Beyond the Mat (1999)

"Beyond the Mat" is an unflinching documentary that delves deep into the lives of professional wrestlers - Terry Funk, Mick Foley, Jake Roberts, and Darren Drozdov. The film gradually unravels the intricate tapestry of their lives, shattering the common misconceptions about the wrestling industry as a mere spectacle of plastic weapons and staged slaps. The film exposes the raw reality behind the high-octane stunts that may not cause actual injuries but are far from fake, demanding rigorous training to execute without harm. It offers a rare glimpse into the private lives of these wrestling gladiators, particularly Mick Foley. The film captures the emotional turmoil of a family who watches their patriarch risk his life on a weekly basis, while grappling with the societal scorn of their father being labelled a "fake". In a series of candid interviews, the documentary also ushers viewers into the boardroom of Vince McMahon, owner of World Wrestling Entertainment. McMahon confronts the criticisms levelled against his business empire, defending his organization and wrestlers from allegations of fakery by reputed sources like USA Today and numerous news programs. "Beyond the Mat" is a captivating journey into the heart of the wrestling industry, revealing the mettle, dedication, and humanity that lie beneath the flashy costumes and dramatic personas. It is a poignant narrative that challenges perceptions and commands respect for the men who transform the wrestling ring into a stage of mesmerizing performance art.

Beyond the Mat is a documentary movie featuring Terry Funk.

It is possible to buy Beyond the Mat on Amazon Video, Apple TV, DIRECTV, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, Vudu and YouTube.