source: Split Decisions

Split Decisions

I'm always intrigued at Jeff Fahey's versatility in his various performances. The first I ever saw of him was The Lawnmower Man (1992). He's been in stuff long before, but I think that's what he's most notable for. His performance in this movie wasn't Oscar worthy of course, but Jeff Fahey as a boxer is not a role I would expect him in. I don't know the extent of his fan base, but I'd say he's underrated. Regarding the movie - I liked it. I remember when I first saw the trailer for it in 1988 and I right away I wanted to see it. I really thought that Pedrosa was a very intimidating villain. He just looks like the kind of boxer that would be brutal. If that match between he and Ray did happen, Ray wouldn't have a prayer. This movie is perfectly enjoyable. The revenge storyline is not new, but it does generate some tension.

It's hard to believe they actually made this film. What were they thinking? Better yet, what were Gene Hackman, Jeff Fahey, and Jennifer Beals thinking? They do a decent job in the acting area but the plot is so stale it looks like a fight film from the 40s. And the fight scenes are so staged it looks an amateur film. I mean, after "Rocky" we are all used to some pretty good fight scenes where it looks like the guy is actually being hit. If you like fight films there are two good Rocky films, especially the first which I thought was excellent. As they continued to make them they ultimately devalued the original, but at the time I thought it was brilliant. Now that it is a cliché it's hard to remember how powerful the original was. In addition to Rocky I liked "The Fighter" (2010), "Warrior" (2011), "Fight Club" (1999), "Raging Bull" (1980), "Cinderella Man" (2005), "Champion" (1949), and "The Set-up" (1949). Of course I've left out the Kung Fu genre.

Following a well worn cliché path, "Split Decisions" is far from original, nevertheless I found it entertaining. The three generations of Irish boxers seem to be in constant turmoil, but in the end stand together nicely. Gene Hackman is not the star here, even with top billing. It is Craig Sheffer and Jeff Fahey, as Hackman's sons, who carry the film. Jennifer Beals really has nothing to do, and is totally wasted. Character development is good, and the truncated boxing scenes are exciting............................. If you are willing to accept this revenge in the ring film for what it is, it is very watchable. - MERK

Eddie McGuinn is a young amateur boxer who's good enough for the Olympics. His brother Ray also boxes, but he's an egotistical hothead who aligns himself with lowlifes. When the mob tells Ray to lose a fight against "Snake" Pedroza, he refuses, and is killed by mafia thugs and Pedroza himself. As a result, Eddie decides to put his Olympic dreams behind and turn pro so he can fight Pedroza himself, and avenge his brother's death. Simply it is amazing, it may not be one of Hackman's best known films but it is one of his best. A must see.

I can't remember if I saw this Movie at the theatre but have Loved it since I found the VHS at my local Video Store Years back. In remembrance of Gene Hackman s Birthday I bought the DVD on Amazon and rewatched again. Totally underated Boxing Movie that is For Sure. The Fighting McGuinns could match up with ROCKY in the Ring anyway. Straight Forward Story. Mob Guys want something the Brothers won't do and Dad and Grandad help. Pretty Violent but Brothers Love Strong ! Family Loyalty abides.