The Wrestler: DVD Review

The Wrestler: DVD Review

The Wrestler
Cast: Mickey Rourke, Marisa Tomei, Evan Rachel Wood
Rating: M
Released by Roadshow Entertainment
At a time when the fighting world is all about the comeback of David Tua (link to sports), it's no wonder everyone's got return to form in mind when they talk about Mickey Rourke in the Wrestler.
He stars as fading 80s wrestler, Randy "The Ram" Robinson who believes in making every fight real (even going as far as to cut himself to shed blood in the ring).
However, in the aftermath of a fight, The Ram collapses and ends up in hospital, with a stark warning to make some changes - or face life alone and headed for the grave.
So The Ram tries to make amends with his daughter (Evan Rachel Wood) whom he abandoned during the excessive days of his fighting career - and even tries to convince ageing stripper Cassidy (Marisa Tomei) to try and make a go of a relationship.
But can The Ram change who - and what - he is before it's too late?
It's trite to say that this is Mickey Rourke's finest performance; the depth and aching emotional rawness he brings to the role shows why he was always the first choice.
And in director Darren Aronofsky's film, it's not as if Rourke is painted in a brilliant light - with his long blonde trestles and bloated puffer fish face, he doesn't exactly look like a star.
However, it's Rourke's performance which anchors the film as Aronofsky examines a life gone wrong and the implications of wrong decisions during a lifetime.
Granted you know the Ram isn't exactly heading for an easy path of redemption - and much like Rourke himself, there are a lot of parallels between the actor and character.
Extras are a bit lacking for the film with a behind the scenes doco and an interview with Rourke himself - but quite frankly, after you sit through this film, you may find it difficult to fight back the tears as it knocks you to the ground and subdues you as it delivers the killer emotional punch.

Rating: 8/10