You might think that a movie about a washed-up boxer going through tough times is about as thrilling as stepping into the ring against a heavyweight champ. Especially when it goes by the somewhat downbeat name of 'Salvable'. You may be surprised! A fresh take on a familiar theme, co-directors Bjorn Franklin and Johnny Marchetta's debut effort happens to pack a more potent punch than its synopsis lets on. Lots to do with Franklin's understated script and impressive performances which surprise you with the emotional depth they pack.

Picture this - a raw, realistic drama reminiscing Britain's early '60s cinema. The setting is Wales and the tale centers on Sal (played by Toby Kebbell, the real champ here despite Shia LaBeouf getting the spotlight in promotional campaigns). Sal, once a boxing ace, now finds solace in the quiet corners of a nursing home where he spends his daylight hours working. He still trains under the eyes of his former coach Welly (James Cosmo), when the day turns into night, making it hard not to appreciate his fighting spirit soaring against all odds.

Stuck in a defunct trailer and maintaining a strained relationship with his cross teenage girl Molly (Kila Lord Cassidy), although separated, Sal finds comfort in the arms of his girlfriend inside his car. Sal's strained bond with Molly, a result of his past negligence, becomes increasingly complicated when his ex (Elaine Cassidy) resists his efforts to see his daughter, and his legal attempts to get custody fail.

Movies of this nature often feature a bad influence, this one is no different with Sal’s old troublemaker buddy, Vince (LaBeouf) keen on stirring up the past. Fresh out of jail with hair as light as his morals, Vince brings Sal back into the illegal fighting circuit to make a quick buck. Sal's refusal to cripple an obviously weaker opponent does not sit well with Vince. “I’d have killed him!” Sal replies to a disapproving Vince.

Sal gives boxing another shot when he teams up with Welly for "one last dance" as Welly puts it. But he rejects a scheduled match to join Vince in a reckless criminal dare that comes with heavy consequences. The plot might seem usual fare, but thanks to its sharp writing, it transcends predictability and weaves a gripping narrative. There's more to Sal's relationship with his daughter than meets the eye and Vince, often in the villain role, showcases a deep fondness for Sal, signified by a huge sacrifice. LaBeouf gives a riveting performance, an impressive change from his regular, scandal-filled headlines.

Credit due for giving Salvable its soul and substance to Kebbell, best remembered for his roles in Control, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes and Kong: Skull Island. Steering clear of dramatic melodrama, his portrayal of Sal draws you right into the heart of this deeply flawed, yet lovable character. The careful capturing of the Welsh backdrop, combined with Kebbell's skillful performance, gives this movie a redeeming luster that well, makes it more than just "salvable".