by Jen M. Hernandez

Created on: August 07, 2009

The Wrestler (2008)

Directed by: Darren Aronofosky

Starring: Mickey Rourke, Marisa Tomei, and Evan Rachel Wood

The Wrestler is the story of a man who has dedicated his life to pro-wrestling and at his best has a tremendous following. Nevertheless, the sacrifices he made to become a hero to his fans are seemingly irreparable. But when his body can no longer take the physical nature of the sport, he's thrust into the real world and finds that his family and friends are not nearly as receptive as his audience. Eager to find a niche, he learns that there's no place he feels more at home that within the very dangerous, and potentially fatal, wrestling ring.

Mickey Rourke's comeback film, he does an exceptional job in the role of Randy The Ram. The Ram portrays an individual who has compromised his personal life to gain celebrity. However, once his health deteriorates after a heart attack, there seems to be no one at his side. Furthermore, The Ram can barely make his rent payments, and is indebted to the individuals who continuously provide him with an array of drugs. Though he possesses an obviously likeable personality, it doesn't appear to make much difference in his personal life. His career choices in the past have severed his relationship with his daughter, and the only friend he can find is in a middle-aged stripper who struggles to keep her professional and personal life separate. In the end, the place where Ram finds the emotional fulfillment he desires, is the very place where he will meet his demise.

Over fifteen awards to his name, Director Darren Aronofosky is the writer and director of several other well-known films, such as The Fountain, Requiem for a Dream, and Pi.

Not too many people understand the dangers of wrestling entertainment. This film will give them a bird's eye view perspective of the potential dangers. But this film is not about wrestling alone; The Wrestler provides insight into the world of wrestling entertainment, the consequences of fame, and the struggles of life itself. This film will certainly cause viewers to put their own life in perspective. It was incredibly well cast and beautifully filmed.

Anyone who understands, or can appreciate the sentiment of a mid-life crisis, wanting to fit in, or belonging to something should watch this film. Furthermore, The Wrestler offers viewers a different perspective of the sacrifices celebrities make, and the long hard fall off of a pedestal.

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