The Wrestler

From Darren Aronofsky, the man who bought us "PI", "Requiem For A Dream" and the metaphysical mess, "The Fountain" comes a raw and powerful new film, "The Wrestler". This is not a "Rocky" or "Raging Bull" saga, but rather an intimate portrait of man 20 years past his prime trying to find his place in the world.

Mickey Rourke...that's right, Mickey Rourke, gives the performance of a lifetime as Randy "The Ram" Robinson, past his glory days and looking for worth beyond the ring. Mr. Rourke bares his soul and gives everything he has to this character. It is an Oscar caliber performance that will not be forgotten.

Co-starring is Marisa Tomei as a world weary stripper connecting, against her better judgment, with "The Ram". Evan Rachel Wood also stars as the daughter long ago left behind, angry and bitter when Mr. Rourke shows up at her door. They only have a few scenes together but they are filled with emotion as father and daughter try to reconnect.

Mr. Aronofsky films with camera work that puts you in the story, capturing every detail and bringing stinging reality to every scene. This is an honest, sometimes violent, and yet poignant film that will thoroughly surprise you.