The Fighter

Following the tragic death of his beloved wife, a retired underground brawler named Leone (Rafael Amaya) returns to the world of illegal street fighting in a desperate bid to help capture "El Chapo," the fearsome head of the powerful criminal underworld. In order to break from his past, Leone will have to embrace it one last time. But surviving long enough to find redemption won't be easy for Leone, because his old boss has vowed revenge, and the authorities are determined to take away his freedom.

Directed by Javier Barbera, The Fighter leans on a strong ensemble — Rafael Amaya, Ana Layevska, Tony Munoz — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 2009.