The Wrestler Scores the Pin.

Rating: 10/10 (15 September 2015)

The Wrestler (2008): Dir: Darren Aronofsky / Cast: Mickey Rourke, Marisa Tomei, Evan Rachel Wood, Ernest Miller, Ajay Naidu: An engaging and emotional film about the ongoing struggle between being in the ring in front of thousands of screaming fans, and dealing with health issues and facing the reality of a previous life abandoned. Mickey Rourke plays Randy "the Ram", a one time huge draw who now wrestles for smaller crowds. After a heart attack he attempts to rekindle the broken relationship with his daughter and face normality. Directed by Darren Aronofsky whose masterpiece still remains Requiem for a Dream but his talent is within his visual appeal and range of subjects. Rourke is flawless as someone once great but the dim reality is functioning as his real self. He makes an attempt at family and regular work but the urge to return for a benefit fight burns within him. Marisa Tomei plays a stripper he fancies. She has a child and will predictably attempt a relationship with him but she must cope with the reckless abandonment of the ring. Evan Rachel Wood plays his daughter first disgusted with him but will give him a chance in hopes of no neglect. Ernest Miller plays a famed opponent he will face at the benefit. Ajay Naidu plays another fellow wrestler whom Randy faces in the ring. The film gives insight into wrestling and its effect upon personal living. Score: 10 / 10