Before Rocky became a franchise, there was another heavyweight underdog story that captured the hearts of moviegoers—and now it's coming to Netflix. Russell Crowe's Cinderella Man, the 2005 boxing drama directed by Ron Howard, will start streaming on the platform in the United States on June 1, 2026. It's a chance for a new generation to discover a film that many consider Crowe's finest sports performance.
Crowe was riding high after his Oscar win for Gladiator in 2001, and he quickly followed up with another awards contender, A Beautiful Mind, which won Best Picture. But his next collaboration with Howard took a different path. Cinderella Man tells the true story of James Braddock, a heavyweight boxer who rose from poverty during the Great Depression to become a symbol of hope for millions of Americans. The film also stars Renée Zellweger as Braddock's wife, Mae, and Paul Giamatti as his trainer, Joe Gould.
Despite strong reviews—it holds an 80% critics' score and a 91% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes—Cinderella Man wasn't a box office smash. It earned about $110 million worldwide on a $90 million budget, a modest return compared to Howard and Crowe's previous hit. Yet over the years, the film has been reappraised as a gritty, emotionally resonant sports drama that deserves a second look. Its audience score reflects that growing appreciation.
For fans of boxing movies or underdog tales, Cinderella Man is a must-watch. It's also a reminder of Crowe's range as an actor—he went from Roman gladiator to Depression-era pugilist with ease. If you missed it in theaters, now's your chance to catch up. And if you're looking for other titles leaving Netflix soon, check out our list of Shiva Baby and Fifty Shades of Grey.
Netflix has been adding a mix of classic and contemporary films to its library, and Cinderella Man fits right in. It's a film that resonates with audiences looking for inspiration and authenticity. The movie's depiction of the Great Depression is both stark and hopeful, making it a timeless story of resilience.
So mark your calendars for June 1. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, Cinderella Man is a knockout addition to Netflix's streaming lineup. Stay tuned to ShowtimeSpot for more updates on what's coming and going from your favorite streaming services.
