HANDS OF STONE (2016)

Summary:

Hands of Stone is a biographical sports film that chronicles the life and career of legendary Panamanian boxer Roberto Durán. The movie primarily focuses on his humble beginnings, his meteoric rise to world championship status, and his complex, yet profound, relationship with his American trainer, Ray Arcel.

The film delves into Durán's fierce determination, his raw, aggressive fighting style that earned him the nickname "Manos de Piedra" (Hands of Stone), and the personal and professional challenges he faced, including his iconic rivalry with Sugar Ray Leonard and the controversial "No Más" fight. It's a story of ambition, mentorship, and the price of fame.

Keywords: Hands of Stone, 2016, Edgar Ramírez, Robert De Niro, Usher, Boxing, Biography, Drama.

Plot:

The narrative begins in Panama, tracing Roberto Durán's impoverished childhood and his early displays of fighting prowess on the streets. Discovered by legendary boxing trainer Ray Arcel, Durán is molded into a professional boxer, quickly gaining a reputation for his devastating power and relentless aggression. Their relationship, initially contentious due to Durán's fiery temperament and Arcel's strict discipline, evolves into a deep bond of mutual respect and father-son affection.

Durán ascends through the ranks, capturing multiple world titles and becoming a national hero in Panama. His career culminates in a highly anticipated showdown with the charismatic American boxer Sugar Ray Leonard. After a grueling first fight where Durán defeats Leonard, their rematch becomes one of boxing's most infamous moments when Durán, exhausted and frustrated, seemingly quits in the middle of the fight, uttering "No Más" (No More). The film explores the aftermath of this controversial event, Durán's struggle for redemption, and his eventual reconciliation with both his past and his mentor.

Cast (Lead Roles):

• Edgar Ramírez as Roberto Durán
• Robert De Niro as Ray Arcel
• Usher Raymond IV as Sugar Ray Leonard
• Ana de Armas as Felicidad Durán
• Rubén Blades as Carlos Eleta

Crew:

• Director: Jonathan Jakubowicz
• Writer: Jonathan Jakubowicz
• Producers: Jonathan Jakubowicz, Claudine Jakubowicz, Jay Weisleder, Carlos García de Paredes, Arturo Melchor
• Music by: Marcelo Zarvos
• Cinematography: Miguel Ioann Littin Menz

Release Info:

• Original Release Date: August 26, 2016 (USA)
• Language: English, Spanish
• Genre: Biography, Drama, Sport
• Running Time: 105 minutes
• Accolades: Robert De Niro's performance as Ray Arcel received critical acclaim.