If you’ve ever wondered about the true story behind Rocky, look no further than the drama Chuck, about real-life boxer Chuck Wepner. If you didn’t know Rocky was based on a real person, you’re not alone—I sure as hell didn’t.
According to Wikipedia, Sylvestor Stallone denies Wepner is Rocky’s inspiration, but that hasn’t stopped the marketing team from casting Chuck as the real deal. Regardless, Chuck is a moderately entertaining if slight film that is definitely no Rocky, but manages to hold out for a few rounds.
Liev Schreiber delivers a strong, immersive performance as the title character, a tough Jersey boy with lots of heart and misguided dedication. He largely carries the film, livening any scene he’s in with unbridled charisma.
The movie itself is simply okay; there’s nothing notably wrong, but Chuck fails to define itself as anything more than being the true story no one really cares about. The movie goes through the motions, standing out neither for its boxing sequences or as a drama. It’s one of those many lighthearted dramas that simply can’t land a blow.
Chuck also stars Schrieber’s ex-partner Naomi Watts, but her talent is unfortunately wasted as the romantic interest.
Chuck is a fun little drama that has its moments and features one of Schreiber’s better performances, but it’s the type of movie you enjoy while watching and then forget shortly thereafter, sort of like the fact that Rocky might have been based on a true story.
Review by Erik Samdahl unless otherwise indicated.