WWE: Eric Bischoff - Sports Entertainment's Most Controversial Figure DVD Review
WWE brilliantly convey Bischoff's simultaneous drive to succeed and his reflective peace...
Like him or not, Eric Bischoff deserves to go under the spotlight for everything he achieved in pro wrestling.
Once a lowly office figure for the AWA, he was thrust in front of the camera and excelled. From there, he'd join WCW, again as a low-level announcer. Working his way up, he eventually revolutionised the North American industry, temporarily displacing the WWF as the number one promotion in the land.
Bischoff's various successes and failures make up the vast majority of his new WWE DVD release, subtitled 'Sports Entertainment's Most Controversial Figure' (released June 13th in the UK). That's a strong title, although digging for dirt is not necessarily what those interested in watching should be looking out for.
There's a reflective quality to the package, one that ably positions Bischoff as a bad boy turned elder statesman. Few stones are left unturned, and there's even a somewhat stirring conclusion to the main documentary that is at once honest and self-deprecating.
He may not be the most controversial man in the industry any longer, but Eric Bischoff's journey is one worth revisiting, and here's why...
10. Typically Slick Production
When reviewing any WWE DVD release, it seems obvious to state that the presentation is second-to-none. However, it really is perfect here, sweeping transitions boldly leave subtle cliffhangers during some of the biggest moments in the story. It's all highly powerful stuff, strung together by production staff who have really become masters in their field.
One moment, Eric Bischoff is discussing the end of World Championship Wrestling, pondering comments made by talking heads that directly criticise his part in proceedings. Then the camera suddenly fades to black and Bischoff is shown fishing out by a lake, never missing a beat as he confronts the accusations.
Such segues are wonderfully done, never taking away from the story but switching up the music or background just enough to keep things interesting. If there's one overwhelming benefit to be gleaned from WWE productions, it's that the quality of shot and storytelling is always going to be a highlight.
This is - for all intents and purposes - an interview with Bischoff, but it's also the story of his life. Presented in the documentary format, it's all expertly handled.