Sydney Sweeney’s new film Christy faces strong criticism from reviewers who call it “predictable” and “Oscar bait.” The movie portrays former professional boxer Christy Martin, played by Sweeney, who reportedly gained 30 pounds to embody the role.
Director David Michôd and co-writer Mirrah Foulkes present Martin’s rise as the most prominent female boxer of the 1990s. The film also explores her violent marriage, domestic abuse, and her husband’s 2010 attempt to kill her.
The Euphoria star premiered the film at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival on September 5. Critics continue to release mixed reviews before its November theatrical debut.
Praise for Sweeney, Criticism for Storytelling
Some reviewers applaud Sweeney’s dedication, while others dismiss the project as shallow. The film currently holds a 71% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with many calling it a desperate awards bid.
Kristy Puchko wrote for Mashable, “Sydney Sweeney’s Oscar bid misses its mark.” Louis Roberts from Loud and Clear added, “Sweeney becomes a boxing pioneer in Michôd’s Christy, a drama shamelessly built to attract Academy voters.”
Several critics argue that the story lacks depth. David Rooney from The Hollywood Reporter stated, “The film feels stubbornly emotionless. Sweeney earns praise for her transformation, but Christy needs more spark.”
Benjamin Lee of The Guardian remarked, “Christy Martin’s life delivered powerful punches, but the film barely lands one. Sweeney fights bravely but loses in a clichéd biopic.”
Calum Cooper from In Their Own League agreed: “The film swings hard but misses. Its tone wavers, its clichés dominate, and its performances fluctuate.”
Acting Wins Applause Despite Familiar Formula
Not all reactions lean negative. The Times praised Christy as “a proper movie,” highlighting Sweeney’s layered portrayal. “Sweeney carries the story with ease,” the review read. “Her Christy beams with pride yet hides deep resentment and buried rage.”
Other critics echoed this sentiment. Doug Jamieson from The Jam Report wrote, “Sweeney’s passionate performance lifts an otherwise formulaic biopic that never matches its subject’s boldness.”
Peter Howell of The Toronto Star added, “David Michôd’s film proves difficult to watch, but Sweeney’s performance blazes with energy.”
While critics debate the film’s merit, most agree on one thing: Sydney Sweeney’s performance delivers the only knockout in Christy.
