The title conjures up images of bloated men in neon lycra, pumped with steroids and bringing a level of theatricals to the ring that is rivaled only in panto season. And funnily enough, the film is true to these traditions, but don't let this put you off. The Wrestler is an intriguing and sombre look into the life of an aging legend which is not a million miles away from the story of Jake La Motta (Robert de Niro) in Martin Scosese's Raging Bull.

Directed by Darren Aronofsky, The Wrestler's underwhelming documentary style complements the story of Randy “The Ram” Robinson, as the effects of aging take their toll on his once successful career. After one particularly violent match, Randy suffers a heart attack causing the lead character, whose real name we are constantly reminded is Robin, to reconsider his withering lifestyle. Rourke's wrestler begins to change his priorities as he gets a full-time job, pursues a relationship with strip-club performer Cassidy (Marisa Tomei), and reunites with his daughter. Yet it is clear from the moment Randy informs his fellow wrestlers that he is to hang up his sparkly leggings and retire from the world of wrestling for good, that the breakdown of relationships with both women in his life is inevitable. Almost as inevitable, in fact, as his eventual return to the ring.

Although the story seems quite familiar, the direction and acting performances of the main players make this a forgivable compromise. The characters are wholly believable and the skill with which Aronofsky weaves you in and around the different aspects of Randy's life (particularly before, during and after the wrestling match where Randy suffers a heart attack) is commendable.

Moments where we are privy to the routine of the wrestlers as they discuss the choreography of their performances are fascinating. As are the glimpses into some of the trade secrets of the wrestling world such as concealed razors and carefully chosen props. The transitions from this macho setting of the ring are often paralleled to the routine of another performer Pam (stage name Cassidy) who like Randy is, to put it crudely, past her best. Her similarly attention-craving characteristics are what bring Pam and Robin's aliases together and explains the mutual understanding and love between these characters.

Visually, Rourke is a cross between Rocky Balboa and a Guns N' Roses wannabe emphasizing that the character is desperately clinging onto the 80s; a decade that signifies the high point of his career. Mickey Rourke's portrayal of the lead Randy “The Ram” Robinson, unlike De Niro's as La Motta, is sympathetic. He is certainly not the villain of the piece, but like Raging Bull it is the protagonist's obsession with the sport and the limelight that leads to his downfall in and outside of the ring.

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