"Sure, wrestling is fake," admits narrator Steve Allen. "We wouldn't have it any other way." So much for ripping the lid off pro wrestling, but fear not--there may be no dirty little secret, but there is a colorful history... more ». Digging way back to its roots--when it was a genuine athletic event and not "a soap opera with a referee"--the slow mutation of wrestling is analyzed in generous detail from its height at the turn of the 19th century to its nadir as a carnival sideshow attraction and urban entertainment during the Depression to its phoenix-like rebirth on early television to its modern-day explosion on cable. Interviews with modern stars, such as Hulk Hogan and veterans Classy Freddie Blassie and Killer Kowalski, wrestling historians, and even college professors tackle the subject from all sides, but the commentary is secondary to the spectacle provided by a rich array of clips--everything from prissy Gorgeous George's ringside sashays to midget wresting to a montage featuring the ubiquitous folding chair to the head. The Unreal Story of Pro Wrestling tends to emphasize the freak-show elements of the sport--which, granted, are much of the documentary's fun--but does capture the showmanship and crazy energy that has transformed a sideshow attraction into a gonzo spectacle in a format that manages to be informative and fun at the same time. --Sean Axmaker« less
Dallas C. from PHILADELPHIA, PA Reviewed on 9/22/2010...
This DVD really explains/uncovers wrestling's roots. Whether you love or hate this form of entertainment, it's informative if nothing else. You'll gain a whole new perspective on an unknown subject if you're not already one of the initiated.
Movie Reviews
Don't waste your money...
Art Vandalay | 11/08/2001
(1 out of 5 stars)
"This title really is a waste of cash. If you saw it
on A&E when it first came out then you will know what I mean.
If not, trust your Uncle Jon here- the stories on here are
mostly fiction, even the interviews they do. The story on
Andre the Giant and Wrestlemania III is laugh out loud for
how little truth there is to it. They focus a little on the
early days (get your truth meter out) and then jump mainly
to the 1990's and the WWF. A man like Ric Flair, who has done
so much for this industry, is glossed over with at most 3
minutes of screen time. Bruno Sammartino is skipped entirely,
as are countless others that are legendary figures in
pro wrestling. Skip this title and go get Beyond the Mat or
even better- Wrestling with Shadows."
One Of The Best Wrestling Documentaries Avalible.
atomictomato | West Hazleton, PA USA | 08/25/2001
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Honestly, if you are looking for a wrestling documentary, if you don't already have it, I would highly suggest getting Beyond The Mat before buying this one, as Beyond The Mat is a much better, much deeper look into the world of professional wrestling. If you already have or have seen Beyond The Mat, this DVD would be an excellent add to your collection. This documentary originally aired on A&E, and is presented in a manner to explain pro wrestling to the non-wrestling fan. For wrestling collectors, this is a must have. For the casual fan, go with Beyond The Mat instead."
Only a true wrestling fan would have a video like this!
John Hodgdon II | Pensacola, Fl United States | 10/03/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"From the wrestling legends, to the their gimmicks and matches, this documentary shows it all. Just be prepared to spend a couple hours in front of the old tube... You can find all of your old favorites from Lou Thesz to Andre the Giant, to Hulk Hogan, and more! I reccomend this movie to any real hardcore wrestling fan who wants to know more about true Sports Entertainment."
A history of wrestling starting with the Greco Romans!
Andrew Clark | London, England | 03/25/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"The title doesn't give too much away and sells this DVD short. This is an excellent walkthrough for anyone interested in seeing why the wrestling business is how it is today. It concentrates on the last 100yrs. It is suitable for all ages and is a complete history lesson. It is packed with video footage and interviews from the stars of yesterday and today. There is no bias towards any one of todays "BIG 2". The trivia test is in stages, with classy sound effects for right and wrong answers. (Shame you dont get anything for answering all the questions correctly.) My wife hates me watching wrestling and even she thought the DVD was good value and informative. All in, a well balanced DVD with enough in it for you to go back and watch it several times. I would liked to have seen a bit more about the managers/women {Sunny}but that doesn't affect the great production, editing and storyline. I've got to thank Amazon for stocking it."