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Ranking the WWE Studio Films
Films using wrestling stars as lead characters were not new before the inception of WWE Studios.
Hulk Hogan moved to the big screen with No Holds Barred in 1989, followed by Suburban Commando and Mr. Nanny, the latter being described as ‘terrible’ by Couch Sports Guy. From rather inauspicious starts, films involving wrestlers have certainly improved, with wrestling stars becoming easier to market and less gimmicky, which has led to improved commercial opportunities.
The likes of Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson and John Cena have successfully bridged the gap between wrestling and credible Hollywood movies, aided in no small part by the formation of WWE Studios in 2002, formerly known as WWE Films. 56 films later, the studio has been responsible for some great releases, using the stars of the squared circle in conjunction with big names to help drive their popularity.
So, we have picked five of the best, ranked for you to enjoy.
Leprechaun: Origins (2014)
Dylan ‘Hornswoggle’ Postl cultivated the in-ring persona of a cheeky Leprechaun, a popular figure from Irish mythology. The Leprechaun has appeared in Irish-themed films and video games for many years, with the 2007 PlayStation 3 release Folklore drawing heavily from the influences. Titles such as Leprechaun’s Magic and Wish Upon a Leprechaun feature on Gala Bingo, and also lean on those Irish stereotypes made popular by Hornswoggle. Those classic depictions tend to focus on a slightly less sinister figure though, not drawing from the previous comedy-horror franchise of the same name. There was nothing comedy about the 2014 WWE Studios release though, a cult classic that was not an initial hit with audiences.
See No Evil 2 (2014)
The use of a legendary heel such as Kane as the antagonist in a horror movie is simply good casting. Whilst a true gentle giant in real life, Glen Jacobs cuts an imposing figure in the second slasher film bearing the See No Evil name. We are not sure what is more terrifying, the fact Jacob Goodnight is a killer, or that he is a 7ft, 320lb killer. Fans of the slasher genre will certainly enjoy this formulaic approach which does not try to be too clever or thought-provoking.
Legendary (2010)
Whilst wrestling heels work well as antagonists, it might be a surprise how well the talented John Cena does to carry this sports drama through. He plays Mike, a lost soul who is reunited with his family through a shared love of wrestling. There is something about the use of wrestling as the plot device that makes the film feel authentic and believable, something also contained with Cena’s gripping performance.
The Call (2013)
Halle Berry is a bona fide Hollywood superstar, having been in films such as X-Men and Catwoman. Her popularity doubtless spread due to her roles in those comic book films, which often garner a huge cult following, which in turn helps create interest in her other projects, such as this psychological thriller. It did not feature a WWE star in the lead roles, but David Otunga did impress as Officer Jake Devan.
Fighting with My Family (2019)
Dwayne Johnson was on the production team of this comedy-drama, with British comedy writer and actor Stephen Merchant directing. Telling the true story of a wrestling family from England, it charts the rise of Saraya-Jade Bevis, aka WWE Superstar Paige. Big Show, Sheamus and The Miz all make guest appearances in a film generally well-received by critics, and arguably the best the WWE Studios have produced to date. What is exciting is the fact it was also a recent one, hopefully meaning they have found a genre and style that audiences and critics alike warm to.