14 DAY TRIAL // With the Oscars 2009 only a few days away from taking place and the world focusing mostly on the main contenders, Bruce Springsteen launches the video for “The Wrestler,” off the soundtrack of the film with the same title and his 2009 album, “Working on a Dream.” Beautifully shot and carefully edited, the video is believed to be a slap in the face of the Academy for snubbing Springsteen, it has been said.
“The Wrestler,” directed by Darren Aronofsky and starring Mickey Rourke and Marisa Tomei, received countless praise not only for the acting and the directing, but also for its heart-wrenching musical score. Yet, Rolling Stone says, Bruce Springsteen was snubbed this year in the Best Original Song category, and this could easily be his response to being overlooked.
In all fairness, the aforementioned publication says, the video is outstanding even if it hadn’t been made as if to show the Academy what’s been missing out on by not nominating Bruce. There is a clear sense of Springsteen identifying himself with Rourke’s onscreen character, while also of a sadness that is beyond words, yet equally painful. The way in which the camera always closes in on Bruce’s face each time he says “Then you’ve seen me” is also to be noted and appreciated, it is said.
“We thought ‘The Wrestler’ [the song] worked perfectly soundtracking a black screen and rolling credits at the end of ‘The Wrestler,’ but it’s just as harrowing as a music video. Springsteen stands center ring, caressing the ropes of one of those old school boxing rings you’d see Rocky training in. Add a montage of poignant ‘Wrestler’ clips and this doubles as both the best movie trailer ever and a ‘Vote Rourke for Best Actor’ campaign video.” Rolling Stone writes of the newly-released video.
“The Wrestler,” the brutal story of a real-life wrestler trying to make a comeback in the industry, while also having to come to terms with the fact that, throughout his life, he pushed all those that cared for him away, is Mickey Rourke’s chance for an Oscar this year. Until the winners are announced and fans see whether the actor makes the cut, below is Bruce Springsteen video for “The Wrestler.” Enjoy.