Cassandro

I've had a lifelong respect for wrestling, so the subject matter automatically gets some points. That this is a really entertaining film with some heart just adds to it. The queer dynamic in wrestling is always going to be interesting because of how antithetical it is to much of the rest of it, and that's showcased here. Bernal was a joy as Cassandro. It goes a little overboard in ways that feel forced occasionally, but the words on the poster get it right: wild and entertaining.

Gael García Bernal, without having the type of wrestler charisma needed to 100% capture the imagination, grew into the character so well. AAA luchadores helped with the ring action, so that portion feels authentic. While it takes place in the flamboyant world of lucha libre, the film is kind of toned down, and this was one of the few times I felt it fit the mood. What it boils down to is that it's small film that bring a big climax with Cassandro facing such a legend as El Hijo del Santo!