Hugh Jackman is known for starring in some unusual films, and next month, one of his most over-the-top and entertaining movies will be available to stream for free. While he recently balanced out Ryan Reynolds’ energy in Deadpool & Wolverine and is preparing for the comedy The Sheep Detectives, it’s Real Steel that truly lets Jackman embrace the ridiculous. The film manages to be both completely absurd and surprisingly like a serious sports movie, with the whole cast playing along with both sides of that idea. Get ready to watch robots battle it out – for free!
Starting February 1st, you’ll be able to watch Real Steel on Tubi, a free streaming service. Like other titles on Tubi, it will likely be available to watch without cost for about a month. Released in 2011, Real Steel marked the first time Hugh Jackman worked with director Shawn Levy, who is now known for Deadpool & Wolverine. Jackman plays Charlie Kenton, an ex-boxer who finds himself in the unusual world of robot boxing. Here’s what the movie is about:
Charlie Kenton was once a promising boxer, but his career ended when robot fighters became the dominant force in the sport. Now he scrapes by as a promoter, building cheap robots for underground fights. When things get desperate, Charlie hesitantly joins forces with his son, Max, to create a competitive robot, hoping for one last chance to prove himself.
It’s easy to get caught up in the impressive robot fights in Real Steel, but the movie also features a talented cast. In addition to Hugh Jackman, the film stars Evangeline Lilly, Anthony Mackie, Kevin Durand, and John Gatins.
‘Real Steel’ Is Based on a Legendary Sci-Fi Writer’s Short Story
Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
It’s easy to get caught up in the strong performances by the actors in Real Steel, but the movie isn’t an entirely new idea. While John Gatins and Dan Gilroy wrote the script, the story itself comes from a short story called “Steel” by Richard Matheson, who also wrote I Am Legend and The Shrinking Man.
Richard Matheson’s story centers on a down-on-his-luck ex-boxer who manages a dilapidated robot fighter, hoping to earn money from its next match. Shawn Levy’s film adaptation certainly added a touch of Hollywood polish to the story’s rough edges.
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While Real Steel isn’t likely to win any awards, it’s a surprisingly popular movie. It has a 60% rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes, but audiences seem to love it more, giving it a 73% score. Some people enjoy it as a lighthearted and predictable film – one viewer called it “corny but fun.” Others have found more to appreciate in the story of robot boxing, seeing it as something more meaningful.
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Real Steel is a really enjoyable film. What especially resonated were the strong connections between the characters and the heartwarming message. It’s a reminder that trying your best and showing courage and kindness are more important than simply winning. It’s a film I’m grateful for.
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2026-01-25 00:33