Body and Soul (1981)

FROM THE LINER NOTES

Based on the 1947 classic of the same name, this entertaining rags-to-riches tale about a vivacious young fighter from Chicago pulls no punches in its portrayal of boxing’s dark side.

Golden Gloves champ Leon (Kennedy) has no interest in becoming a pro boxer; instead, he wants to be a doctor. But when his little sister requires immediate and expensive medical treatments, he decides to go for the title and all the money it will bring. On his way to the top, however, Leon succumbs to the temptations that come with success: money, flesh, ego. As a result, he begins to lose everyone and everything he used to care about. Can Leon pull his life back together, or is he too far gone to be redeemed?