The Wrestler (2008 film)

The Wrestler is a 2008 American sports drama film directed by Darren Aronofsky, written by Robert Siegel, and starring Mickey Rourke, Marisa Tomei, and Evan Rachel Wood. It tells the story of Randy "The Ram" Robinson, a professional wrestler past his prime who, after a heart attack forces him into retirement, struggles to connect with his estranged daughter, build a romantic relationship with a stripper, and come to terms with his fading fame.

The film was produced by Protozoa Pictures and Wild Bunch, and distributed by Fox Searchlight Pictures. The Wrestler received critical acclaim upon its release, particularly for Rourke's performance, which is often cited as a career comeback. The film was nominated for two Academy Awards: Best Actor (Rourke) and Best Supporting Actress (Tomei).

The film explores themes of aging, redemption, physical and emotional pain, the desire for connection, and the sacrifices made for entertainment. It is known for its realistic portrayal of the world of independent professional wrestling and the toll it takes on its performers. The film was shot on a relatively low budget and features several real-life professional wrestlers in supporting roles or as themselves.