7. Stone Cold Steve Austin: The Bottom Line On The Most Popular Superstar Of All-Time
Over the course of his Hall of Fame career, Steve Austin was the subject of many a WWE Home Video release. During the height of the Attitude Era, he was in such demand that he had three video tapes released in a two-year span. But none of those videos were what one would call a real, complete and in-depth look at the man Vince McMahon considers the greatest Superstar of all-time. In this 2011 release, Austin goes into great detail as he recalls his days growing up in Texas, watching pro wrestling every Saturday, training with the underrated "Gentleman" Chris Adams and the birth of the Steve Austin name, which he attributes to Dutch "Zeb Colter" Mantel. From there, he discussed his time in WCW, referring to himself as a "good hand" and "mechanic" as if, in retrospect, he knew he was not ready for a shot at the main event during that point in his career. The emotion he expresses while discussing his Hollywood Blondes team with Brian Pillman is a little moment that helps elevate the DVD in terms of quality, setting it head and shoulders above any other Austin release. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FcywUk10xxo Speaking of emotion, Austin again gets as close as possible to choking up when he discusses his friendship with The Rock, their WrestleMania XIX classic and the relationship with the fans that he enjoys. It was a side of Austin that fans had not ever seen before and one that goes to show just how truly passionate he was about his job, about the work he put in and the memories he holds so close to his heart. As for the viewer? Try keeping it together by the end of the presentation as country music icon George Strait's "Somewhere Down in Texas" plays over a highlight package. For a documentary dedicated to someone so rebellious, so full of attitude and venom, it is a truly touching piece dedicated to a man as responsible for the global success of WWE as Vince McMahon himself. The matches included are nothing fans have not seen before but some new commentary tracks featuring both Austin and the legendary Jim Ross help make for a fresh, pleasurable viewing experience.
Erik Beaston is a freelance pro wrestling writer who likes long walks in the park, dandelions and has not quite figured out that this introduction is not for Match.com. He resides in Parts Unknown, where he hosts weekly cookouts with Kane, The Ultimate Warrior, Papa Shango and The Boogeyman. Be jealous.
