Black Bear has officially released the highly anticipated trailer for “Christy,” a new sports biopic that features Sydney Sweeney in the role of the legendary International Boxing Hall of Fame icon, Christy Martin. This film not only highlights the remarkable journey of Martin but also showcases the intense training and dedication required to become a world-class boxer.
The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Katy O’Brian, Merritt Wever, Ben Foster, Ethan Embry, Chad L. Coleman, Valyn Hall, and Tony Cavalero. Directed by David Michôd, who also co-wrote the screenplay alongside Mirrah Foulkes, “Christy” is based on a compelling story by Katherine Fugate. This collaboration promises to deliver a captivating narrative that will resonate with both sports enthusiasts and drama lovers.
During the Toronto International Film Festival, where “Christy” made its world premiere, Sweeney shared insights into her physical transformation for the role. She revealed that she gained 30 pounds to accurately portray the fierce fighter. “I had a nutritionist work with me as well as a weight trainer and a boxing trainer,” Sweeney explained. “We upped my calorie intake and I started taking a lot of protein shakes and supplements and eating everything.” She added, “I ate a lot of Smuckers, a lot of PB and J sandwiches, milkshakes, kind of just constantly always eating because we were so active.”
This commitment to her role highlights Sweeney's dedication and the lengths she went to authentically embody the character of Christy Martin. “Keeping it all up was quite a challenge,” she admitted, emphasizing the rigorous demands of her training schedule.
Film critic Owen Gleiberman from Variety lauded the film, noting Sweeney's performance as a “true-note, game-changing knockout.” Gleiberman remarked on the excitement of watching Sweeney in the ring, demonstrating her character's determination and skill. “It’s fun to see her in the ring, hunched and concentrated, pummeling away, then felling an opponent with a merciless left hook,” he stated. He went on to praise her infectious joy in victory, saying, “She grins in triumph and pumps her fists in the air like a kid at her own birthday party; the pleasure she takes in winning is part of what makes her a star.”
The film is backed by a talented production team, including executive producers Mirrah Foulkes, John Friedberg, Andrew Golov, Michael Heimler, Harrison Huffman, David Levine, Clementine Quittner, Ryan Schwartz, Nick Shumaker, and Brad Zimmerman. Additionally, Kerry Kohansky-Roberts, Justin Lothrop, Teddy Schwarzman, Brent Stiefel, Sydney Sweeney, and David Michôd serve as producers, ensuring a well-rounded and high-quality film.
“Christy” is set to hit theaters on November 7, 2023. Fans of boxing and inspiring biopics alike will not want to miss this exciting portrayal of a sports legend. Be sure to check out the trailer below to catch a glimpse of the thrilling action and heartfelt moments that await!
