Somebody Up There Likes Me (1956)
Short description
Somebody Up There Likes Me is a classic 1956 film directed by Robert Wise and starring Paul Newman as Rocky Graziano, a young man from the wrong side of the tracks who rises to become the world middleweight boxing champion. The film follows Rocky's life from his childhood in New York City's Lower East Side to his rise to fame and fortune in the boxing ring.
The film is an excellent example of 1950s filmmaking, with its use of black-and-white cinematography and its focus on character development. The story is told through flashbacks, which gives it a unique structure that allows us to see how Rocky's past experiences shape his present life. The performances are all top-notch, with Newman giving an especially memorable performance as Rocky. His charisma and charm make him instantly likable, even when he's getting into trouble or making bad decisions.
The supporting cast is also excellent, with Pier Angeli playing Rocky's love interest, Norma; Everett Sloane as Rocky's manager; Sal Mineo as his best friend; and Eileen Heckart as his mother. Each character brings something unique to the story and helps to create a believable world for Rocky to inhabit.
The film also features some great fight scenes that are both exciting and realistic. The choreography is well done and the camera work captures all of the action perfectly. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of these scenes, which makes them even more enjoyable.
Overall, Somebody Up There Likes Me is an excellent film that stands out among other films from its era due to its strong characters, engaging story, and exciting fight scenes. It's a must-see for any fan of classic cinema or boxing movies in general.