They Fight Movie True Story Inspires New Feature Film with Andre Holland

A new feature film adaptation of the documentary They Fight is officially in the works. Andre Holland and Wendell Pierce will star in the project, which has just wrapped production. The movie is slated for release on Disney+ and Hulu.

The film tells the powerful true story of a Washington D.C. youth boxing program. It is based on the 2018 documentary of the same name, which highlighted the program’s impact on young athletes.

Cast and Storyline Details Revealed

Andre Holland plays Walt Manigan, a former convict seeking redemption. He returns home to reconnect with his loved one, Ketta, played by Samira Wiley. His journey leads him to a struggling boxing gym at a local rec center.

Wendell Pierce takes on the role of Coach Slim, a wise mentor. Together, they guide a group of young boxers training for the junior national tournament. The story builds toward a dramatic showdown between two best friends, Quincey and Peanut, competing for a single spot on the U.S. Junior Olympic Team. According to reports, the film received support from the Maryland Film Commission.

Long Road to Production for Inspiring Drama

Director Sheldon Candis helms the project, co-writing the script with Andrew Renzi. Renzi also directed the original documentary that inspired the film. This marks Candis’s first feature since his 2012 Sundance debut, Luv.

The production brings together a team of producers with a shared history. They previously collaborated on various projects, including the 2015 feature The Benefactor. The film’s ensemble cast also includes Mykelti Williamson, Andre Royo, and Amanda Warren.

The They Fight movie true story brings a powerful narrative of redemption and community to a global audience. This project highlights the transformative power of sports for young people. Its upcoming release is highly anticipated.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the release date for the They Fight movie?

A specific premiere date has not yet been announced. The film will be released on the Disney+ and Hulu streaming platforms following its recent production wrap.

Is the They Fight movie based on a true story?

Yes, it is based on the 2018 documentary of the same name. The documentary followed the real-life Sugar Ray Leonard Boxing Center in Washington, D.C., and its young athletes.

Who is directing the They Fight feature film?

Sheldon Candis is directing the movie. He also co-wrote the script with Andrew Renzi, the director of the original documentary that inspired the project.

Who else is in the cast alongside Andre Holland?

The cast includes Wendell Pierce as Coach Slim and Samira Wiley as Ketta. It also features Mykelti Williamson, Andre Royo, and several young actors playing the boxers.

Where was the They Fight movie filmed?

Production took place in Maryland. The project received support from the Maryland Film Commission and utilized the state’s film tax credit program.