Joe and Max (2002)

As with his epic documentary Hoop Dreams, Steve James's dramatized biopic transcends sports to tell the inspiring true story of the surprising friendship that developed between boxers Joe Louis (Leonard Roberts) and Max Schmeling (Til Schweiger). When these two opponents met in the ring for their epic heavyweight championship bouts in the 1930s, they carried their respective worlds on their shoulders. Louis not only represented the hopes and dreams of the black community, but also "the flag of America and democracy." Nazi Germany's propaganda machine hyped Schmeling as the embodiment of "the master race," although Schmeling, whose story carries more dramatic punch, disassociated himself from Hitler. "I'm not a Nazi," he proclaimed. "I'm just a fighter." Joe and Max takes some hits with its often ham-handed script, but it's got great performances in its corner that should make it a contender for audiences beyond fight fans. --Donald Liebenson Amazon.com

Fascinating story, the movie......not so much

The true story behind this film set in the 1930's is truly interesting. Joe Louis and Max Schmeling were from two different worlds. One was an American "Negro" who was determined to overcome racial discrimination and become the heavyweight champion. The other was a German fighter with a Jewish manager who was a hero of the Third Reich. With World War 2 looming in the near future, these two superstars battled twice in the ring-each winning once-while their respective countries held them up as national icons. These two seemingly contradictory characters go on to become close friends, even as their countries become enemies.

With that said, the film was downright disappointing. The acting was mediocre at best. The low-budget feel of the movie was so bad that I felt like I was watching a 1980's made-for-TV movie. The fight scenes looked so fake, they were almost comical. There was maybe two or three scenes where I was actually slightly moved, but otherwise, the film was a total bore. I'm sorry to say that the makers of this film failed to capitalize on a truly fascinating story. Two stars for 'Joe and Max.' October 22, 2006

Could have been a lot better.

I don't know why Hollywood continually portrays men as tongue-tied inepts, but it is way beyond reality.

Max Schmelling was a real neat person who left this world a little better than he found it. I am encouraged by Schmelling's willingness to do the right thing in the midst of WW II oppression.

I did not appreciate the foul language in this movie. This is another way that Hollywood damages people by permeating their "product" with swearing. It ruins an otherwise decent movie.

For that reason, I destroyed this movie. I will not permit my children to be desensitized by this bad example. It's very sad, but not very surprising.

You can read about Max Schmelling's life on the internet and it is a very inspiring story.


gcw,

husband & father

September 18, 2005

Peta Wilson was outstanding!!!

Peta Wilson who played Annie Ondra, the wife of Max Shmeling stole the entire movie!!! She was gorgeous, classy, and raw in her thespian talents. This is an excellent movie if you like period films and suuperb acting. November 4, 2003

Awesome boxig movie!

Boxing fans MUST see this movie. Awesome flick about the drama surrounding two worlds in the 1930's. America vs. Nazi Germany in the boxing world and the drama it caused two great fighters. This film should be seen by all school age children to enlighten them about how pressure and political influence affects the professional sports world. I thorougly enjoyed this movie and highly recommend it! August 15, 2003

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