Antagonist

Character Role Analysis

Frankie Dunn

The biggest obstacle to Frankie's success, be it in the boxing ring or in his personal relationships, is Frankie himself. He blames himself for Scrap's career-ending injury, and he's crusty and guarded as a result. He doesn't like to take chances, and all of this caution comes at a price. The world has passed Frankie by, and his reticence has cost him fighters, like Big Willie. Then there's his guilt over what went down between him and his estranged daughter. That shame-nugget almost ends his relationship with Maggie before it begins. Frankie's built a monstrous emotional fortress around him, and caution and guilt are its cornerstones.

It's a wonder the only time we see him throwing punches is when he's shadowboxing (i.e. fighting with himself).