5 Things you didn’t know about Million Dollar Baby

Get ready to step into the ring. Before Million Dollar Baby airs on eMovies this Thursday, 10 September at 8pm, here are five behind-the-scenes facts about the award-winning drama.

Some films entertain you for two hours. Others stay with you long after the credits roll. Clint Eastwood’s 2004 drama, Million Dollar Baby, is one of those unforgettable films.

Packed with grit, ambition and high-stakes drama, the film follows the unlikely bond between a veteran boxing trainer and a determined fighter chasing her shot at greatness.

Before the bell rings on eMovies this Thursday, 10 September at 8pm, here are five things you may not know about this modern classic.

1. It was filmed in just 37 days

You might expect an Oscar-winning drama to take months to film, but Clint Eastwood is known for working quickly and efficiently. True to form, Million Dollar Baby was reportedly filmed in just 37 days.

2. Hilary Swank trained like a fighter.

To play aspiring boxer Maggie Fitzgerald, Hilary Swank went all in. She trained intensely and gained nearly 9 kilograms of muscle, helping bring Maggie’s strength and determination to life on screen. The performance earned Swank the Oscar for Best Actress.

3. The story has real ringside roots.

The story was adapted from Rope Burns: Stories from the Corner, a collection by F.X. Toole, the pen name of Jerry Boyd. Boyd had real boxing experience as a cutman, manager and trainer, which helped give the film its authentic ringside feel.

4. Clint Eastwood wore four hats.

Clint Eastwood did far more than direct and star as veteran trainer Frankie Dunn. He also co-produced the film and composed its understated piano score, putting his stamp on nearly every part of the production.

5. It was an Oscar heavyweight.

When Million Dollar Baby arrived, it proved to be a true awards-season contender. The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director for Eastwood, Best Actress for Swank and Best Supporting Actor for Morgan Freeman.

Add it to your watchlist.

Whether you’re revisiting this modern classic or watching it for the first time, Million Dollar Baby delivers powerful performances, gripping drama and a story that stays with you. Don’t miss Million Dollar Baby this Thursday, 10 September at 8pm on eMovies, Openview Channel 138.