Just when you thought the whole Rocky genre had been played out, along comes Warrior, a rough and tough
drama about two brothers - ex-Marine Tommy Conlon and former teacher, Brendan Conlon, who return to
their home town of Pittsburgh to compete in a mixed martial arts event called Sparta, where the winner takes all in a
series of violent cage matches. While the influences are many and the story seemingly predictable,
director Gavin O'Connor maintains a unique approach of gritty redemption. From desperate street life to
brutal carnage in the ring, Warrior holds nothing back. A heavy family drama that benefits from a trio
of award worthy performances from Tom Hardy and Joel Edgerton as the two brothers. And Nick Nolte as
their father, a recovering alcoholic battling his own demons. With great intensity, Warrior is a
pleasant surprise, capturing the heart and spirit of a champion.
