Ernie (Jeff Bridges) is a loser fighter who can't last more than the time it takes to hang up his robe. Tully (Stacy Keach) is an old drunk and a fighter past his usefulness. Tully laments the old times and is trying to get back into the fight game. He shacks up with another drunk Oma (Susan Tyrrell).
Director John Huston brings us a portrait of the ugly side of boxing. These are the nobodys. Susan Tyrrell's performance is truly shocking. Her character is worth the watch for this movie. Although the story follows both Ernie and Tully, it's probably a better idea to concentrate more on Tully. Ernie's story can be told as a side issue to Tully. Stacy Keach has the more compelling character. His struggle is more poignant. He should have been the only protagonist.
Director John Huston brings us a portrait of the ugly side of boxing. These are the nobodys. Susan Tyrrell's performance is truly shocking. Her character is worth the watch for this movie. Although the story follows both Ernie and Tully, it's probably a better idea to concentrate more on Tully. Ernie's story can be told as a side issue to Tully. Stacy Keach has the more compelling character. His struggle is more poignant. He should have been the only protagonist.