Sydney Sweeney refuses to worry about the weak box office debut of her new boxing biopic Christy. Directed by David Michôd, the film hit theaters last Friday, featuring Sweeney, 28, as boxing icon Christy Martin. The movie earned only $1.3 million domestically, one of the lowest openings in years. Shown in 2,011 theaters, it averaged $649 per location, far below major blockbusters.
Pride Over Profit
Sweeney, who also produced the film, celebrated the project’s deeper message on Instagram. “I am so deeply proud of this movie,” she wrote, sharing behind-the-scenes photos. She praised the film’s message of resilience and hope, saying it honors Christy Martin’s courage. “We made this movie to save lives,” she added. “If Christy’s story inspires one woman to seek safety, we’ve succeeded.” Sweeney emphasized that true art creates change, not just revenue.
The Real Christy Martin’s Story
The film recounts Christy Martin’s rise to fame and the abuse she endured from her ex-husband and manager, Jim. Martin met Jim at 22 when he was 47; they married in 1991. Years of violence ended in 2010 when Jim shot and stabbed her as she tried to leave him. A court convicted him of attempted second-degree murder in 2012, sentencing him to 25 years in prison. He died last November while serving his term. Christy premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September and is now playing in theaters.
