MOVIE GEEK: 4 buckets
FILM FREAK: 4 buckets
MOVIE GEEK'S REVIEW:
I don't care for wrestling at all.
Still, "The Wrestler" is one of the best films of 2008, and Mickey Rourke is my
pick for Best Actor. This is surprising, because the guy hasn't done anything
unworthy -- ever.
This film is about a retired professional wrestler named Randy "The Ram"
Robinson who jumps back into the squared ring to climb up the
independent-circuit ladder.
This is a very simple film that is totally engaging and heartbreaking to watch.
"The Ram" is a complicated loser who just can't get his act together.
Between trying to woo a stripper (played by Marisa Tomei) or trying to mend his
broken relationship with his daughter (played by Evan Rachel Wood), Randy's life
is a constant struggle.
During the week, he works at the local deli, struggling to get any hours he can,
while on the weekend, he "sits on other guys' faces."
While this movie plays like a familiar story of the poor loser, the wrestling
aspect gives it a breath of fresh life.
Directed by Darren Aronofsky (from "Requiem for a Dream" fame), "The Wrestler"
holds two of the best performances of the year in Rourke and Wood.
Their scenes together are riveting and emotional, and display some of the best
character work of the past year.
The wrestling scenes are just as brutal as the emotional scenes, and compliment
the film nicely.
Non-wrestling fans and pro wrestling fans alike will find much to enjoy when
they take in a viewing of this film.
Four buckets.
FILM FREAK'S REVIEW:
Aging ring legend Randy "The Ram" Robinson's life is quite shallow compared to
what it used to be.
At one time he was a local fan favorite at the top of his game. Because of his
passion for a career in the wrestling entertainment field, it takes a toll on
his family as well as his health.
He is aware that he needs to do the right thing and retire, but he cannot help
but answer his calling to the ring with a blatant disregard of the doctor's
orders.
I saw this movie for two reasons. One reason is because I am an avid wrestling
fan.
The second reason is because I really wanted to see Mickey Rourke in a starring
role again.
The years have not been kind to Rourke.
He appears to be in great shape for this movie but I think only Michael Jackson
has had more plastic surgery.
Surprisingly, this role works great for Rourke. He shows viewers the life of a
local celebrity and how he struggles with his career in decline and the
possibility of dying alone.
Enter Cassidy (Marissa Tomei) who gives a terrific performance as a stripper who
is quite fond of Randy although she is quite hesitant to see him as anything
more than a strip club patron.
Amazing little film. I believe that Rourke will be in serious contention for
Best Actor for his role in "The Wrestler."
Four buckets.
