A Fine Character study and representation of the pro-wrestler's life.

Rating: 7/10 (3 October 2009)

As a huge wrestling fan you only have to look at the acclaim given to 'The Wrestler' by not only the wrestlers themselves (such as Ric Flair and Bret Hart) but also many, many wrestling fans, to know that this is a wonderful and heartfelt tribute to the world of pro-wrestling, particularly those that work their backsides off on the indy scene. Mickey Rourke delivers a fine performance, both in and out of the ring, and carries the film on his shoulders, much as Sly Stallone does in the original 'Rocky'. The wrestling itself is excellently done, and the supporting cast all play their roles well.
If the acting and the in-ring action is superb, its a shame that the rest of the movie doesn't quite live up to that standard. The plot meanders along following 'The Ram's' retirement, and Randy's attempts to reconcile with his daughter and woo his stripper heartache feel a little contrived and forced. The finish, whilst undeniably glorious, is a touch hokey, which is a shame as the film carries itself with an unflinching honesty and seriousness up to this point.
That doesn't take away from the fact that this is a very good film, and a very good performance by Rourke. I think perhaps the superlatives lavished on 'The Wrestler' are slightly over-the-top, but its undisputably a fine film.