Midweek Mention... Hands of Stone

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Welcome back to Bad Dads Film Review! This week, we’re stepping into the ring with Hands of Stone (2016), the boxing biopic that tells the story of legendary Panamanian fighter Roberto Durán.

Directed by Jonathan Jakubowicz, Hands of Stone chronicles the life and career of Roberto Durán, one of boxing’s most iconic and ferocious competitors. The film stars Édgar Ramírez as Durán, delivering a fiery performance that captures both his aggressive fighting style and his turbulent personal life. Robert De Niro plays legendary trainer Ray Arcel, bringing a more restrained, mentor-like energy to balance the film’s intensity.

The movie charts Durán’s rise from a poverty-stricken childhood in Panama to becoming a world champion, with his infamous 1980 "No Más" fight against Sugar Ray Leonard (played by Usher Raymond) serving as the emotional and narrative centerpiece. Alongside the boxing drama, Hands of Stone explores themes of national pride, personal redemption, and the costs of fame.

Robert De Niro, no stranger to boxing films after Raging Bull, plays Arcel with quiet wisdom. His scenes with Ramírez are a highlight, exploring the mentor-protégé dynamic with subtlety.

While Hands of Stone doesn’t reinvent the boxing biopic, it hits many satisfying beats. It’s a film about second chances, pride, and perseverance — all wrapped in some bruising fight scenes. Édgar Ramírez gives a passionate, physical performance, and De Niro's presence lends the film extra gravitas.

Some of the storytelling can feel a bit formulaic, and it occasionally leans too heavily on sports movie clichés, but for fans of boxing dramas, it delivers plenty of punches — both literal and emotional.

Join us in the episode as we discuss Durán’s legacy, the art of the boxing biopic, and whether this one truly goes the distance. 🎬🥊👨‍👧‍👦🍿

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