Review of The Wrestler (2008) by Filipeneto — 25 Apr 2021

Fight movies, or where the theme is combat sport, appeal little to my personal taste, but I heard about this film so well that I decided to watch it. I was not a fan, and I confess that this style of combat is absolutely disgusting, mixing masochism with ballet (everything is previously combined and choreographed). But the film has its moments, and the cast gave everything, and deserves this recognition.

The story revolves around a wrestler, moderately famous, but whose career has not been particularly bright for many years, and whose age is now beginning to demand some rest: his body is badly treated, life on the road and vices of the profession have also taken their price and the heart is weak. To preserve the little health he has left, he has to leave the ring and find a common job, but adapting to a new life promises to cause him great difficulties.

The rawness of the film can surprise, and even shock, the audience. And I'm not just talking about the brutality of the fighting, almost torture sessions by the Spanish inquisition! The film is not sweet and shows well the cruel change of life of the character, and the way it affects his self-esteem. It is not a pleasant film to watch, nor is it suitable for any audience. The harshness of scenes and situations is complemented by brutally sincere dialogues, in which there is no effort to soften words and things are what they are.

Mickey Rourke had a lot of courage and a good deal of cold blood. I, personally, do not know if I would be able to subject myself to everything he had to go through to play that character. It is a truly commendable effort, and the result of this is a dramatic, powerful, impactful and authentic interpretation. In fact, it is the main reason to see this film! Marisa Tomei also appears in this film, in the role of a stripper, and seems to be totally uninhibited and at ease in the nude scenes (apparently, she dismissed the body doubles). She is very beautiful, and a talented actress who brightened the film with a wonderful performance.

Technically, the film is quite interesting. Being a relatively low budget film, I was surprised that I never felt these financial limitations: the film has the look and quality of a more expensive film. The cinematography is very good and the sets, as well as the costumes, are of good quality and look good. The fight scenes are intense, and the level of brutality is high, and there is authentic blood there, I almost bet. The soundtrack seems to be fine, agreeing with the environment and the general tone.