“The Fire Inside” (2024) is a compelling biographical drama that chronicles the remarkable journey of Claressa “T-Rex” Shields, portrayed by Ryan Destiny. The film delves into Shields’s ascent from a challenging upbringing in Flint, Michigan, to becoming the first American woman to secure an Olympic gold medal in boxing at the 2012 London Games. Directed by Rachel Morrison, with a screenplay by Barry Jenkins, the film has garnered significant attention from critics and audiences alike.
On Rotten Tomatoes, “The Fire Inside” boasts an impressive 93% approval rating from critics, based on 103 reviews, and a 95% audience score from over 500 verified ratings. The consensus highlights the film as “equal measures inspiring and enraging,” noting its emotional depth and vigour.
Nell Minow of RogerEbert.com praises the film’s portrayal of the bond between Shields and her coach, Jason Crutchfield (played by Brian Tyree Henry). She commends the “warmth and trust” depicted on screen, contrasting it with the intensity of the boxing scenes and the hardships of Shields’s personal life. Minow also highlights Morrison’s adeptness at conveying the specifics of the community and the challenges outside the ring, including the limited opportunities for female athletes.
Benjamin Lee of The Guardian describes the film as a “blazing boxing drama” that serves as a “gutsy crowd-pleaser.” He lauds the performances, particularly Henry’s portrayal of Crutchfield, and appreciates the film’s exploration of the systemic challenges faced by female athletes. Lee notes that the film “inspires and then enrages,” providing a nuanced look at the obstacles Shields overcame both in and out of the ring.
The New York Times
In their review, The New York Times commends the film for transcending the typical sports movie formula. They highlight the compelling relationship between Claressa Shields (Ryan Destiny) and her coach, Jason Crutchfield (Brian Tyree Henry), noting that the film delves deep into their dynamic, portraying it as both tender and contentious. The review also praises director Rachel Morrison’s visual storytelling, particularly in the boxing sequences, which are described as emotionally charged and visually coherent. The film is lauded for addressing systemic challenges faced by female athletes, especially women of colour, and for its nuanced portrayal of Shields’s post-victory struggles.
Films Fatale acknowledges the film’s strengths, particularly in its heartfelt portrayal of Claressa Shields’s journey and the strong performances by Ryan Destiny and Brian Tyree Henry. However, the review notes that the narrative follows a conventional sports drama trajectory, making certain plot developments predictable. Despite this, the film’s sincerity and the palpable effort in each scene are highlighted as redeeming qualities, resulting in an inspirational and informative experience.
Performance and Directorial Remarks
Ryan Destiny’s portrayal of Claressa Shields has been widely acclaimed. Critics have noted her ability to capture the complexity of Shields’s character, balancing vulnerability with determination. Brian Tyree Henry’s performance as Jason Crutchfield has also been highlighted as a standout, with his nuanced depiction of a mentor navigating the challenges of coaching a young prodigy.
Rachel Morrison’s directorial debut has been met with praise for its visual storytelling and emotional depth. Her background as a cinematographer is evident in the film’s aesthetic, capturing both the stark realities of Flint and the electrifying atmosphere of the boxing ring. Barry Jenkins’s screenplay provides a strong foundation, weaving Shields’s personal and professional struggles into a cohesive and deeply affecting narrative.
“The Fire Inside” stands as a powerful testament to resilience and determination. Through its compelling performances and insightful storytelling, the film offers an inspiring and thought-provoking portrayal of a trailblazing athlete’s journey. It not only highlights Claressa Shields’s achievements but also sheds light on the broader challenges faced by female athletes striving for recognition and equality.