Watch Max Schmeling
- NR
- 2011
- 1 hr 57 min
-
4.8 (1,208)
Max Schmeling is a 2010 German biographical drama film which showcases the life and career of one of the most iconic boxers of all time, Max Schmeling. The movie follows Schmeling's journey from being a farm boy to a world-renowned boxer who fought during the Nazi era. Henry Maske plays the role of Max Schmeling, a young German boy who grew up in poverty and found boxing as a way out of his misery. Schmeling trained hard to become a professional boxer, and his hard work eventually paid off when he became the world heavyweight champion in 1930. However, his achievements in the ring were overshadowed by the political turmoil of his time.
Heino Ferch plays Joe Jacobs, Schmeling's manager and close friend, who helped him become a world-class boxer. Ferch blends into the role of Jacobs, portraying him as a charismatic, streetwise manager who had a heart of gold. The on-screen chemistry between Maske and Ferch is amazing, and both actors do a fantastic job of bringing out the relationship between boxer and manager.
Susanne Wuest plays Anny Ondra, the Czech-born actress and Schmeling's love interest. Wuest impresses in her role by portraying Ondra's struggles with fame, her relationship with Schmeling, and her eventual downfall due to a controversy surrounding a film in which she starred.
The movie portrays Schmeling's struggles and successes in the midst of the Nazi regime. Schmeling was viewed as a national hero by the German people, but his refusal to join the Nazi party led to his eventual downfall. The movie portrays his dual identity as a successful boxer and a man who refused to join the Nazis, and sheds light on the price he paid for his beliefs.
What stands out about this movie is the focus on Schmeling's personal struggles, as opposed to his boxing career. The script is well-written, and the director does a fantastic job of balancing the personal and political aspects of Schmeling's life. The movie does not shy away from addressing Schmeling's involvement with the Nazi party, but it also sheds light on his attempts to help other people during World War II.
The cinematography of Max Schmeling is impressive, with the movie capturing the grandeur of the boxing ring, the desolation of East Germany during the war, and the grandeur of New York city during Schmeling's peak. The music and editing also compliment each other, and the scenes flow seamlessly from one to another.
Overall, Max Schmeling is a movie that manages to capture the essence of one of the greatest boxers in history. It portrays his personal struggles, the complexities of life during the Nazi era, and does so with excellent acting, direction, and cinematography. The movie is gripping from beginning to end, and will keep you engaged regardless of whether you are a fan of boxing or not. Max Schmeling is an inspiring story of a man who stood by his beliefs, and refused to compromise them, no matter the cost.