effectively displays the strong sense of purpose required to make a return.

Patton wants to fight to compensate for the problems in Malon’s life. However, he wants to be able to be the best father to his family as well. He wants to be the primary example of excellence to all those in his family. To do so, he must learn to channel his emotions to truly fight and win in the ring.Throughout the movie there is the repeated message that the ring is the place to be the king. The demonstration of sportsmanship flies like a rainbow of sadness surrounding brotherhood.

The depiction of madness in the narrative is inspirational and nearly flawless. The dynamics in the performances of Crowe and MacPherson are well executed. Beast is an underdog story, where falling and getting up again occur repeatedly. Winning brings out the best of the dramatics in Beast.

While this story has traction which is enhanced by a nemesis which makes the storyline even feel more enticing. That nemesis is another fighter, Xavier Grau, played by Bren Foster. He breaks the rules inside the ring and only cares about his title because it can bring him big bucks. Regardless of his choices,his hits have no impact. For Patton, on the other hand, his hits so have an impact. They count since they are meant to save those around him and give them a better life. That is why the fight is the epicenter of Beast. Three out of four stars.