Sean Ellis’s latest film, The Cut, is a striking departure from his previous work, including the atmospheric vampire tale Eight for Silver. This sixth feature tells the story of a washed-up boxer who secretly agrees to a comeback fight in Las Vegas, creating a psychological thriller rather than a traditional underdog sports narrative. The film explores the extreme measures fighters may take under pressure, drawing parallels with this year’s Cannes sensation, The Substance.
In The Cut, Orlando Bloom takes the lead role as the boxer, showcasing a new side of his acting skills. With the help of prosthetics, Bloom transforms into a character who bears the marks of struggle and uncertainty about his boxing comeback. The film’s tension builds dramatically during the weigh-in, a pivotal moment that may determine his ability to compete in his weight class. His wife and trainer, played by Caitríona Balfe, can only take him so far before he encounters the enigmatic Boz, portrayed by John Turturro, who exploits the boxer’s vulnerabilities.
Ahead of the film’s world premiere at the Toronto Film Festival, Bloom and Ellis discussed the project and its underlying themes. Bloom first became involved through producer Mark Lane, who had previously collaborated with him on a different project. He immediately connected with The Cut’s unique premise, emphasizing the internal struggle of a boxer rather than focusing solely on the boxing match itself.
Ellis shared his own interest in creating a fresh take on boxing films, acknowledging how many in the genre have become formulaic. The narrative of The Cut dives deep into the rigorous physical and emotional preparation an athlete undertakes, intending to provide a more profound experience than what audiences might expect from a sports drama.
Bloom detailed his weight loss journey for the role, noting he started at around 185 pounds and worked with nutritionists to carefully adjust his eating habits and exercise regime. As filming approached, he dropped to 152 pounds for the critical weigh-in scene. The weight loss timeline dictated a unique shooting schedule, as the film was shot in reverse order, allowing him to regain weight as the production progressed to ensure he had the necessary energy and focus for filming.
Ellis expressed admiration for Bloom’s commitment, mentioning the lengths he was willing to go to authentically embody the role. The physical transformation included significant makeup work to give Bloom the appearance of a seasoned fighter, including simulated injuries and alterations to his facial structure.
The casting of Caitríona Balfe came after extensive discussions about finding an Irish actress to complement Bloom’s performance. Their on-screen dynamic was further developed through conversations that shaped how their characters evolved throughout the film.
John Turturro’s character, Boz, unexpectedly brought a different dimension to the film. Initially conceived as a straightforward drill sergeant-like figure, Turturro’s portrayal infused the role with complexity and potential for manipulation, transforming Boz into a character with deeper psychological implications.
As they prepare for the film’s premiere, both Ellis and Bloom expressed hope for positive audience reactions, emphasizing the strong performances and impactful storytelling. Bloom reflected on the film’s intense emotional engagement, likening it to memorable moments in theater that evoke silence and discomfort, capturing the audience’s attention entirely. The Cut offers commentary on the challenges male athletes face, grappling with self-worth and the lengths to which they will go to seek fulfillment.