Sandy Kenyon reviews new boxing drama "Southpaw" starring Jake Gyllenhaal

NEW YORK (WABC) -- A down on his luck boxer looking for a second shot is hardly a new concept for the big screen.

But a cast of A-listers has taken on the story anyway, in the movie "Southpaw."

The movie is a showcase for one of our most versatile stars. Jake Gyllenhaal trained to be believable in the ring, and the depth of his performance proves equal to his impressive physique.

Together with the other performers, he elevates the material far beyond where it otherwise would be.

Every cliche from every sports movie you have ever seen can be found somewhere in "Southpaw", so why should you bother to go see it?

The answer lies in the stars. Jake Gyllenhaal as an aging boxer, Rachel McAdams as his wife, rapper 50 Cent as his promoter, and Forrest Whitaker as his trainer.

The boxer has lost his wife and seen his career go in the toilet.

Next, his daughter gets taken away from him.

And all that has brought Hope here to the gym to train with Whitaker.

So begins his comeback and the outcome is never in doubt, but the journey is made so interesting by the performers. I didn't mind the standard stuff.

Director Antoine Fuqua directed Denzel Washington to an Oscar for "Training Day", and this time it was Jake who took his training to heart.

His commitment and the way he inhabited his part, body and soul, makes this movie a very welcome break from all of the mindless summer blockbusters.

"Southpaw" is more compelling than its very predictable script. Not often you can say that. A top director at the peak of his powers, directing a wonderful cast makes this film very watchable.

It's in theaters everywhere Friday.