Much like John Travolta’s Trading Paint before it, this father/son rivalry flick is loaded with interpersonal conflict. But whereas Trading Paint largely failed to deliver on its intended dramatic tension, 2020’s Embattled is one of those rare sports movies that brings together high action and dynamic emotion in a convincingly dark portrait of humanity that’s both creative and compelling. Centered around the story of legendary mixed martial arts fighter Cash Boykins (Stephen Dorff) and his eldest son Jett (Darren Mann)- who have been locked in an ongoing familial battle since Cash abandoned Jett’s mother and brother born with Williams syndrome when he was a child- the film tracks Jett’s ascent in professional MMA fighting in what turns out to be a collision course with his dad in the ring after studying under his often abusive and violent tutelage. With its Rocky-like ending that sees the two square off in an epic battle that ends with the son’s heartbreaking defeat, and near death, the movie’s only redemption comes from the fact that the son’s loss actually ends up being a win for decency, as Cash is abandoned by his second wife and son in the process, leaving him alone with only money, shame and anger as his consolation prizes in life. Shot entirely in Birmingham, and featuring places like Ramsay High School, Elyton Hotel, Collins Bar and Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport— as well as private residences around the metro area— the film serves as a great calling card for not only the Magic City and its wonderfully diverse locations, but also its ability to meaningfully contribute to a really unique piece of cinema and attract great productions. One of the best films ever shot here in terms of production value, it’s well worth viewing, whether you are a fan of sports films or not.
FUN FACT: The movie’s main character Cash Boykins was modeled after notoriously violent and flamboyant MMA fighter Conor McGregor.
Trailer Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zkHP4RXHzBg