Somebody Up There Likes Me

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Abraham W Mar 2, 2019 Boxer Rocky Graziano's biopic, based on his autobiography, from childhood to his World Middleweight Championship title win at age 28 in 1947. Paul Newman's talent is large and flexible, revealing an approach to the Graziano character that scores tremendously. Robert Wise's sports biopic of Rocky Graziano deservedly catapulted Paul Newman to major stardom; you can spot in small parts Steve McQueen, before he became a star, and Sal Mineo. Pier Angeli plays Norma Graziano and she add so much to the film who always looks out for Graziano the man, as opposed to Graziano the boxer. Angeli plays the part well . Great film . See more

Ron S Mar 24, 2018 This was Paul Newman's second film, and because his first was so poor, it was the one that launched his career. He got the role of Rocky Graziano after James Dean, who was originally cast, tragically died. Graziano is shown for a good portion of the film as an out of control young man, stealing things, running rackets, and defying authority - even that of the US Army. Newman plays the part reasonably well, and though he was a little over-the-top at times, his presence and charisma more than make up for it. While the story is somewhat predictable, since we know Graziano will someday be a world champion boxer, it's well told by director Robert Wise, and not shy about showing us his shortcomings (with the real Graziano's full approval). His relationship with his father (Harold J. Stone), who had his own boxing dreams frustrated, is very touching. The real hero of the story is his wife (Pier Angeli), who always looks out for Graziano the man, as opposed to Graziano the boxer. Angeli plays the part well, playing her supportive scenes without being cloying, getting tough when she needs to be, and having a couple of very cute scenes with their daughter (Angela Cartwright) besides. "Baby, your father is the champ," exclaims mom. "I have to go to the bathroom," the little one replies. It's in human moments like these that make the film, and the action in the final boxing match is pretty good as well. See more

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Somebody Up There Likes Me

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