The film chronicles the inspiring true story of James J. Braddock, an Irish-American boxer from New Jersey who, after falling on hard times during the Great Depression, stages an improbable comeback in the ring. Russell Crowe delivers a powerful performance as Braddock, navigating both the physical demands of boxing and the emotional weight of providing for his family. Renée Zellweger co-stars as his steadfast wife, Mae Braddock, with Paul Giamatti earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his role as Braddock's manager, Joe Gould.

Directed by Ron Howard, Cinderella Man was a passion project that aimed to capture the resilience of the human spirit. While it garnered strong critical acclaim and three Oscar nominations, including nods for Best Film Editing and Best Makeup, the film experienced a somewhat modest performance at the box office. Against an estimated budget of $88 million, it managed a global haul of $108.5 million, a respectable but not blockbuster return.

Despite its theatrical journey, Cinderella Man has found a dedicated audience on streaming platforms, proving to be a consistent hit for Netflix in previous years. Its impending removal marks the end of an era for subscribers who have enjoyed revisiting Braddock's underdog tale from their homes.

For Russell Crowe, the role of James J. Braddock required a significant physical transformation, a dedication to craft he is reportedly channeling once more for an upcoming project. The actor is slated to appear in the highly anticipated Highlander remake, directed by John Wick's Chad Stahelski. The film boasts a star-studded cast alongside Crowe, including Henry Cavill, Dave Bautista, Karen Gillan, Jeremy Irons, Djimon Hounsou, and Marisa Abela, promising another physically demanding role for the veteran actor.