2. The Wrestler (2008)
Shot in a style that mimics cinéma vérité, The Wrestler tells the story of Randy 'The Ram' Robinson (Mickey Rourke), a pro wrestler on his way to retirement. His heyday was in the 80's when he worked for a bigger wrestling promotion and fought the big names for top dollar. Now, he barely makes ends meet, lives in a trailer park, is divorced, hasn't spoken to his estranged daughter (Evan Rachel Wood) in years, and is working the indie circuit for a few hundred dollars a week while working at a supermarket. Running parallel to his story is that of a stripper named Cassidy. She is good friends with Randy and is his link to the real world. Her career mirrors Randy's in that she's also a bit older than her peers and is affected by the passage of time. She's seen as irreverent among her clientele and strives to make ends meet. A heart attack after a grueling hardcore match is what forces Randy to be shelved and into retirement. Soon after, he decides to conform to everyday, mundanity and try to rebuild relationships and start new ones. This of course, involves trying to make contact with his daughter, Stephanie and win the heart of Cassidy. When everything goes awry, Randy finds that a return to the ring (against doctor's orders) is his only means to salvation. His moment of self awareness comes after the fallout while working the deli counter. Unable to deal with the constant stream of customers, he thrusts his thumb into the meat slicer and quits his day job. He smears his own blood across his face and mocks the customers, causing a ruckus and exiting with the bravado that only a charismatic pro wrestler could get away with. In his return match against The Ayatollah, Cassidy makes a last ditch effort and quits her job to be in attendance. Backstage, she confides in Randy and offers her full attention and friendship to which Randy is appreciative, but admits to feeling most at home with his fans. Despite the physicality of the sport, the only place he's truly hurt is outside the ring. Though heartbreaking, it's a beautiful sentiment that directly reflects The Ram's acceptance of his true nature. He's come to terms with the material world, but chooses to live a life more authentic and true to his persona.