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Based on a manga by Jyoji Morikawa, Fighting Spirit is an upbeat Rocky story that follows a high school nerd from cowardice to pugilistic stardom. Clumsy, maladroit Ippo Makunouchi helps his widowed mother with the family fishing boat business–when he’s not being pounded into paste by bullies. After years of abuse, he lacks the will to defend himself against their taunts and fists. A chance meeting with rising boxing star Takamura convinces Ippo to reinvent himself. Under the guidance of Takamura and crusty gym owner Kamogawa, Ippo applies himself with a mixture of stalwart dedication and puppy-like enthusiasm. The story may be a cliche, but the filmmakers manage to make Ippo so likable that viewers who would never dream of watching a real boxing match may find themselves rooting for the irrepressible kid when he steps into the ring. (Rated 13 and older: violence, nudity, risque humor) –Charles Solomon