Brian Tyree Henry: "The Fire Inside"

Brian Tyree Henry repairs utility poles; this is his job. But, during off-hours, he pursues his passion, which is the study and practice of boxing. He has always loved boxing; some miscalculations have resulted in his *not* becoming a professional boxer. However, he enjoys teaching. He is "the loudest one in the room."

A stranger comes to town. It's Ryan Destiny, who wants to enter a "boys' club." Soon, the Olympics will break with tradition and make space for women's boxing. Ryan has a special kind of fury, perhaps because her parents are negligent, perhaps because she has endured sexual assault. She wants to beat people up.

BTH recognizes Ryan's extraordinary talent. The boxing part is easy. But it's harder to translate Ryan's wins into a viable career, because America seems unwilling to idolize an "unfeminine" phenomenon from Flint, Michigan. America's neglect enrages Ryan. BTH tries to give a holier-than-thou speech: "I don't care about money. I just want you to get recognition." And Ryan calls him on his bullshit. "Money IS recognition."

The fascinating script takes BTH far, far outside of his comfort zone. This isn't someone who cares about contracts, endorsements, wardrobe fittings. But it's someone who learns to play a new game, simply because he feels love for his protege. This love is tested and tested; Ryan is a pain in the ass. BTH responds with sacrifice after sacrifice--but the performance never becomes maudlin or sentimental.

Brian Tyree Henry wins praise every year. He seems capable of Shakespearean intensity. It's difficult to look away from him. Here, he is aided by a smart script; the writing should win awards. It's also a pleasure to see Olufunke Akindele, as "the mom"; she has no illusions about this character, but she still finds compassion for the real-world family she is representing on-screen.

Terrific movie.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KFyNvUmJzmE

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