The Wrestler

Director: Darren Aronofsky
Writer: Robert D. Siegel

By Eric Rosenhek

Before any dissection takes place, it is important to define The Wrestler. First and foremost, it’s not about wrestling. It’s also not a film that gives wrestling a cartoonish feel; so don’t expect the dumb humor shown in other wrestling films like Nacho Libre and Ready to Rumble. Professional wrestling is prominent, but only serves as the backdrop for the film’s protagonist.

The Wrestler is the story of Randy “The Ram” Robinson (Mickey Rourke) – a former superstar from the 1980’s, who is now washed up, broke and a shadow of his former self. After a serious health scare, Robinson is forced to evaluate his existence and becomes determined to correct the many mistakes he has made in his life; most notably, the relationship with his estranged daughter, Stephanie (Evan Rachel Wood).

Many critics and reviewers believe The Wrestler has resurrected Mickey Rourke’s career. However, one can argue that such a “comeback” already occurred after Rourke’s tremendous performances in Domino and Sin City. Regardless, Rourke’s portrayal of The Ram is brilliant and captivating. He flawlessly expresses the struggle his character faces. This is especially felt when Robinson is caught between an industry where he is viewed as a hero and a reality where he’s seen as a guy who doesn’t pay his rent, and can only find (non-wrestling) work behind a shoddy grocery store’s deli counter. This protagonist is certainly not perfect. He makes bad choices and puts a lot of harmful things in his body. However, there is still a sense to root for the character and view him as the underdog. Rourke deserves all the accolades he has received thus far.

In addition, The Wrestler features a solid performance from Marisa Tomei, who plays Cassidy – an exotic dancer who befriends Robinson and provides him with the reason and encouragement he badly needs. Evan Rachel Wood also turns in a strong performance as the bitter and visibly hurt Stephanie.

Director Darren Aronofsky’s decision to use many hand held shots gives the film an appropriate amount of grittiness and provides a strong sense of realism. Aronofsky also presents professional wrestling in a serious and respectable manner, which will please those who follow this particular industry. Those who do not watch wrestling will definitely not become followers of it, and some will still consider wrestling as a form of juvenile entertainment despite the way it is shown in this film.

Furthermore, wrestling fans will enjoy seeing many well-known performers from organizations such as Ring of Honor and Combat Zone Wrestling. Former WCW and WWE star Ernest “The Cat” Miller has a substantial role in the film, playing The Ram’s arch rival, The Ayatollah. Ron Killings, who currently wrestles as “R-Truth” in WWE, also makes a cameo. But of course, The Wrestler isn’t about body slams and leg drops. In fact, there’s a marginal amount of scenes involving actual wrestling.

For that reason, it is important to remember that the main character just happens to be a wrestler. The point of The Wrestler is to witness one man’s struggle with life, which is wonderfully displayed by an actor who has had his significant share of difficulty. The fact that Randy Robinson, as one character puts it, “sits on people’s faces” is irrelevant.