Day of the Fight

Plot Summary

Stanley Kubrick’s debut documentary, following Irish-American middleweight boxer Walter Cartier on April 17, 1950—the day of his bout with Bobby James. The film traces Cartier’s quiet morning rituals, training, and anxious hours before the match, culminating in his swift victory that night in Newark. Opening with a brief history of boxing, Kubrick’s tightly crafted short captures the discipline, isolation, and tension behind a fighter’s daily routine.

Top Cast

Vincent Cartier Self, Walter's twin brother and manager

Walter Cartier Self

Nat Fleischer Self, boxing historian

Bobby James Self, Walter's opponent

Judy Singer Self, female fan in crowd (uncredited)