Paddy Considine’s second feature as a writer-director is a film that actors dream of. This story of a championship boxer who suffers a traumatic brain injury is a stunning showcase for Considine’s acting ability, and that of his co-star Jodie Whittaker. But released a month after British boxer Scott Westgarth died in circumstances similar to the events of the film, does Considine’s writing avoid asking necessary questions about the sport it’s depicting?

Considine plays Matty Burton, a mature and likeable boxer whose refusal to engage in clickbait trash talk belies his competitive nature and determination to end his career on a high. Deciding to defend his title once more before retirement, he proves tenacious in the ring, enduring countless fierce blows from his opponent (Anthony Welsh) before clawing his way to victory. He arrives home, embracing his wife Emma (Whittaker) and sobbing emotionally, conveying the weight and self-worth he had tied up in this fight.

But within moments, Matty has collapsed, the trauma of those vicious headblows taking its toll. It’s here that the real fight begins.