Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on August 2009

©Niko Tavernise

Aging pro wrestler Randy (“The Ram”) Robinson is battered, broken and broke in this elemental character study by Darren Aronofsky (Pi, Requiem for a Dream), but he keeps on getting in the ring because it’s the only thing he knows how to do. It’s impossible to ignore the parallels here to actor Mickey Rourke’s own career and life. I won’t tell you how Randy’s shot at a comeback worked out, but it’s a rare and amazing thing to witness Rourke’s. Indeed, it’s hard to imagine any other actor in this highly physical role. Brilliant support by Marisa Tomei, who just gets better with each role.