Atlantic City

Abstract

Abstract Atlantic City by Jason Frazier April, 2010 Director: Ron Mitchelson DEPARTMENT OF ENGLISH Atlantic City is a screenplay inspired in part by events that took place in Catskill, NY in the early 1980's. The story follows Leon, a young fighter modeled after a teenage Mike Tyson, who is plucked from a juvenile prison and trained to be a champion boxer. However, despite Leon's considerable talent, he also has a dark side, which creates friction between his two trainers, Teddy and Gus. One of the primary themes of this story is integrity, which is a virtue espoused by both Teddy and Gus. However, this principal is challenged by Leon whose potential offers redemption, particularly for Gus, and a second chance at the glory that was taken away from him in the opening scene. As Gus becomes seduced by Leon's talent, he ignores the growing signs of trouble, and his relationship with Teddy begins to deteriorate. Teddy is well aware of the path Leon is heading down and knows that without discipline, he will become a danger to himself and others. He is also concerned with Gus' willingness to sell out his own ideals due to the prospect of fame. Ultimately this conflict escalates to a level which threatens to alter the lives of all three men.