The best film about a female boxer was made 6 years ago — it's head and shoulders above "Christy" with Sydney Sweeney

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While everyone's discussing the new Sydney Sweeney film "Christy" (2025), where she takes on the role of legendary American athlete Christy Martin, a film came out six years ago that convincingly proves the best movie about a female boxer has already been made.

"Gipsy Queen" (2019) — a powerful drama that combines boxing, social commentary, and incredible acting that earned Alina Ioana Serban the German Actors Guild Award.

And this is one of those cases where an actress truly finds her perfect role.

What the film's about

Ali is a single mother and immigrant trying to survive in Hamburg. She takes any dirty job she can get. The girl was once a junior champion, but her boxing dreams got left far behind.
Gipsy Queen trailer
Everything changes when she meets former boxer Tanne at a nightclub. He sees her talent and convinces her to return to the ring. For Ali, this isn't just a shot at a new life — it's fighting for her children's future.

Boxing here is just a metaphor for the constant hits life keeps throwing at our heroine.

What critics and audiences say

The film scored a solid 6.6 on IMDb. In reviews, some critics call Ali a female version of "Rocky" and compare the film to the cult classic "Million Dollar Baby."

Critics praise the work for its deep social subtext: "While the plot may seem familiar, the social-realist approach gives it particular edge," writes Eye for Film.

What viewers are saying

  • "The woman playing Ali is magnificent. I've watched this film six times."
  • "The film touched me to my core."
  • "This isn't a Cinderella story — it's a real drama about everyday racism."
Gipsy Queen wins you over with its incredibly strong lead actress, the social injustice present in this story, and the fight for a better life.
Letterboxd user MrSvipi

Why this works better than "Christy"

"Christy" with hasn't even been released yet, but the teaser has already sparked a storm of criticism. Viewers are calling out the actress for lacking athletic form and branding the film "Oscar bait."
Girl in black tank top in boxing ring, on the right she's in a colorful jacket practicing punches
Stills from Gipsy Queen
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Many are convinced the film will flop. Against this backdrop, "Gipsy Queen" looks more cohesive and convincing — here there's no need to argue about casting because Serban completely disappeared into her role.

The bottom line

"Gipsy Queen" isn't so much a sports drama as it is a story about survival, motherhood, and inner strength. Boxing here is just a way to show the daily struggle of a woman who won't give up.

And if you're choosing which film truly deserves the title of best movie about a female boxer, it's already been made and available to watch. Earlier on zoomboola.com, we told you about seven best boxing films worth watching while waiting for "Christy."