Sydney Sweeney’s new film Christy faces sharp criticism from reviewers who call it predictable and formulaic. The movie, directed by David Michôd and co-written with Mirrah Foulkes, tells the story of boxer Christy Martin’s rise to fame in the 1990s. Sweeney gained 30 pounds to play Martin, a former professional fighter who broke barriers in women’s boxing.
The film explores Christy’s fame and her personal struggles, including years of domestic violence and her husband’s failed attempt to kill her in 2010. The movie premiered at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival on September 5. Critics continue to publish reviews ahead of its November theatrical release.
While some praised Sweeney’s performance, many reviewers attacked the film’s tone and lack of depth. Christy holds a 71% score on Rotten Tomatoes, with some calling it “Oscar bait” and accusing the filmmakers of chasing awards instead of authenticity.
Mixed Reviews and Divided Reactions
Mashable’s Kristy Puchko wrote, “Sydney Sweeney’s Oscar swing misses the mark.” Louis Roberts for Loud and Clear claimed, “Sweeney transforms into a boxing pioneer in a drama built to grab Academy attention.”
Other critics said the film felt hollow. David Rooney from The Hollywood Reporter noted, “The film stays emotionally flat. Sweeney’s physical transformation impresses, but Christy lacks her own spark.”
Benjamin Lee of The Guardian argued, “Christy Martin’s real life delivered knockout moments, but her biopic barely lands a punch.” Calum Cooper from In Their Own League added, “Between tonal imbalance and cliché-ridden writing, the film swings hard but misses.”
Praise for Sweeney’s Performance
Despite harsh reviews, The Times praised Christy as “a proper movie,” highlighting Sweeney’s layered portrayal. “Sweeney carries the film with ease,” the review said. “Her Christy beams with pride in the ring but hides flashes of deep resentment and rage.”
Doug Jamieson of The Jam Report echoed that sentiment: “Sweeney’s performance is powerful and deeply committed, though the film itself stays conventional and safe.”
Peter Howell of the Toronto Star added, “David Michôd delivers a heavy drama, but Sweeney’s intensity lights up every scene.”
While critics remain divided on the film’s execution, most agree on one thing — Sydney Sweeney gives Christy its only real punch.
