The Set-Up (1949)

Synopsis: Considered one of the most realistic and gripping boxing films ever made, THE SET-UP is an emotionally charged story of the dirty dealings of boxing and an aging boxer who ignores them and fights... Considered one of the most realistic and gripping boxing films ever made, THE SET-UP is an emotionally charged story of the dirty dealings of boxing and an aging boxer who ignores them and fights to win. Filmed in real time, the film essentially chronicles 72 uninterrupted minutes of one night. Robert Ryan is Bill "Stoker" Thompson, who, against his wife's (Audrey Totter) pleading, prepares himself for an unimportant fight but one he believes will put him on top again if he wins. Stoker's crooked manager, Tiny (George Tobias), has already taken money from a hood, Danny (Edwin Max), in return for Stoker's throwing the fight. Danny's boss, Little Boy (Alan Baxter), is a local gangster who's invested heavily in Stoker's opponent (Hal Fieberling). Even Stoker's trainer (Percy Helton) is involved in a cut of the money. All of this occurs without the boxer's knowledge, as they all assume he has no chance to win anyway. A grueling fight ensues, enhanced by magnificent cinematography by Milton Krasner and director Robert Wise's expert pacing. THE SET-UP, based on a poem by Joseph Monsure March, is poignant, action-packed, and totally absorbing, a unique viewing experience. [More]

Starring: Robert Ryan, Audrey Totter, Alan Baxter, George Tobias

Starring: Robert Ryan, Audrey Totter, Alan Baxter, George Tobias, Wallace Ford, Percy Helton, Hal Baylor, Darryl Hickman

Director: Robert Wise

Director: Robert Wise
Producer: Richard Goldstone
Screenwriter: Art Cohn

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