The Fire Inside (2024)

[BluBonnet]

This movie just showed up at TIFF and there's already talk of a potential Oscar for Brian Tyree Henry.

Can't wait to watch.

‘The Fire Inside’ Sparks Oscar Buzz for Brian Tyree Henry at TIFF

Following in the footsteps of Oscar-nominated boxing coaches like Paul Giamatti in “Cinderella Man” and Burgess Meredith in “Rocky,” Brian Tyree Henry could make another trip to the Oscars for his standout role as Jason Crutchfield in the uplifting and inspirational drama “The Fire Inside.” Henry portrays the coach who trains Claressa Shields, the first female boxer to win an Olympic gold medal.

The film, produced by Amazon MGM, made its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival on Saturday afternoon before a sold-out crowd. Debut director Rachel Morrison, who made history as the first woman nominated for an Academy Award for cinematography with Mudbound (2017), introduced the film. She later joined a post-screening Q&A alongside producer Elishia Holmes, writer and producer Barry Jenkins, and stars Ryan Destiny and Henry. Also present were the actual Claressa Shields and her coach, Jason Crutchfield.

Henry, who received his first Oscar nomination for “Causeway” in 2022, delivers a performance full of wisdom and introspection. During the screening, he earned at least two rounds of applause. With a relatively thin field in this year’s supporting actor race, Henry could be a strong contender.

Jenkins, who won an Oscar for adapted screenplay for the best picture winner “Moonlight,” writes a layered script that goes beyond Shields’ athletic accomplishments, addressing the challenges she faced after winning her medal. The film tackles issues like pay inequality and gender discrimination in sports, offering a deeper narrative about the struggles of female athletes.