SHINER

Cinemavixion Review

Seo Mutarevic's "Shiner" (2018) presents a gritty, character-driven narrative centered on the aspirations of a young MMA fighter, Matt Bradford. Portrayed with a compelling mix of naivete and determination, Matt's journey into the demanding world of professional fighting takes an unexpected turn when he falls under the wing of Happy McBride, a once-celebrated but now faded champion. The film deftly explores the complex dynamics that arise as Matt, driven by his ambition, is drawn into Happy's turbulent life, including a burgeoning romance with Happy's daughter, Nikki. This entanglement forces both men to confront their personal demons and redefine their paths. Written by Kevin Bernhardt, who also stars in the film, "Shiner" delves into themes of redemption, mentorship, and the unexpected challenges that love and ambition can present. Despite its modest IMDb rating of 5.6, the film's tight focus on character development and the raw portrayal of the MMA underbelly offer a compelling watch for fans of sports dramas with a strong emotional core.