Details

Release year: 2022

Storyline

At the turn of the 19th century, Pugilism was the sport of kings and a gifted young boxer fought his way to becoming champion of England.

Top credits

Directors

Daniel Graham

Writers

Matt Hookings

Cast

Matt Hookings — Jem Belcher
Ray Winstone — Bill Warr
Russell Crowe — Jack Slack
Marton Csokas — Lord Rushworth

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Did you know

• When Belcher triumphed over Bartholomew in a 17-round rematch in 1800, he was hailed as the new champion. In 1803, Belcher lost sight in one eye when he was struck by the ball in a game of racquets. ... Perhaps Belcher should have retired to his pub, The Jolly Brewer, after the Pearce defeat. James 'Jem' Belcher was one of the most admired prizefighters of the Regency. He was renowned for his handsome looks, impeccable manners and eccentric boxing style which involved telling jokes to his opponents at the bloodiest moments of combat. He was defeated by the rising talent, Tom Cribb in 1807 and again in 1809, leading to his retirement soon after. His many victories inspired Egan's famous history of bare-knuckle fighting, Boxiana (1812). William Hazlitt, an ardent fan, fondly recalled him in his famous essay The Fight (1821).

• Matt Hookings wrote this movie as well as playing the main character Jem Belcher. This mirrors Sylvester Stallone writing the movie Rocky (1976) and playing the main character of Rocky Balboa.

• Principal photography began on June 27, 2021 in Wales and finished in Malta on November 9, 2021. On July 28, 2021, it was announced that after the film was being shot in south Wales had to move production abroad to Lithuania due to a lack of financial support by Creative Wales, even though lead actor and writer Matt Hookings is Welsh. The film was delayed due to significant financial issues, including infighting amongst producers.

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