I was a HUGE fan of professional wrestling growing up; religiously watching WWF and becoming so addicted that eventually I began to watch WCW and even, to a lesser extent, ECW. As I grew older and more into other sports, I left the world of professional wrestling fandom just as Dwayne “the Rock” Johnson was transitioning from wrestling superstar to WORLD superstar. However, I still try to catch the bigger annual WWE events like Royal Rumble and WrestleMania, while also watching documentaries that illuminate much about the actual business and history behind the sport. “Fighting with My Family” works as both entertaining and informative.
The film tells the story of how WWE Women’s Superstar “Paige” grew up in the family business of wrestling and made it all the way to the main roster of the WWE. While I always find it difficult NOT to invest in any true story I decide to listen to or watch, the film does a number of other things very well. For one, the audience is treated to a meaningful look at the relationship between all of Paige’s family members without lingering on that aspect even slightly too long. Then, it narrows the focus more so to the relationship between Paige (played by the loveable Florence Pugh) and her brother Zak (played by the endearing and surprisingly relatable Jack Lowden) who, along with his sister, had wanted to make it to the big stage of professional wrestling since they were children.
As expected, we are also treated to a number of cameos by famous wrestlers, the most popular of all, of course, being the Rock. But even the Rock’s role is informative, as he appears just the right amount to move the story along without shifting focus to him for any extended period of time. Vince Vaughn, who plays Hutch or “Coach” is also just as simultaneously lighthearted as he is assertive, bringing to the film yet another tone-setting presence. I also particularly enjoyed the way Paige and Zak’s relationship can be seen evolving throughout, even and at times, especially, when they’re not together.
“Fighting with My Family” is MUCH more than a wrestling movie. While telling Paige’s story, it certainly illuminates much about the inner workings and difficulties behind making it big. But, it also does an incredible job at reminding the audience that just because millions of people aren’t watching you, does not mean you are not just as capable of doing extraordinary things and having a major impact on the lives of others. For being funny, informative and extremely well put together, I give the film a strong 3.5 reps out of 5 and strongly encourage all moviegoers to watch it, whether in theatres or at home, as soon as possible. It’s a seamless hour and forty minute watch that should appeal to both wrestling fans and non-wrestling followers alike. And, if you’re at the tip of your patience waiting for the final season of Game of Thrones as I am, then you’ll also love the film’s dose of Lena Headey, who I first fell for in “300” as she played King Leonidas’ wife Queen Gorgo and currently plays the role of Cersei Lannister in GoT.
Has this film clotheslined your funny bones yet? Have you had the chance to learn about the world and business of wrestling entertainment by watching Fighting with My Family? Let me know either way in the comments below and don’t be surprised if we become good pals after connecting over such a great film!
I was already interested in watching this movie due to its wrestling background but was on the fence since the WWE does not have the best track record in my book for film-making. Im enthused to find out this movie was not a complete bomb shell and instead you have just turned it into a must watch! Thanks E and see you for Wrestlemania!
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