The 10 Best Movies About Professional Wrestling, Ranked

 

The 10 Best Movies About Professional Wrestling, Ranked

Professional wrestling, a spectacle of athleticism, drama, and pure entertainment, has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. While the squared circle is its primary stage, the silver screen has also provided a platform to explore the complex world of wrestling, both its glitz and its grit. Here, we rank the ten best movies that have delved into this captivating realm.

10. The Main Event (2020)

A heartwarming family comedy, The Main Event follows a young boy who discovers a magical microphone that gives him the voice of a wrestling superstar. While it might not be the most critically acclaimed, its ability to entertain both children and adults makes it a worthy entry on this list.

9. Fighting with My Family (2019)

Based on the true story of the Bella Twins, Fighting with My Family is a coming-of-age tale that captures the passion, determination, and familial bonds within the wrestling world. The film's humor and heartfelt performances make it a crowd-pleaser.

8. Nacho Libre (2006)

Jack Black delivers a comedic tour de force as a Mexican monk who becomes a luchador to raise money for his orphanage. While it's a broad comedy, Nacho Libre is undeniably entertaining and features some impressive wrestling sequences.

7. The Peanut Butter Falcon (2019)

This heartwarming indie film tells the story of a young man with Down syndrome who dreams of becoming a professional wrestler. While wrestling is not the central focus, the film's exploration of friendship, perseverance, and the human spirit is deeply moving.

6. Paradise Alley (1978)

A gritty drama set in the world of underground wrestling, Paradise Alley stars Sylvester Stallone as a struggling boxer who turns to wrestling to support his family. The film offers a raw and authentic look at the challenges faced by those on the fringes of the wrestling industry.

5. Win Win (2011)

Paul Giamatti delivers a stellar performance as a down-on-his-luck lawyer and high school wrestling coach in this poignant drama. The film explores themes of redemption, family, and the complexities of the human condition against the backdrop of the wrestling world.

4. The Iron Claw (2023)

This recent biopic chronicles the rise and fall of the Von Erich wrestling dynasty. With its stunning visuals and powerful performances, The Iron Claw offers a gripping portrayal of the pressures and tragedies that can befall wrestling families.

3. The Wrestler (2008)

Mickey Rourke delivers a career-defining performance as a washed-up wrestler struggling to find meaning in his life outside the ring. The Wrestler is a raw and unflinching look at the physical and emotional toll of the wrestling lifestyle.

2. Beyond the Mat (1999)

This documentary offers an unfiltered glimpse into the lives of professional wrestlers, both inside and outside the ring. With its candid interviews and intimate footage, Beyond the Mat is a must-watch for any wrestling fan.

1. Foxcatcher (2014)

While not a traditional wrestling film, Foxcatcher is a chilling drama based on the true story of the tragic relationship between Olympic wrestler Mark Schultz and the eccentric millionaire John du Pont. The film's exploration of power, obsession, and the dark side of the American dream is both haunting and unforgettable.

This list is by no means definitive, and there are many other worthy films that could be included. However, these ten movies offer a diverse range of perspectives on the world of professional wrestling, from the comedic to the tragic.

Would you like to explore a specific subgenre of wrestling movies, such as documentaries, comedies, or dramas?