“The Champion” (1949) starring Kirk Douglas / Z-View

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The Champion (1949)

Director:  Mark Robson

Screenplay:  Carl Foreman; based on Champion by Ring Lardner

Stars: Kirk Douglas, Arthur Kennedy, Marilyn Maxwell, Paul Stewart, Ruth Roman, Ruth Roman, Harry Shannon, John Daheim, Esther Howard, Sam Balter (voice), Polly Bergen (voice), Mushy Callahan and Bill Baldwin.

Tagline:  Fighting or loving, he was the… CHAMPION

The Plot…

Michael “Midge” Kelly (Douglas) and his brother, Connie (Kennedy) are down on their luck.  They hitched-hiked across country after sending their entire savings to become partners in a diner.  Only to find out they had been scammed.

When a local boxing promotor needs a fighter at the last minute, he offers Midge $35 to step in.  Midge does.  Although outclassed, Midge shows heart and that he can take a punch.  Boxing manager, Tommy Hailey (Stewart) offers to become Midge’s manager.  Midge declines.

Later when Midge realizes that professional boxing might provide the kind of life he dreams of, he reconnects with Tommy Hailey.  Midge is a fast learner and tough.  Midge climbs in the rankings beating everyone put in front of him.  Outside the ring, Midge sees every woman as a conquest.  Fame is going to his head.

As Midge gets closer to a title fight, he gets farther away from the people who truly care for him.  What is Midge willing to give up to become the Champion?

Thoughts (beware of spoilers)…

Champion was nominated for six 1950 Academy Awards, winning one…

  • Nominee for Best Music, Scoring of a Dramatic or Comedy Picture – Dimitri Tiomkin
  • Nominee for Best Cinematography, Black-and-White – Franz Planer
  • Nominee for Best Writing, Screenplay – Carl Foreman
  • Nominee for Best Actor in a Supporting Role – Arthur Kennedy
  • Nominee for Best Actor in a Leading Role – Kirk Douglas
  • Winner – Best Film Editing: Harry Gerstad

Most folks know that Champion made Kirk Douglas a star.  He was nominated for a Best Actor Oscar. The film led to Warner Bros. signing him to a seven year contract.  Director Mark Robson, co-stars Lola Albright and Ruth Roman were also signed to studio contracts.

The Champion (1949) rates 4 of 5 stars.