5 Awesome Performances
5. Million Dollar Baby
In this very sombre boxing film from 2004, Clint (also producer and director) plays Frankie Dunn, a boxing trainer too set in his old fashioned ways to want to train an eager waitress (Hilary Swank) willing to do what it takes to become a successful boxer. He reluctantly takes her under his wing and begins to not only form a strong paternal bond with his new protegee but a champion as well. Clint in the lead, shines as the hard edged coach with a soft heart (Oscar nominated for Best Actor), but so does Swank (who picked up her 2nd Best Actress Oscar for her performance) and Morgan Freeman (another Oscar win) as his long time friend. This film deals with sexism, broken families, and euthanasia, all handled masterfully by director Eastwood. As no surprise, this film walked off with 4 Oscars including 2 for Clint, for Best Director and Best Picture.