Punch

Set in a coastal town in New Zealand, this drama follows Jim, a seventeen-year-old boxer preparing for a fight that could lead to a professional career. Jim faces significant pressure from his father and coach, Stan, who struggles with alcoholism and views his son's success as a way to escape their small-town environment. Jim's perspective on his future and his sexuality changes after he forms a relationship with Whetu, a gay Māori youth and aspiring musician living in a beach hut.

The film was written and directed by Welby Ings. The cast features Jordan Oosterhof in the lead role of Jim Richardson, with Tim Roth playing his father, Stan, and Conan Hayes as Whetu. Other cast members include Abigail Laurent, Karl Willetts, and Connor Johnston. The production was supported by several companies, including the New Zealand Film Commission and Blueskin Films.

Audience reception for the movie is mixed. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 6.3/10 based on 1,900 votes, while on TMDB, it has a lower score of 5.6/10 from 39 votes.