Mark's Must See Movies - The Wrestler

The 2008 drama The Wrestler starred Mickey Rourke as Randy 'The Ram" Robinson. The story of a professional wrestler whose glory days are behind him as he struggles to make ends meet. While he once fought in the ring at huge venues in front of thousands of fans, he know finds himself working part-time at a grocery store and fighting at small wrestling venues. Twenty years of the pro wrestling life have left Randy's health, appearance, and his personal life. When Randy is faced with health problems that all but end what's left of his career, he tries to rekindle a damaged relationship with his daughter (Evan Rachel Wood) and form a closer bond with a stripper named Cassidy (Marisa Tomei) he's developed romantic feelings for.

The Wrestler is a gritty drama that will tug on your heart strings and connect with you on a level you might not expect. Though few of us can relate directly too Randy's struggles, we as an audience connect with Randy and compare his struggles with our own. The character of Randy Robinson is crafted beautifully and Mickey Rourke's performance is flawless. Despite the many hardships that inflict Randy's life, most of which were brought on by his own choices, you geniuley care for the character and are always pulling for him to find the best outcome. Randy is a very personable and likeable guy and it's the humanity in his character that makes the audience become so attached to him. Rourke was rightfully nominated for an Oscar for his role in The Wrestler and his named not being called out as Best Actor in a Leading role that year is now considered one of the biggest mistakes and upsets the Academy has ever made.

The Wrestler makes it's way onto my must see movie list because unlike many films in recent years it's main purpose is to tell us a story. It's not flashy, it's not over produced, and it doesn't take place in a world most of us can't understand. A masterfully crafted script, exceptional performances by all the actors,  and strong directing by Darren Aronofsky all come together to become one of the most gritty, entertaining, and hearfelt movies ever to hit the silver screen. If my thoughts on the movie haven't convinced you, click here and the trailer for the film will.