Shadow Boxers

Filmmaker Katya Bankowsky paints a compelling overview of women's boxing in this 1999 documentary that focuses on Netherlands-born world champion Lucia Rijker. Providing background info about the WIBF (Women's International Boxing Federation)--including a segment featuring founder Barbara Buttrick--the program lightly touches on topics such as promoters, trainers, injuries, and devotion to the sport, with clips featuring novices on the amateur competition circuit. But the main event is Rijker's climb to a championship title--she's been fighting (from karate to kickboxing) since age 12--chronicled here through archival footage and interviews that reveal a determined and disciplined athlete. Fighting in locations including Rotterdam, Holland, Corpus Christi, Reno, and L.A., Rijker is an unstoppable force, kicking butt each time out (only one match against a markedly mannish opponent stands out as a close call). Memorable segments include Rijker's stint in New York at Stan Hoffman's Training Camp (where, as the only female, she puts up with plenty of pugilist machismo flak), and her jubilant hoisting of her trainer following a victory. Featuring original music by Zoel, this captivating roller coaster ride will have you rooting for Rijker and hooting for more. Highly recommended. [Note: DVD extras include a three-minute behind-the-scenes featurette with filmmaker Bankowsky.] Aud: C, P. (J. Williams)