Beyond the Mat 2000, Rated R

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Starring Terry Funk, Jake Roberts (II), et al. Released to DVD on August 29, 2000.

Overshadowed upon its initial theatrical release by WWF kingpin Vince McMahon's attempts at sabotage, Beyond the Mat is a long-overdue, earnest look at the enigmatic world of pro-wrestling. While not necessarily the best documentary on the subject, Beyond the Mat features the behind-the-scenes access seldom witnessed by the masses who flock to arenas or get the pay-per-view specials. Framed by director Barry Blaustein's unabashed enthusiasm for the sport, the film easily transcends the typically condescending view offered by the mainstream media who are always eager to hop on the wrestling bandwagon during sweeps, while still scoffing its trailer trash appeal. While Blaustein fails to lay the smack down on the seedier aspects of the business (steroid abuse, in-ring injuries and deaths, allegations of sexual harassment, etc.), he comes away with many golden moments such as Funk's hundredth attempt to retire, Foley's wife and children bawling during his infamous "I Quit" match against The Rock, and the dysfunctional reunion between Roberts and his estranged daughter. Not for everyone, but certainly more appealing than the mere subject matter might suggest.