“Nobody wants to see a butch girl fight,” says coach Jim Martin (Ben Foster), advising his young protégé to grow her hair. This advice reflects the attitudes of West Virginia in the mid-1980s, a time when societal norms were strict. Her mother (Merritt Wever), with her soft voice, adds, “What you’re doing isn’t normal, and we want you to have a happy, normal life.”
There’s a long history of cinema shying away from stories about butch women, often assuming audiences wouldn’t embrace them. However, Sydney Sweeney, known for her feminine image, dives into the role of Christy with depth. She brings a unique sweetness to the character that makes her instantly relatable, even amid her boxing challenges. Despite her tough exterior, viewers see her as an endearing kid trying to find her place in a world that doesn’t understand her.
The reality behind Christy’s story is sobering. Early success in boxing raises questions about her future once she faces defeat. More significantly, the struggle she faces isn’t just in the ring. Jim, her coach, starts to exert control over her life, pushing her into an unhealthy relationship. This dynamic portrays the complexities of abusive relationships, which often extend beyond mere physicality.
Historical context highlights how far we’ve come in discussing gender and sexuality in sports, but residual stigma remains. According to a 2021 survey by the Sports Media Association, while there’s increasing representation of women athletes, discussions around their identities often lead to stereotypes. Christy embodies this challenge, transitioning from a spirited girl to someone influenced by external pressures and disappointment.
Director David Michôd cleverly contrasts moments of tenderness with the underlying creepiness of Jim’s control. The film skims the surface of deeper issues, opting to showcase psychological shifts rather than explicit violence. Christy’s loyal dog serves as a witness, reminding viewers of the innocence slowly fading away.
As Christy’s life spirals, her once playful spirit turns abrasive. What was once a cheeky comeback becomes unwelcome insensitivity. Her relationship with her mother reveals the cultural pressures shaping her behavior, demonstrating how societal expectations can harm women. Merritt’s performance vividly captures the stifling nature of these ingrained beliefs.
Despite personal turmoil, Christy’s boxing prowess shines. The film’s fight scenes are engaging, focusing on the closeness of each match. This visceral connection is the only domain where Christy feels powerful, highlighting how an abusive environment can skew one’s sense of self. There’s a crucial turning point where she finds her voice, emphasizing that this awakening can be dangerous.
The script maintains a strong balance, avoiding excessive drama while keeping the viewer engaged. Christy’s frustrations translate well, particularly when few women present a challenge. Sweeney’s performance adds freshness to the narrative, steering it clear of cliché. The film ultimately leads viewers to ponder how society would react to a butch woman receiving accolades, reflecting on changing attitudes in contemporary cinema.
Christy premieres in cinemas across the UK & Ireland on 28 November.
Reviewed on: 03 Nov 2025
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