The Set-Up

The Set-Up, a cinematic classic released in 1949, marks a turning point in the genre of fight films by subverting the conventional narrative of the underdog hero overcoming incredible odds to claim the championship title. Instead, the film focuses on the darker aspects of the sport, shedding light on the cutthroat world of boxing management and the often-forgotten sacrifices made by those in the lower echelons of the athletic world. The story revolves around Nick Maryson, played by Robert Ryan, a worn-out and struggling boxing manager who sees his prizefighter, 'Gentleman Jim' Dugan, as his ticket to financial security and a better life for himself and his family. Nick's fighter, however, is about to face the formidable champion, Tito Monero, a ruthless and cunning boxer who has an unsettling tendency to knock out his opponents with deadly efficiency. While Nick's faith in his fighter's ability is wavering, he continues to believe that he has what it takes to defeat Monero and claim the championship belt. What Nick fails to disclose to his fighter is that he has been receiving regular payments from a bookmaker, Stoker, ensuring that the outcome of the fight remains predictable. The arrangement is mutually beneficial; Stoker gets a guaranteed win, while Nick and his fighter reap the profits. However, as the day of the big fight approaches, Jim Dugan begins to experience unsettling doubts and fears, all of which are magnified by the knowledge that his own manager is in cahoots with the betting syndicate. The once-convincing fighter now starts to question the legitimacy of the sport, his own abilities, and the man he trusts implicitly to guide him through the grueling world of professional boxing. Meanwhile, tensions rise as Jim confronts Nick about the suspicious dealings surrounding the fight. Nick, well-aware of the potential damage to his reputation and his relationships with his fighter and family, tries to placate Jim by downplaying the significance of the situation and reassuring him that he's just doing what it takes to ensure his future and the well-being of those he cares about. The pivotal scene of the film takes place during a pre-fight dinner at a local restaurant where Jim, now acutely aware of the truth, becomes increasingly frustrated and disillusioned with the system. He openly confronts Nick, demanding to know why he was not informed about the bribe. Nick, still determined to hold on to the status quo and avoid any confrontation that might damage his professional reputation, attempts to deflect Jim's questions. Despite the mounting anxiety and inner turmoil, Dugan's emotional turmoil becomes evident when his inner voice screams for a change, compelling him to take a drastic action – refuse to go through with the fight. However, he knows that turning back now would jeopardize his own livelihood, as well as the trust of those around him. As the day of the bout finally arrives, Jim Dugan walks into the arena, still grappling with his own guilt and uncertainty about the legitimacy of the sport he has chosen. Despite his doubts, the fight commences, with Monero landing the first decisive blow. However, what unfolds next marks the dramatic climax of the film. In a stunning twist, Jack 'Buck' Harris, a sports reporter from the local newspaper, arrives at the boxing match and inadvertently provides a ray of hope for Jim as he exposes the corrupt practices of Stoker, Nick, and their cohorts to his readers. As news of the expose spreads like wildfire, the corrupt bookmakers frantically attempt to contain the fallout and salvage their interests, while Dugan finds himself unexpectedly empowered to walk away from the compromised fight. In a heart-wrenching denouement, Jim Dugan abandons his ill-fated fight with Monero, leaving behind a shattered life's ambition and an uncertain future. The once-convincing underdog has now emerged as the most courageous and morally resolute fighter in the entire stable – a testament to the enduring human spirit, which remains indomitable even in the face of adversity. As the curtains close on the final act of 'The Set-Up,' the film offers a poignant portrayal of the sacrifices made in pursuit of sports stardom and the often-tarnished ideals of those at the pinnacle of the boxing world.