Review of The Wrestler (2008) by Ven-Wede — 12 Jan 2012
Even with all of its gritty and melancholy realism, The Wrestler feels a little too safe. The story is a standard character-driven narrative which rarely moves away from the staples of what makes drama.
It includes such well-worn themes as issues with family, work, and poverty; coping with the present and letting go of the past, and coming to terms with mortality and the fragility of life; nothing that hasn't been done before.
This may be exactly what Aronofsky wanted to achieve with his bleak vision of reality; but it's just too slow-paced to be top-quality entertainment, and too basic to be top-quality art. However, a perfect performance from Rourke ensures it isn't lost to mediocrity.
Worth a watch, but don't expect layers of complexity -- the film is as superficial as it is sincere.
This review of The Wrestler (2008) was written by Ven-Wede on 12 Jan 2012.
The Wrestler has generally received very positive reviews.
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