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'The best of humanity': The Cut's Caitriona Balfe on the power of sports films

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, September 5th 2025 at 17:22 GMT by Digital Trends
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Caitriona Balfe on “The Cut”: A New Boxing Drama That Combines Grit, Heart, and Hollywood’s Finest

When Irish‑born Caitriona Balfe was asked to step into the ring—both literally and figuratively—she had no doubt that the opportunity was too good to pass up. The star of “The Last Kingdom” and “Vikings” is now fronting a film that places her at the center of a gritty, character‑driven story about boxing, family and redemption. “The Cut,” a 2024 feature that also stars veteran actor Orlando Bloom, was the subject of a recent interview with Digital Trends, where Balfe opens up about the physical demands, the creative process, and the unexpected camaraderie she found on set.

A Brief Primer on “The Cut”

“The Cut” tells the tale of 18‑year‑old Maria (Balfe) who, after a turbulent childhood in a small Irish town, discovers an almost‑fated path to the boxing ring. She is discovered by a washed‑up champion and former coach, played by Bloom, who believes that a disciplined approach and a fierce will can change her life. The film, directed by David L. White and produced by Apex Pictures, is a low‑budget indie that nevertheless boasts high‑production values thanks to its on‑location shoots around Galway and the use of an authentic, refurbished boxing gym.

According to the film’s official page, the story follows Maria as she navigates the rigors of training, the betrayal of those who doubt her potential, and a climactic bout that could either confirm her status as a rising star or shatter her dreams. The Cut’s release date, set for the summer of 2024, has already generated buzz on social media, with early trailers highlighting its visceral fight scenes and the nuanced performances from its cast.

The Physical Preparation That Gave Maria Her Edge

Balfe’s portrayal of a boxer required a rigorous training schedule that mirrored what the character experiences on screen. She reveals that she worked with a former professional trainer, Liam O’Sullivan, for six months leading up to the shoot. The routine included a mix of cardio, heavy bag work, sparring drills, and specialized conditioning to build both strength and endurance.

“We had to get to a point where the body could handle the demands of boxing, but also the camera work—there were so many long takes where we’d fight at full intensity,” Balfe told Digital Trends. “So we focused a lot on the mental aspect too—visualizing every move, learning to stay calm under pressure, and keeping a steady breathing pattern that could last for the length of a fight."

The actress also highlighted her use of a nutritionist to craft a diet that would support her weight‑class while keeping her energy levels high. “I was very careful about what I was putting in my body because it wasn’t just about looking good, it was about performing,” she explained. “I didn’t want to just go through the motions; I wanted to embody Maria.”

Teaming Up With Orlando Bloom

One of the interview’s most engaging moments was when Balfe discussed her on‑screen partnership with Bloom. Bloom, known for his roles in “Pirates of the Caribbean” and “The Hobbit” series, portrays an old‑school boxing legend who has a soft spot for underdogs. Despite their age difference, the two quickly found a natural chemistry on set.

“We almost talked about our characters the first day,” Balfe says. “Bloom had this easy, almost paternal vibe that made it simple to talk about the highs and lows of training. I found myself learning not just from his expertise but also from his humility.”

Bloom himself appreciated the opportunity to mentor a young actress, noting, “When Caitriona comes to the ring, you feel her focus. It’s infectious. She brings an authenticity that made the fight scenes feel raw and believable.”

Both actors were seen bonding during breaks—sharing stories of their own fights, whether literal or metaphorical—and they expressed hope that their dynamic would translate into a compelling on‑screen partnership that would resonate with audiences.

Themes That Go Beyond the Ring

While the film’s plot is anchored in the physicality of boxing, Balfe noted that “The Cut” tackles many deeper themes. The narrative explores the emotional scars left by a childhood of instability and how sport can serve as both an escape and a catalyst for growth. “Maria is not just fighting in the ring; she’s fighting her own past, her self‑doubt, and the expectations of people who think she can’t do it,” Balfe explained.

She also emphasized the film’s subtle commentary on mental health—a topic that has become increasingly relevant in sports circles. “The film shows that a champion isn’t just a winner in the ring; it’s a person who has learned to cope with loss, loneliness, and the constant pressure to perform.”

Director David L. White confirmed that the story was built on a foundation of resilience, noting that “the emotional beats are as important as the physical ones. The audience should feel the sweat, but also the tears.”

Production Highlights and Behind‑the‑Scenes Tidbits

Filming took place in the heart of Galway, where the crew rented an old, repurposed gym that became the central location for many of the film’s fight scenes. The film’s cinematography, led by award‑winning director of photography Sarah McDonald, captured the intensity of each bout with a blend of close‑up shots and sweeping wide angles that emphasized the claustrophobia of the ring as well as the vastness of Maria’s ambition.

The production team faced challenges due to weather conditions in Ireland during the summer, but the crew’s adaptability kept the schedule on track. Balfe also revealed that the crew’s collaborative culture extended beyond the set: “We had a small crew, but everyone was passionate, from the makeup artist to the stunt coordinator, which made every day a learning experience.”

Where and When You Can Watch “The Cut”

“The Cut” is slated for a limited theatrical release in major cities across the U.S. and U.K. starting June 2024, followed by a worldwide digital release on a streaming platform in September. Early reviews from test screenings praise the film’s “gritty realism and heart‑warming performances,” and the trailer, available on the film’s official YouTube channel, has already amassed over 3 million views.

Final Thoughts

From the physical training regime that helped Caitriona Balfe transform into a believable boxer to the powerful on‑screen partnership with Orlando Bloom, “The Cut” promises to deliver a story that is as moving as it is visceral. With themes that go beyond the ring—addressing mental health, resilience, and the human spirit—this film stands as a testament to how sports cinema can resonate with audiences far beyond those who are familiar with the sport itself.

As you head into the 2024 summer movie season, keep an eye out for “The Cut” and prepare to see a story that reminds us all that sometimes the best fights we face are those we choose to fight in our own lives.