Undercard movie review by Movie Review Mom! |

MOVIE TITLE: Undercard

This emotional boxing drama hits theaters February 27, 2026.

RATING: PG-13 (drama intensity, thematic elements)

LENGTH: 1 hour 46 minutes

Movie Review Mom GRADE: A-

FEATURED PRODUCT related to the movie:

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IN A NUTSHELL:

Undercard is a heartfelt sports drama that marks a surprising yet impressive dramatic turn for comedian Wanda Sykes, playing a former boxing champion trying to reconnect with the son she once abandoned. What unfolds is as much about family reconciliation and emotional redemption as it is about boxing, a compelling tale of second chances inside and outside the ring.

When Cheryl “No Mercy” Stewart, a two-time former boxing champion and recovering alcoholic, reaches out to the 21-year-old son she abandoned, she is met with deep-seated resentment. Keith Stewart, a naturally gifted fighter, relies on raw talent, but without discipline or focus, he can’t reach the top. After a devastating loss caused by his gambling-addicted trainer, Keith’s career loses direction, and his confidence takes a hit. Cheryl sees a chance not only to save her son’s career, but to reclaim the family she lost. With everything on the line, mother and son enter an uneasy partnership, balancing ambition, forgiveness, and the price of a second chance.

The film was directed by Tamika Miller, who also co-wrote it with Anita M. Cal. Already, the film has won:

** Audience Award for Best U.S. Narrative Feature – Newport Beach Film Festival

** Audience Award for Best Independent Film – St. Louis International Film Festival

TIPS FOR PARENTS:

A lot of profanity, including F-bombs
Talk of alcoholism and addiction recovery
Strained family relationships
Lesbians go on a date and kiss.
Boxing sequences with some physicality and drama.
Nothing graphic, but it’s aimed more at teens and adults than younger kids.

THEMES:

Redemption and second chances
Healing fractured relationships
Discipline vs. raw talent
Forgiveness and family commitment
The emotional cost of ambition

THINGS I LIKED:

This is Wanda Sykes’ first dramatic performance! She did a great job and even took boxing lessons for this role. She’s compelling in a role very different from her usual comedic work.
The rest of the cast is also fantastic and includes Roselyn Sanchez, Xavier Mills, William Stanford Davis, Berto Colon, Bentley Green, Danny Pardo, Javen Lewis, and adorable Estella Kahiha.
The mother-son dynamic gives the film weight and depth.
The realistic boxing scenes feel authentic and grounded.
The movie portrays the grit of living in the poor streets of the city.
The film has a true underdog spirit. It balances tough personal issues with genuine hope.
The movie was filmed near the beaches in Miami, Florida. Nice!

THINGS I DIDN’T LIKE:

Some plot points feel familiar and predictable in the sports genre…except one that will surprise you!
A few supporting characters aren’t deeply developed.
The pacing dips slightly in Act 2.

FUNNY LINES:

“Raincheck?” – Cheryl/No Mercy (Wanda Sykes) “As long as the check don’t bounce.” – (Roselyn Sanchez)

INTERESTING LINES:

“Nothing makes a statement like sobriety.” – No Mercy (Wanda Sykes)
“Sobriety brings clarity.” – Anita (Arischa Conner)
“Everything I ever wanted is right here, right now.” – No Mercy (Wanda Sykes)

MOVIES LIKE THIS YOU ALSO MIGHT LIKE:

Rocky — Classic underdog boxing drama: https://amzn.to/3OTzUkf
Million Dollar Baby — Emotional boxing story with heart: https://amzn.to/4qLCA0E
Creed — Sports drama interwoven with legacy and family: https://moviereviewmom.com/creed-packs-a-punch-for-fans/