The gloves are on for Sydney Sweeney as she takes on one of her most transformative roles yet in Christy, the upcoming boxing biopic from Black Bear.
The trailer introduces audiences to Sweeney as International Boxing Hall of Fame icon Christy Martin, with the film already building Oscar buzz ahead of its November 7 theatrical release.
Directed by David Michôd, who co-wrote the screenplay with Mirrah Foulkes from a story by Katherine Fugate, Christy boasts a strong ensemble cast. Alongside Sweeney, the film features Katy O’Brian, Merritt Wever, Ben Foster, Ethan Embry, Chad L. Coleman, Valyn Hall, and Tony Cavalero.
At the Toronto International Film Festival, where Christy had its world premiere, Sweeney revealed the intense physical transformation required for the role. The Euphoria and Anyone But You star gained 30 pounds to authentically portray the legendary fighter. “I had a nutritionist work with me as well as a weight trainer and a boxing trainer,” Sweeney explained to Variety. “We upped my calorie intake, added protein shakes and supplements, and I ate nonstop – from PB&J sandwiches to milkshakes – because training burned it all off. Keeping the weight up was a real challenge.”
The performance has already earned high praise from critics. Variety’s Owen Gleiberman described Sweeney’s portrayal as a “true-note, game-changing knockout of a performance.” He highlighted her intensity in the ring and the infectious energy she brought to the role. “It’s fun to see her pummeling away and then unleashing a merciless left hook,” Gleiberman wrote, noting how Sweeney’s triumphant grins after each victory reveal her natural star power.
Behind the scenes, Christy boasts a powerhouse team of producers. Kerry Kohansky-Roberts, Justin Lothrop, Teddy Schwarzman, Brent Stiefel, Sweeney herself, and Michôd serve as producers. Executive producers include Foulkes, John Friedberg, Andrew Golov, Michael Heimler, Harrison Huffman, David Levine, Clementine Quittner, Ryan Schwartz, Nick Shumaker, and Brad Zimmerman.
The story of Christy Martin is considered one of the most compelling in the world of sports, blending grit, resilience, and triumph against all odds. With Sweeney stepping into the role, Christy is shaping up to be not just a gripping sports drama but also a potential award-season heavyweight.
Audiences can catch Christy in theaters starting November 7.
Jamie Wells has a knack for getting the inside scoop on Hollywood’s biggest stars and up-and-coming talent. With a sharp eye for industry trends and an ear for viral moments, Jamie covers everything from red-carpet events to behind-the-scenes drama in movies, TV, and celebrity culture.
