97 - "Million Dollar Baby" (2004)

     What is it about boxing that makes it a sport that has turned out so many great movies? I don't know, but there have been so many wonderful films about the sport and this one is no exception. In fact, I think it's one of the best (although not the best....more to come later in the list). Million Dollar Baby stars Clint Eastwood as Frankie Dunn, a washed up boxing trainer who because of personal relationships in his life has not let himself get too close to anyone on a personal level in many years. He runs a training gym with longtime friend and assistant Eddie, portrayed by the always stellar Morgan Freeman. One day a young country girl comes into his gym and starts working out. At first Frankie is annoyed by her but her determination and will to keep trying slowly works on him and he agrees to train her eventually. The two slowly develop a bond and reach a point where they both realize they are what has been missing from each others lives. The girl, Maggie, is played by Hilary Swank and she picked up her second Best Actress Oscar for this role and it is very deserving. The movie also took home Oscars for Best Picture, Director (Eastwood) and Supporting Actor (Freeman). One of the finest films of the past decade and is a must see.