UNTOLD: Deal with the Devil

UNTOLD: Deal with the Devil is a gripping and searing documentary from 2021 that forms an integral part of Netflix's sports docuseries 'UNTOLD'. This biographical documentary primarily focuses on the life of Christy Martin, a female boxing champion who broke through the male-dominated sport in the 80s and 90s to become a veritable superstar.

Directed by Laura Brownson and produced by Ryan Duffy, 'UNTOLD: Deal with the Devil' is a raw and unfiltered look into Martin's life journey - her trials, tribulations, and her relentless pursuit to rise above the societal conventions of her time.

Martin's life and career act as the overarching narrative of this documentary. As one of the foremost women's boxing champions, she was hailed as 'The Coal Miner's Daughter' and was known for her fierce fighting style and indomitable spirit. Martin fought tirelessly, not just in the boxing ring but also to challenge societal norms and stereotypes. Underneath all the glamour of billed fights and television exposure, however, Martin quietly suffered in an abusive marriage. The documentary covers all these aspects, delving deep into the boxer's rollercoaster life.

Her on-screen interaction with her estranged trainer and then-husband, Jim Martin, is an essential part of the narrative. The dynamic of their abusive and turbulent relationship, combined with the fight for glory in the roped square, brings a level of intense drama to the fore.

Throughout the film, viewers witness Martin’s raw and personal journey involving harrowing experiences and intense struggles, as well as her personal and professional growth across a career that spanned three decades. This powerful story is articulated brilliantly through the presence of the champion herself, who offers direct personal accounts and emotional recollections of her trials and tribulations.

Apart from focusing on Christy Martin, 'UNTOLD: Deal with the Devil' also paints a broader picture of the female boxing scene during Martin's era. It encapsulates her battle against deep-seated sexism in a male-dominated sporting arena, which adds an enlightening socio-cultural dimension to the narrative.

'UNTOLD: Deal with the Devil' also features interviews with Joyce Salters and Johnny Salters. Their perspectives, along with other supporting characters, lend different viewpoints and layers to Martin's life story. His trainer, her family, colleagues, friends, and adversaries all get a voice in the documentary, providing a multi-faceted view of the boxing legend's life.

The filmmaking style of the documentary is raw, visceral, and truly evocative. Directors Laura Brownson and co-producer Ryan Duffy showcase powerful storytelling using high-quality archival footage, re-enactments, and captivating interviews. The cinematography and music score further intensify the narrative, contributing to the documentary’s compelling ambience.

'UNTOLD: Deal with the Devil' is an enlightening and profound exploration of not just a sportswoman's life, but also her courage and resilience, the transformation of women's boxing, and societal paradigms. It presents an intimate and affecting portrait of a woman who faced adversity head-on and redefined herself along her journey.

The riveting narrative scales the life and times of Christy Martin, delivering a layered and empowering piece of storytelling that extends beyond boxing. The documentary largely revolves around Martin’s tumultuous journey, making it an intriguing watch for fans of sports documentaries or anyone interested in unique, transformative life stories.

In conclusion, 'UNTOLD: Deal with the Devil' is a poignant exploration of Christy Martin's relentless pursuit of glory and stardom, amplified by deep personal turmoil hidden beneath her public persona. It's a journey that oscillates between pain, struggle, resilience, and triumph - a heart-wrenching but deeply inspirational tale for viewers who appreciate the power of human spirit against all odds.