Lovely

In Lovely, Liam “Lee” (Mark Bacolcol), a boxer on the road to becoming a pro, is confronted by life-changing news—he’s about to become a father. Confronted by this revelation, he feels trapped as he grapples with the limitations of his circumstances and the fact that all he knows how to do is fight. What initially appears to be a straightforward boxing film evolves into an exploration of a young man struggling to understand his identity beyond that of a local boxing champ.

Set against the bustling highrise community of Bleecker in downtown Toronto, Lovely is a heartfelt portrayal of boyhood and masculinity. It’s enriched by its vibrant setting, expertly captured by director Serville Poblete. It’s the relationships in the film that lend it authenticity. Lee is challenged and supported by his girlfriend Briana (Victoria Lenhardt), his best friend Nate (Melika Ghali), and his coach (Elton Tannis). 

This film marks the second collaboration between Poblete and writer-actor Mark Bacolcol. Like Altar Boy (2021), it tackles a daunting passage into adulthood, grounded in intimate moments and made more engaging by its understated humour. 

– Marina Hanna