Million Dollar Baby Strength and Skill

Hopefully, it doesn't come as a huge shock that strength and skill are central to Million Dollar Baby—what with it being a sports movie and all.

Here's the thing, though: it's not all about physical strength and boxing skills. Honest! In the boxing ring, a ripped physique and a punishing uppercut can only get you so far. Emotional strength, strength of character, discipline, smarts: they're all bundled up in the thematic turnbuckle, too.

Questions About Strength and Skill

1. Is Frankie's caution as a manager a strength or a weakness?
2. According to Frankie, there's only one rule: protect yourself at all times. What are some ways that Frankie, Scrap, and Maggie protect themselves, both in and out of the boxing ring?
3. What do you think finally gives Maggie the strength to tell her mother off?

Chew on This

Maggie's greatest strength is her determination, both inside and outside of the ring.

Frankie was right: sometimes, tough ain't enough.