Sunday, January 4, 2009

The Wrestler

Movie name: The Wrestler
Year of release: 2008
Director: Darren Aronofsky
Stars: Mickey Rourke, Marisa Tomei, Evan Rachel Wood, Mark Margolis, Wass Stevens, Todd Barry
Genre: Drama
Score out of ten (whole numbers only): 8

Synopsis:
Randy 'The Ram' Robinson is a wrestler who has had his glory days in the 80s. Now in his 50's he performs in smaller amateur venues and goes to fan conventions, trying to recapture some of the old glory. His only friend, potential romantic interest is Cassidy (professional name, Pam real name), a stripper/dancer (of a certain age) whom he knows from a local bar. Randy also works in a grocery store during the week to make ends meet. Following a particularly difficult match, Randy has a heart attack and finds himself having to quit the Wrestling world. He tries to connect with his estranged daughter Stephanie, but eventually decides to give his final effort in a match with an old oponent. 
Darren Aronofsky follows the beautiful "The Fountain" with a film that, at first sight, is totally its opposite. Whereas "The Foutain" was about the beauty of life and love, across multiple dimensions, timelines and existences, "The Wrestler" goes for the gritty realism and focuses on showcasing the path to redemption of a beaten down (and lonely) man. The film showcases a terrific performance by Mickey Rourke, one where the mix between his own life and his character's seems to blend to give a richer and more profound sense of where the end of this character's life is. Marisa Tomei also excels as Cassidy, portraying a woman who knows her youth is slowly fading and that her future needs to be changed and moved in a different direction. This is a moving and touching film, one where you can feel the pain and angst of the characters. It's also a testament to a life of unfulfilled dreams, the people you at times leave behind, and the sacrifices you make for what you want to pursue, even if in the end, that pursuit leaves you empty handed and broken hearted. It's a gut wrenching film, anchored in solid performances, with Evan Rachel Wood also adding solid support to Mickey Rourke's indelible presence. The cinematography from Maryse Alberti is great, as is the score from Clint Mansell. A great film from a talented film maker. 

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