Untold: Deal with the Devil (2021)

Overview

"Deal with the Devil," released as part of Netflix's successful sports documentary series "Untold," is a striking documentary that shines a light on the dark and lesser-known corners of the professional boxing world. Released in 2021, this production, like the other episodes in the series, exposes the truths, personal dramas, and ruthless workings of the sports industry that lie behind its glamorous facade. The film focuses on far more than the struggle inside the ring — it delves into the power games, betrayals, and dark deals outside the ring that shape an athlete's career.

The documentary draws viewers into the heart of the events by blending the classic interview format with archival footage, real audio recordings, and testimonies from witnesses of the era. The gripping narrative style that characterizes the "Untold" series as a whole is also on full display here, keeping viewers glued to the screen from start to finish. While striving to tell the story from an impartial perspective, the producers also succeed in maintaining dramatic tension throughout.

The film shows that boxing is not just a physical struggle, but also a complex world where financial interests, personal egos, and sometimes illegal relationships are intertwined. In this respect, the documentary offers content that can appeal not only to sports fans but to anyone interested in the darker sides of human nature.

Plot

"Deal with the Devil" centers on the turning-point events in a boxer's career, examining the power dynamics within the sport and how these dynamics can change an athlete's life. Throughout the film, it explores in detail how the relationships a boxer at the peak of his career formed with the people around him became increasingly complicated, and the unexpected developments that resulted from these relationships.

Through memories recounted by key figures of the era, the documentary succeeds in conveying the atmosphere of that period to the viewer. Themes of management relationships, contracts, loyalty, and betrayal within the boxing world form the main vein of the film. As the narrative progresses chronologically, it takes the viewer on a tension-filled journey, keeping them curious about how events ultimately unfold.

Why Watch It?

This documentary offers valuable content not only for those interested in boxing, but for anyone drawn to real-life stories and fascinated by the complexity of human relationships. Upholding the quality standards of the "Untold" series, this production stands out for its powerful storytelling technique and its narrative supported by authentic sources.

The film offers its audience not just a sports story, but a universal narrative that reveals the weaknesses of human nature in the face of ambition, power, and money. Because stories based on real events carry a different kind of tension and curiosity than fictional films, they affect viewers in a distinct way.

Additionally, the documentary's visual quality, the skillful use of archival footage, and the intimate atmosphere of the interviews greatly enrich the viewing experience. For those curious about the real dynamics within the world of boxing, this film serves as an illuminating source.

Who Is It Suitable For?

This documentary is especially ideal for viewers who are interested in sports documentaries, drawn to real-life stories, and curious about what happens behind the scenes of boxing. Those who enjoyed previous episodes of the "Untold" series will likely enjoy this production just as much.

It also offers a satisfying experience for viewers interested in the commercial and ethical dimensions of the sports industry, and those who enjoy stories involving themes of power dynamics and manipulation. Capable of appealing to a wide audience ranging from young people to adults, the film offers content suitable for a general audience despite containing some heavy dramatic scenes.

Viewers with no interest whatsoever in boxing but who value well-told true stories can also enjoy this documentary, as the film essentially tells a universal human story.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. A gripping and intriguing narrative structure based on real events.

2. Strong documentary storytelling supported by sincere and heartfelt interviews with witnesses of the era.

3. The atmosphere of the period is successfully conveyed thanks to the effective use of archival footage.

Cons:

1. Viewers unfamiliar with boxing or the documentary format may initially feel a lack of context.

2. In some sections, the pacing of the narrative can be seen to slow down in order to heighten dramatic emphasis.

Genre and Tone

"Deal with the Devil" belongs to the sports documentary genre and carries a dramatic, tension-filled tone. The film goes beyond classic documentary storytelling, featuring an editing structure that makes the viewer feel as if they're watching a thriller. Although a serious and solemn atmosphere prevails, emotional moments also stand out thanks to the human dimensions of the story.

The documentary's tone stays true to the reality of events, avoiding sensationalist language. At the same time, elements of tension have been skillfully woven into the film to keep the viewer's interest alive.

Runtime and Viewing Experience

The film has a runtime consistent with the standard format of the "Untold" series, completing in an average feature-length running time. This short and concise structure allows the viewer to focus on the story without losing attention. Since this documentary, which can be watched in one sitting, moves at an intense pace, the viewing experience is smooth and satisfying.

Similar Productions

• Untold: Malice at the Palace (2021)

• Untold: Caitlyn Jenner (2021)

• The Last Dance (2020)

• Icarus (2017)

• Fyre: The Greatest Party That Never Happened (2019)

• Tiger King (2020)

Final Assessment

"Untold: Deal with the Devil" stands out as a gripping and thought-provoking documentary that skillfully exposes the dark truths within the sport of boxing. Appealing to a broad audience beyond just sports fans — including anyone moved by true stories — the production successfully upholds the quality standard of the "Untold" series. With its powerful storytelling technique, authentic interviews, and effective use of archival footage, the documentary offers viewers an experience that is both entertaining and enlightening. It stands out as a must-watch production for anyone curious about what goes on behind the scenes in the world of boxing.