Watch Born Into Struggle

Born Into Struggle is a heart-wrenching documentary movie that highlights the story of three young fighters who are struggling to make their dreams come true. The three fighters come from different backgrounds but they all share similar experiences and aspirations. The movie is an excellent portrayal of the socio-economic struggles and racial inequalities that continue to persist in modern-day America.

The first fighter we meet is a young African American girl, Latasha. Latasha lives in Louisiana and is a middle school student. She dreams of becoming a professional boxer but has been repeatedly told by her family and friends that boxing is not a sport for girls. Despite their pessimism, Latasha is determined to pursue her passion and convince everyone that she has what it takes to be a champion.

The second fighter is a young Mexican-American boy, Juan. He lives in Southern California and has been training in mixed martial arts (MMA) since he was eight years old. Juan is incredibly talented and has won several tournaments in his weight class. However, his parents are undocumented immigrants who struggle to make ends meet. They cannot afford to pay for Juan's training, leaving him with limited opportunities to showcase his skills.

The third fighter is a Native American girl, Shay. She lives on the Rosebud Sioux Reservation in South Dakota and is a high school student. Shay has faced numerous hardships throughout her life, including poverty, alcoholism, and drug addiction. Despite her difficult past, Shay has found solace in MMA and dreams of becoming a world champion. However, she faces several challenges, including a lack of training facilities and financial resources.

The movie follows the three fighters as they navigate their personal and professional lives. We see the struggles they face, the sacrifices they make, and the triumphs they achieve. We witness how boxing and MMA offer them a sense of purpose, identity, and belonging in a world that often marginalizes and discriminates against them.

The movie also sheds light on the various societal issues that impact the lives of the fighters. It examines the intersectionality of race, class, and gender and how these factors impact their access to resources and opportunities. It illustrates how systemic oppression and discrimination affect their lives and dreams. It highlights the role of family, community, and support systems in providing these young fighters with the tools and resources they need to succeed.

Throughout the film, we are introduced to various characters who play a significant role in the fighters' lives. We meet Latasha's father, who is a former boxer, and her coach, who encourages her to pursue her passion. We meet Juan's training partner, who supports him both inside and outside the ring. We meet Shay's family members, who provide her with emotional support and encouragement.

All in all, Born Into Struggle is a poignant and inspiring movie that tells the stories of three young fighters who refuse to give up on their dreams. It is a testament to the resilience and determination of the human spirit and a powerful reminder that anyone can accomplish anything with hard work, dedication, and support.

Born Into Struggle is a 2004 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 14 minutes.