The Wrestler Review

A film about Pro Wrestling, with Mickey Rourke in, and directed by the guy who is going make the new Robocop – GENIUS

Synopsis – Mickey Rourke plays Randy “The Ram” Robinson, a wrestler who was big 20 years ago, but still wrestles to make ends meat! The story follows his life and relationships, after he has a heart attack following a match.

My Reaction – I was blown away by Mickey Rourkes performance, and Darren Aronofskys direction and vision is astounding.

Plot – The whole story hits home with a very scary realism, which just shows how some people can not let go of past fame. Robert D. Siegal’s writing gives a fine balance of story to wrestling matches.

Acting – Where to start!!! Its clear Mickey Rourke completely immersed himself into this role. (It’s been rumoured he wants to go into the WWE!) His physical form and the way he performs whilst wrestling is to professional standard, I’d expect nothing less from a man has had a short boxing career. This dedication is matched with every line he delivers in his day to day life, especially when he tries to patch things up with his daughter.
However, this isn’t just Rourkes film. Marisa Tomei (from Alfie and The Love Guru fame) plays the stripper Cassidy, and interacts with Rourke perfectly. I think she is the perfect contender for some awards. Plus, I’ve got to say, the 44yr old looks stunning whilst stripping!

Cinematography / FX – Brilliant throughout. Aronfsky’s use of close up camera shots during the wrestling matches almost make you feel every hit or body slam. From an FX perspective, at one point during the film you see the after effects of a ‘hardcore’ match, with glass, staples and tacs being removed from Rourkes body. This is either FX trickery, or Rourke received those cuts for real (something I wouldn’t be shocked to hear!).

Direction – Aronofskys best yet in my opinion. He has managed to bring the already talented Rourke into another Oscar worthy role.

Best Bit – During the aforementioned ‘Hardcore’ match, a member of the crowd give The Ram his fake leg to use as a weapon, which makes the crowds chant “USE HIS LEG, USE HIS LEG”. After a quick beating with the prosthetic limb, the crowd start a new chant of “HOLY SH*T, HOLY S*IT”.

To Sum Up – Amazing lead and supporting actor performances, clever direction and pro wrestling, a must see for everyone.

Score – My highest yet, 9.2 Thumbs up out of 10.