Sydney Sweeney looks unrecognizable as she transforms into legendary boxer Christy Martin on the set of David Michôd‘s upcoming biopic in Charlotte, North Carolina, on October 13, 2024. See the images below.
In the images, Sweeney looks unrecognizable with her hourglass curves, sporting a curly brunette wig, a blue bandana, and baggy clothing to channel Martin’s ’90s heyday. She also applied facial makeup to resemble Martin.
Directed by Michod from a screenplay he co-wrote with Mirrah Foulkes.
The untitled film portrays the true story of Martin’s rise as America’s foremost female boxer in the 1990s, earning her the title of the “female Rocky” according to the film’s producers. Gifted in the ring, her life took a turn in 1989 upon meeting her manager, later husband, Jim Martin. She shattered norms by becoming the first woman to sign with Don King and the sole female boxer featured on Sports Illustrated’s cover. Despite her charisma and ring prowess, she faced personal struggles, including toxic relationships and a near-fatal attack.
In the film, Sweeney stars as Christy Martin, alongside Ben Foster as James V. Martin, Merritt Wever as Joyce Salters, Katy O’Brian as Lisa Holewyne, Ethan Embry as John Salters, Jess Gabor as Sherry Lusk, Chad L. Coleman as Don King, and Tony Cavalero as James Maloney.
In a statement to Deadline, Sweeney said, “I grappled and did kickboxing from 12-19 years old. I’ve been itching to get back into the ring, train, and transform my body. Christy’s story isn’t a light one, it’s physically and emotionally demanding, and there’s a lot of weight to carry. But I love challenging myself.”
Sweeney continued, “Christy Martin not only legitimized female boxing, she overcame gender stereotypes, and fought through emotional, physical, and financial abuse.” Sweeney added. “I’m passionate about the fighting world, Christy’s story shines a light on her incredible rise to the top while showing the struggles of fame behind the curtains. I feel compelled to tell a story about a woman who faced so much adversity and didn’t allow it to defeat her. It’s powerful and emotional.”
Director Michôd said, “I have a history of making movies about damaged men, and I’d been wanting to make a film about a woman with ferocious energy inside her. When I came across the Christy Martin story two years ago, I knew I’d found it. Her ferocity is intelligible and justifiable, and audiences will crave it because of the circumstances she was forced to endure.”
Produced by Kerry Kohansky-Roberts (Boy Erased) for Anonymous Content, Michôd for Yoki, Justin Lothrop and Brent Stiefel (As You Are) for Votiv, Sweeney for Fifty-Fifty Films, and Teddy Schwarzman for Black Bear, which is also fully financing. The filmmakers mention that Martin, the film’s subject, has been collaborating with the team on the project. Executive producers include Michael Heimler, John Friedberg, Foulkes, Brad Zimmerman for Yoki, Inc., and David Levine, Ryan Schwartz, and Nick Shumaker for Anonymous Content.
The film’s release date is scheduled for 2025.
Source: Dailymail.Co.Uk
