By Jack Benge
An honest, sobering tale of a broken-down man seems an odd fit for the fake, spandex-clad world of professional wrestling. What could be so harrowing about fixed matches and turnbuckle bombs? Director Darren Aronofsky gives us a look into the life of an aging professional wrestler who has seen better days in the ring with "The Wrestler."
The movie is centered on Randy "The Ram" Robinson, played to perfection by Mickey Rourke. Rourke, who earned an Academy Award nomination for his performance, portrays the tale of a wrestler 20 years past his prime. In the film, Randy "The Ram" Robinson attempts to balance his job at a local supermarket by day with his high-flying escapades in the ring by night. But Robinson's wrestling career has left him beat up and completely alone, struggling to make ends meet while dealing with his broken body.
What makes "The Wrestler" so interesting to behold is the inside look Aronofsky gives us into the lives of wrestlers on the periphery. Some are years past their prime and others are looking to break into the business in high school gymnasiums. Aronofsky follows Robinson through his struggle to balance a normal existence with his desire to wrestle. In the ring, "The Ram" experiences everything that he can't achieve as Randy Robinson: love, friendship and purpose.
But Robinson's wrestling career has left his private life in shambles. His daughter hates him because he abandoned her as a youngster. His only companionship costs $60 a dance from a stripper named "Cassidy," played by Marisa Tomei. And even though his matches' outcomes are decided in advance, the physical toll that Robinson's wrestling has taken on his body leaves him addicted to painkillers and on the edge of collapse.
Robinson can't let go of "The Ram" alter ego though, even after a heart attack leaves him so physically crippled that a short run leaves Robinson gasping for air. The film's final scene, a rematch of Robinson's biggest career bout, epitomizes his internal struggle and his quest for happiness. Does Robinson go all out for his beloved fans and risk his own health for one last showdown in the ring?
The one thing we learn about "The Ram" throughout the film is that he pushes himself to the brink, both in and out of the ring. As Robinson climbs the ropes for one last three-count, the audience is graced with one last spectacle before the final curtain call.
