In a thrilling return to the world of boxing, Michael Pitt steps back into the ring in the first trailer for the upcoming indie film Day of the Fight. This film not only brings Pitt back to the forefront but reunites him with his Boardwalk Empire co-stars Steve Buscemi and Jack Huston. Buscemi co-stars alongside Pitt, while Huston makes his directorial debut, adding another layer of excitement to this much-anticipated project.
The trailer, beautifully shot in striking black-and-white, introduces audiences to the character of Irish Mike Flannigan, portrayed by Pitt. Once a thriving boxer, Flannigan has recently faced the repercussions of his past, having served a prison sentence. The narrative unfolds as he prepares for his first fight since his release, showcasing a day filled with pivotal encounters. Throughout this emotional journey, Flannigan reconnects with key figures in his life, including his uncle played by Buscemi, a childhood friend turned priest (John Magaro), his fierce trainer (Ron Perlman), his estranged ex-wife (Nicolette Robinson), and the poignant presence of his father suffering from dementia (Joe Pesci). This rich character exploration not only deepens the story but pays homage to the earlier documentary Day of the Fight by cinematic legend Stanley Kubrick, which profiled middleweight boxer Walter Cartier in the bustling setting of Newark, New Jersey.
Excitingly, Day of the Fight has garnered positive feedback on the festival circuit, currently boasting an impressive 83% Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes, indicating strong early acclaim. Though a release date has not yet been announced, the buzz surrounding the film suggests that it could capture widespread audience attention when it officially debuts.
Spotlight on Jack Huston
Jack Huston, part of the renowned Huston family, has carved out a unique niche in Hollywood. The Huston dynasty boasts a legacy of cinematic excellence, including iconic figures like Walter Huston and John Huston and contemporary talents Anjelica Huston and Danny Huston. Jack first gained prominence in 2010 as Richard Harrow on HBO’s acclaimed series Boardwalk Empire, where he portrayed a complex character marked by his wartime past.
Since then, Huston has shared the screen with powerful ensembles in films such as Not Fade Away, American Hustle, and The Irishman, where he portrayed Robert F. Kennedy. Recently, he has also captured audiences’ attention as Lasher in AMC’s adaptation of Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches and featured in Fargo and Expats. Looking ahead, Huston is set to appear in the gripping thriller Unit 234.
Day of the Fight* is produced by an impressive lineup, including Huston, Emma Tillinger Koskoff (Joker), Josh Porter (Pretend It’s a City), Jai Stefan (Beasts of No Nation), and actress-producer Colleen Camp (Clue). The film has been acquired for U.S. distribution by Falling Forward Films, signaling their confidence in its success.
As we await further details, stay tuned for updates on Day of the Fight, and immerse yourself in the intriguing trailer below. Whether you’re a fan of boxing dramas or the work of its talented cast, this film promises to deliver a compelling narrative intertwined with themes of redemption and personal struggle.