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The film "Cornered" documenting a boxer’s despairing journey as a result of his apparent involvement in one of sports’ darkest hours, has been selected from thousands of applicants to be showcased at this year’s 29th Annual IFP Marketplace – scheduled for September 16th through 21st in New York City.
For the first time ever, "Cornered" reveals the real story behind the infamous Resto-Collins scandal – a boxing match turned 30-minute criminal assault. The film uncovers new information about the fight, picks up with the reeling lives of those still affected 24 years later, and ultimately produces an unexpected twist.
Cornered chronicles the life of boxer Luis Resto, who in 1983, had seemingly fulfilled a fighter’s ultimate dream by upsetting the previously undefeated Billy Collins Jr. in front of a capacity crowd at Madison Square Garden. Resto’s post-fight victory celebration proved fleeting however amongst allegations that padding had previously been removed from his gloves – vilifying his reputation and sending the brutally-beaten Collins into a tragic downward spiral.
The film’s director, Eric Drath, first met the Puerto Rican-born Resto seven years ago in a rundown gym in the Bronx. Working as a boxing agent at the time, Drath perceived Resto as taciturn and humble.
“The glaring contradiction I saw between Resto’s quiet, restrained character and the premeditated violence of his convicted crime lay on my mind. For years, I have researched his court case and developed a relationship with him and his family. I hope to uncover the disparity between what really happened and the account presented to the jury that found him guilty. This documentary is a personal account of my pursuit to find justice; to delve into, and understand the issues that haunt this unassuming man,” stated Drath.
Cornered is produced and directed by Eric Drath, edited by EMMY Award winner, Aaron Lubarsky (HBO’s Journey’s with George). Also involved in the making of this film; Jenna Rosher (Academy Award nominated Jesus Camps).
To see a 90-second trailer of the film, go to: www.youtube.com/ericdrath
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