Delivering a fully committed, moving performance, Thomas Haden Church makes you pay attention to a figure you would otherwise pass by without a second thought.

Gritty authenticity goes up against cloying pathos - with the latter unfortunately emerging victorious - in the skid row drama "Cardboard Boxer."

Mr. Lee, straining, ends up delivering a sentimentalism that undermines Mr. Church's performance and this film's promise.

You should always be suspicious of homeless dramas that star Oscar-nominated Hollywood actors.