Sydney Sweeney is venturing into new realms of her career with her latest role. Known for her performances in Euphoria and Anyone But You, she made a significant appearance at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), shortly after the controversy surrounding her American Eagle campaign. At TIFF, her new film Christy took center stage, a hard-hitting biopic about ’90s boxing legend Christy Martin, famously called “the Coal Miner’s Daughter.” The premiere was met with enthusiastic applause and critical acclaim, with some suggesting awards season potential.
Sweeney underwent a dramatic transformation for the role. Previously recognized for romantic and dramatic roles, she gained over 30 pounds, trained extensively, and opted not to use stunt doubles. “I was getting pummeled,” Sweeney told Variety, sharing that she suffered concussions, black eyes, and bruises during filming. “There was always an ice bucket ready. I got knocked around a lot and had some intense bruises.”
One of the toughest scenes was recreating Christy Martin’s famous fight with Laila Ali, which resulted in a severe black eye for Sweeney. Committed to authenticity, she trained late into the night following long shooting days. “It was exhausting,” she remarked, “but I wanted the fights to feel genuine because Christy’s story is so powerful.”
Gaining weight was a task in itself. With guidance from a nutritionist, weight trainer, and boxing coach, Sweeney consumed high-calorie meals, protein shakes, and what she termed a “PB&J diet.” “We increased my calorie intake… I ate a lot of Smuckers, PB&J sandwiches, milkshakes, constantly eating,” she explained. “I was burning it all off, so maintaining it was a challenge.”
Directed by David Michôd (Animal Kingdom, The King), Christy explores beyond boxing. It delves into Martin’s turbulent personal life, including her abusive marriage to trainer Jim Martin (played by Ben Foster). Based on the Netflix documentary Untold: Deal with the Devil, the screenplay by Michôd and Mirrah Foulkes combines sports achievements with the harsh realities Christy faced outside the ring.
Adding to the authenticity, Christy Martin frequently visited the set, cheering during fight scenes and offering support as if she were in her own corner.
Initial feedback from TIFF indicates that Christy could be a pivotal moment in Sweeney’s career. Already a two-time Emmy nominee for Euphoria and The White Lotus, she is now being discussed as a potential Oscar contender. Critics lauded her commitment, transformation, and raw performance, deeming it her most daring work to date.
