Similar to the documentary Glow: Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling, 2012, this film looks at women’s wrestling from the viewpoint of the women involved in the sport. Directed by Jeremy Norrie, the film contains interviews with four women wrestlers from World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE, formerly WWF) as well as independent groups that host shows across the country. Compared to Glow, this film contains less footage of wrestling and focuses on the women’s stories.
With her bright blue-gray eyes and long dark hair, Katerina Waters plays the “Temptress” and draws on her experience as a model and actress to convincingly perform her role in the ring. Katerina first discovered wrestling in Great Britain where she attended a British wrestling show and learned from the commentators where to go for training. For the first five years, Katerina only wrestled men. She says the match is not completely choreographed, but like acting, each wrestler practices their parts until everything looks real. Katerina likes the creativity of forming a character and instigating the drama.
Sarah-Jean Greaves calls herself “Delilah Doom” and utilizes her love of theatrics and gymnastics to portray her fun role in the ring. Colorfully dressed like an aerobics instructor from the 1980s, Delilah uses her expert skills to win championships. Sara began her training in Austin, Texas, and then later trained at the Funaki School in San Antonio. She admits that she thought wrestling was real for a long time, but now recognizes that wrestling requires a lot of physical skills as well as acting ability, and the sport is not without risks.
Shelly Martinez, now retired, stated Cyndi Lauper, Hulk Hogan, and the Glow television show as inspirations to become involved with wrestling; with her beautiful eyes and long hair, Shelly was successful wrestling in the WWE playing a vampire. Shelly liked the storylines and couldn’t believe the Glow women were doing things that the men had always done. While Shelly and the other wrestlers admit the moves are fake and the storylines are predetermined, Shelly states the women put themselves through a lot and the sport requires coordination and athletic ability.
Keta Meggett grew up with two active brothers who practiced their martial arts skills on her. She also faced bullying and became wary of close contact. Keta found her passion with acting and gymnastics. When she arrived at an audition for a superhero role, she discovered the tryout was for lady wrestlers. At first, Keta turned down the opportunity; however, her father, a former Marine, advised her that wrestling might help her face her fears and she agreed to give wrestling a try. Keta named herself “Keta Buster” and formed a company “Bully Busters” to help young people be strong. This film may appeal to those who want to learn from individuals involved in this special sport. Optional. Aud: J, H, C, P.