Fightville

Fightville is a 2011 MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) documentary that explores the brutal, challenging, and ambitious world of this rising sport on a closely personal level. The film attempts to peel back the curtain on one of the most misunderstood sports in the world, providing an intimate and authentic look at the lives of those involved.

The central figures of Fightville are 'Bad' Chad Broussard, Jere' Folley Chaisson, and Tim Credeur. These committed men hail from different backgrounds but share a common drive and determination within the world of MMA, providing us with first-hand access to the hopes, hard work, and dedication required to succeed in this sport.

'Bad' Chad Broussard is showcased as an ambitious, passionate MMA promoter and the founder of USA-MMA, an organization centered in Lafayette, Louisiana, dedicated to nurturing talented fighters. Chad's role in the film showcases the business side of MMA and the logistics involved in organizing and promoting fights.

Jere' Folley Chaisson, a promising young MMA fighter, is a man filled with raw untamed ambition. The film documents Folley's intense training regime and sheer dedication as he strives to rise from being an amateur to a professional fighter. He is constantly pushing himself, mind, and body to its limits, grounding himself in the belief that to succeed in the sports industry, one needs to follow the mantra – "Either you are a fighter, or you're not."

Tim Credeur, a well-established UFC veteran, personifies the heart and soul of the game. Credeur is showcased not just as a fighter but also as a pragmatic and knowledgeable coach who uses his extensive experience to train young, potential MMA fighters. He runs the Gladiator's Academy in Lafayette, which has contributed significantly to the regional MMA scene, grooming fighters who not only possess physical strength but also the mental toughness to tackle the sport's grueling challenges.

Fightville presents the MMA universe far removed from the glitz and glamour we usually associate with such sports. It takes us on an edifying journey into Louisiana's gritty regional MMA scene, showcasing intimate, behind-the-scenes footages. Here, we see fighters not only battling it out in the highly competitive platform under the bright ring lights but also in their daily practice sessions.

Through the characters, we witness the daily grind they have to go through, as they demonstrate extraordinary discipline, dedication, and determination. Every meal, every workout, and every sparring session is meticulously planned and executed, embodying the saying that "Championships are won in the gym."

Fightville also provides insights into the psychological aspects of this sport as the fighters discuss their fears, motivations, and the adrenaline rush experienced during fights. The documentary features interviews with the film's main characters, as well as family members, partners, and fellow fighters, all contributing to an all-encompassing view of the arduous journey these fighters undertake.

Fightville is not simply about MMA; the documentary, at its core, is a universal story about striving for personal and professional advancement and braving adversities in pursuit of individual goals. The narrative of Fightville seeks to express that MMA is not a barbaric contest but a legitimate, disciplined sport with fighters who have dedication, conviction, and dreams alike any other professional athletes.

The film is directed by the noted filmmakers Petra Epperlein and Michael Tucker, whose previous works like "Gunner Palace" and "How to Fold a Flag" portrayed the Iraq war's grittier aspects. They bring the same rawness and authenticity to Fightville, making it an immersive experience for the audience.

Fightville plunges headfirst into the raw world of MMA, providing an honest and unflinching portrayal of a sport burgeoning in popularity. Whether you're an MMA enthusiast, sports fan, or a viewer interested in stories of relentless ambition, Fightville will grip you with its exploration into the intricacies of MMA, proving it to be more than just raw, uncontrolled violence.