Cinderella Man (2005)

Based On the Life of: James Braddock

Starring: Russell Crowe

Movie Budget: $88 million

Star Salary: $5 million

2005’s Cinderella Man stars Russell Crowe as James J. Braddock, an ex-boxer trying to survive during the Great Depression. Braddock works as a day laborer, but his fate changes when his former manager offers him a fight against a young newcomer in the ring. Despite steep odds, Braddock wins and decides to enter into the ring full-time.

This true story is titled after James Braddock’s nickname, “Cinderella Man,” which he earned from his “rags to riches” story. The film depicts Braddock’s life as he sets his sights on defeating Max Baer, the fearsome reigning champion boxer.