As one would expect for a boxing drama about a sole riches-to-rags-to-redemption story, the majority of promotional material coming out of Antoine Fuqua’s Southpaw has focused on Billy “The Great” Hope, as he looks to reverse his fortunes in a bid to fight for his family. But what’s a good character arc without the right foundations? Allow the boxing drama’s latest clip, starring Rachel McAdams and Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson to underline the importance of those we hold near and dear.
For the upcoming Oscar hopeful, McAdams will play the role of Maureen, loving and supportive wife to Jake Gyllenhaal’s grizzled Junior Middleweight Boxing Champion of the World. Though short in length, it’s a nice snippet that offers the limelight to Southpaw’s supporting characters, all the while hinting at some of the underlying tensions between Billy’s closest allies.
Because when tragedy strikes, Gyllenhaal’s protagonist is sent careering back to rock bottom, and must pick himself up in the only environment he knows how: the ring. After all, it was the Italian Stallion who once said that it isn’t about how hard you hit; rather, it’s about how hard you can get hit, and keep moving forward.
Jake Gyllenhaal will enter the ring for the fight of his life when Southpaw debuts in theaters on July 24. For now, check out the official synopsis down below and let us know whether you’re intrigued by Gyllenhaal’s potential awards vehicle in the comments.
From director Antoine Fuqua (TRAINING DAY) and writers Kurt Sutter (SONS OF ANARCHY) and Richard Wenk (THE MECHANIC) comes SOUTHPAW – the story of Billy “The Great” Hope, Junior Middleweight Boxing Champion of the World. When tragedy strikes and he loses it all, Billy enters the battle of his life as he struggles to become a contender once again and win back those he loves. SOUTHPAW stars Academy Award® nominee Jake Gyllenhaal, Academy Award® winner Forest Whit. In theaters July 2015.
