Even those who’ve never seen any wrestling events will relate to Fighting with My Family. It makes you understand why the sport has fans, why there are dreamers who want to be a part of it and tells an affectionate Cinderella story.
Since they were young, Saraya “Paige” Bevis (Florence Pugh) and her older brother Zak “Zodiac” (Jack Lowden) have wrestled either by teaching their friends the ways of the ring or participating in events arranged by their parents, Rick (Nick Frost) and Julia (Lena Headey). Now they have a chance of becoming professionals when they are brought in for tryouts by Hutch Morgan (Vince Vaughn). When only Saraya is selected to move on to the NXT, it creates a rift between the previously inseparable siblings.
Certain aspects of the film are underdeveloped or just a little bit puzzling. Zak and Saraya’s other sibling, Roy, is so briefly seen he feels like an afterthought. Similarly, there is only the briefest glimpse at the real-life Saraya and it wouldn’t seem bizarre but she’s only shown in a hurried clip right before the end while Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson plays himself in the film and the credits have a message from him thanking his fans, which makes you wonder… these aren’t really criticisms worthy of deducting points for, however.
Overall, this is an emotional film whose drama feels genuine. Saraya has very real uncertainties about her skills in the ring, her relationship with her brother, what her identity inside and outside of the sport is, her looks, being away from home while training, and more. You already like her for her enthusiasm about the sport. She may not have the chops to be a star initially but the potential is clearly there. Witnessing the long journey she’s on and seeing her grow as she struggles through it cements your appreciation.
The characters are one of this film’s big strengths. There are numerous points where you think you’ll have someone pegged down as a type, a generic bully or a mere obstacle to help Saraya’s underdog story be more cinematic but then they’ll show an unexpected bit of vulnerability. If you have siblings, you’ll recognize and understand the jealousy Zak develops after his sister goes on to pursue the dream he’s always had. It makes you upset because despite the mistakes he makes you still hold onto that first smile you saw on his face when he was at his happiest. You desperately want things to get resolved so he can return to that.
We’re used to WWE studios delivering meathead action films, not drama-comedies with this much charm and emotion. Fighting with My Family isn’t only for wrestling fans. They will get an extra kick out of seeing familiar faces but everyone likes this type of heartfelt story. (Theatrical version on the big screen, February 25, 2019)
