Hands of Stone (2016)

Introduction
"Hands of Stone" is a 2016 biographical sports film directed by Jonathan Jakubowicz. It revolves around the life and career of Panamanian boxing legend Roberto Durán, who is commonly considered as one of the best fighters of all time. The film stars Édgar Ramírez as Durán, together with Robert De Niro as his popular trainer Ray Arcel, Usher Raymond as rival fighter Sugar Ray Leonard, and Ana de Armas as Durán's spouse, Felicidad. The title "Hands of Stone" refers to Durán's nickname, which he earned due to his remarkable punching power.

Plot Summary
The movie begins with a brief take a look at the youth of Roberto Durán, growing up in the impoverished streets of El Chorrillo in Panama. It reveals his early life, the impact of the political turmoil involving the United States' control over the Panama Canal, and how these elements shaped his fierce character and battling style. Durán is portrayed as a natural fighter, soaked in a culture of survival from a young age.

The story rapidly moves to Durán's early career as a boxer, his raw talent in the ring, and his meeting with the legendary fitness instructor Ray Arcel. Arcel, who has retired from boxing due to mob impact over the sport, chooses to come back to train Durán pro bono, seeing possible in him to be a first-rate fighter. The bond in between the fiery Durán and the more cerebral Arcel ends up being a main style of the movie, focusing on their relationship both inside and outside the ring.

As Durán's career advances, the film highlights his increase to popularity, showcasing some of his substantial battles that delighted the sporting world. His competition with American fighter Sugar Ray Leonard is provided substantial attention, culminating in the well-known "Brawl in Montreal" where Durán won the WBC welterweight title from Leonard in 1980. This success is depicted as the pinnacle of Durán's career.

The Downfall
However, Durán's fame and success feature challenges. The film touches on his battles with arrogance, anger, and the pressures of life beyond boxing. These styles are represented in the rematch with Leonard, infamously called the "No Más Fight". Throughout this match, Durán suddenly quits in the eighth round, saying the words "No más" (say goodbye to). This minute is depicted as a shocking and complicated event, both for the audience and for Durán himself, and it becomes a turning point in his life and career.

Following the embarrassing defeat, Durán's life spirals out of control. He is rejected by his fans and has problem with his individual life, feeling the weight of having let down not just his fans but likewise his country. The movie explores the ramifications of this defeat on his marriage, self-esteem, and his relationship with Arcel.

Redemption and Legacy
In spite of the setback, "Hands of Stone" is eventually a tale of redemption. It follows Durán's journey back to the sport, his work to rebuild his credibility, and his attempts to find peace and honor in his personal life and professional profession. The movie concludes with Durán regaining his pride and status, notably catching another world title and solidifying his tradition in the boxing world.

As the movie ends, it pays tribute to the profession and tradition of both Durán and Arcel. Durán is shown as an icon not just of boxing but of Latin American pride, symbolizing the struggle against hardship and the fighting spirit. The film closes on a note that highlights Durán's enduring effect on the sport, his fans, and his country.

Conclusion
"Hands of Stone" brings a dramatic analysis of Roberto Durán's life, filled with enthusiasm, conflict, and the pursuit of achievement. The efficiencies, particularly by Ramírez and De Niro, add depth to the story of a guy with a tumultuous life, both revered and criticized, on his journey from the streets of Panama to the heights of boxing history.

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