Smash Hit: Race, Crime, and Culture in Boxing Films

Cinema emerged alongside the rules that ushered in boxing's modern age and the "squared circle" proved the ideal stage for cinematic display. The public had its first taste of the new medium in 1894 through a heavyweight bout, recognized today as the world's first feature film.

As the two attractions fast-grew into the country's most popular entertainments, nascent Hollywood studios were quick to spot an opening for a surefire combo. Like a snap-jab to the teeth, the boxing film emerged as ...