Come Out Fighting

Come Out Fighting (2016)

 is an indie drama directed by Eric Weston and written by Joe Ricci, who also stars in the lead role. Released on March 3, 2016 in the United States, this gritty, 100‑minute film explores bare‑knuckle fighting, love, and redemption within working‑class America 

Set in a tough neighbourhood, Jazz (Joe Ricci) is a bare‑knuckle fighter struggling to break free from a cycle of violence and poverty. He confronts daily brutality in underground rings, but dreams of escaping his dark past 
 His life takes a turn when he meets Gia, a lonely woman burdened by family troubles—especially her wayward brother, “Fast Buck” Freddie, who is fixated on getting rich quick 

Jazz and Gia form an unexpected connection, offering each other a sliver of hope and emotional safety. As their bond grows, Freddie involves Jazz in a desperate con, hoping the fighter’s raw talent can solve their problems. The situation quickly escalates, forcing Jazz to defend not only his own life but also Gia’s trust 
Their love is tested amid fists, survival instincts, and moral crossroads.

Joe Ricci anchors the story with a vulnerable, heartfelt performance as Jazz. He convincingly embodies a man torn between rage and redemption—using only grit and charisma to carry much of the narrative himself 
Jazz’s emotional journey is the emotional core of the film.

The chemistry between Jazz and Gia is compelling, providing much-needed emotional grounding. Freddie, portrayed as a reckless wildcard, adds comic relief and tension. Supporting ensemble members reinforce the authenticity of Jazz’s world, adding texture and cultural context .

The film’s low-budget roots are evident, but its direction delivers a surprisingly polished feel for an indie project. Weston and Ricci crafted a rugged aesthetic: fights are intense but never stylized, while city streets and hidden backrooms reflect genuine environments 
With a modest estimated budget of $65,000, the production showcases ingenuity in its gritty cinematography and location choices 

Pragmatic storytelling drives the pace—Rocky‑style training, emotional scenes, and dramatic confrontations underpin Jazz’s hopes for a better life. The film’s one‑of‑a‑kind corners, underground bouts, and authentic locales give it a lived‑in charm .

Reviews for Come Out Fighting are polarizing. On IMDb, it holds a solid 7.7/10 from over 1,000 votes 
 Some viewers praise its “heart” and authentic indie spirit—one reviewer said:

“A great film from beginning to end... it was sincere and heartfelt… storylines inside stories… brings you close to the world of bare knuckle fighting” 

Others were less impressed, citing weak acting, corny fight sequences, and rough production values—one critic remarked:

“The acting is horrible and corny… scripted like early ’90s” 

Overall, fans of minimalist, character-driven indie films find Come Out Fighting a heartfelt underdog story; mainstream viewers may find its rough edges too prominent.

At its core, Come Out Fighting depicts redemption through connection and self-discovery. Jazz’s path from underground violence to emotional growth highlights bonds forged under hardship. The film also explores family dynamics—Gia’s struggle with her brother’s recklessness underscores themes of loyalty, trust, and transformation.

Come Out Fighting is a raw, low-budget indie drama that leans on performance and sincerity over polish. Joe Ricci shines as a conflicted fighter seeking meaning beyond survival. Narratively muscular yet imperfect in craft, it offers unexpected emotional weight and a relatable journey of self‑worth. If you're open to gritty, heartfelt underdog narratives outside mainstream fare, Come Out Fighting may surprise and move you.