The Wrestler

Wrestling with Jesus

Many have touted this movie as a great character piece marking the return of Mickey Rourke to greatness. Others have stated that the only reason why Rourke is so good in this film is because in many ways it mirrors his own life. Either way, no one disputes that his portrayal of a former headlining wrestler whose life is falling apart is masterful. As for it being his comeback, I will admit that I was never aware of his first arrival. I have never been very familiar with Rourke's older work, however his recent work has shown he is certainly an actor to be reckoned with. He delivers a character who speaks more in his silence with his mannerisms than in his dialogue and is able to give rousing speeches. Only true great actors have these qualities and it is a privilege to watch him on screen. As great as Rourke is on screen, I am actually more impressed with Marisa Tomei. I have the impression that many have written her off since she plays a stripper and shows off her body throughout the film. However, her reactions and choices create some of the most humble and heart rending moments in the film. I truly believe in the chemistry between Rourke and Tomei and recognize that it takes two to create such a believable relationship.

The direction by Aranofsky is subtle but at times apparent. He makes it clear to the observant audience member the changes and choices that Rourke's character is going through. It is amusing to see Rourke waiting behind the plastic strips getting ready to enter the meat area of the supermarket to work with the customers and putting himself into a mode similar to that of the wrestling matches. Also, the constant tight following camera on rourke's back creates a sense of tension as you constantly feel to close to the actor and unable to escape. At times, the camera doesn't seem to be able to hold Rourke's massive frame. The low budget nature is obvious, but it is also obvious that Aranofsky knows how to get the most out of the low-end budgets and techniques.

Now, for Jesus. The whole story is analogous to Jesus and his last few days on earth. It could be called Passion of the Christ part 2. It is modern and the brutality that Rourke puts himself through is ridiculous. It is fascinating to see how the wrestlers plan out their matches and how they communicate during the match. Then to see the real pain they inflict on each other to offer the audience a good brutal show reminiscent of the roman Christian offerings and battle of gladiators. Besides the physical torture and pain that Rourke must endure like Christ, the movie makes a specific reference to Passion of the Christ. Also, Rourke's character spends his time in the movie trying to overcome his recent heart attack and find a place for himself in the real world with a possible family to settle down with, but it becomes apparent that his own personal family and staying out of the spotlight is impossible as the people around him turn on him and give up on him and he realizes that his only real family is the crowd of fans and people shouting for his gory and glorified body. I'll be honest when I say I am not sure yet what Aranofsky's message is about this act yet although I know he is heavy into philosophy so I am sure there is a point or message about Jesus and his actions implied through the film. My guess, is that the film is actually about how Jesus had to choose to sacrifice himself to save those around him. It wasn't destined. There are many points in the film where Rourke has the option to turn away from his final demise and he chooses not to. He is even offered his last temptation and turns it down. Although when he looks back for a split second at his possible salvation, it has left. The film then ends Thelma and Louise style with Rourke jumping at the camera, immortalized in that moment and decision to embrace his possible death or possibly go one become the legend he once was again. This is an excellent film. It is an honor to watch it if for nothing else the chemistry and acting of Tomei and Rourke.

9 out of 10

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