It’s always a bit worrying when WWE describe anything as “The True Story” because Vince does know how to do his old propaganda. Not everything on this DVD would pass a lie detector test, that’s for sure, but it is a hugely enjoyable look back at the history of the greatest wrestling show in the world.
The Biggest Gamble in Wrestling History
Most wrestling historians will already know the story but for fans new to the business this is an absolute treat. We start with the story of how Vince trounced the territories and changed the world of US wrestling forever. The links with MTV and Cyndi Lauper are explained and the depth of the gamble that Vince took in staging the first ever WrestleMania. I wonder just what would have happened to wrestling in the States if that first show had been a flop.
We’re taken through each WrestleMania individually, showing just how difficult a task the company had to establish the show and somehow make it bigger every year. Vince does his best Pinocchio impression when again inflating the WrestleMania III attendance, no surprise there.The problems with WrestleMania VII and the disastrous Gulf War storyline are examined but the fact that barely anyone liked WrestleMania IX isn’t really mentioned that much.
Kind words about Hogan?
Aside from looking back at each WrestleMania there are special features on influential stars such as The Undertaker, The Rock, Shawn Michaels and Steve Austin illustrating the impact they’ve had on WrestleMania. Despite his move to TNA, WWE are pretty kind to Hulk Hogan too, though by showing how big a part he played in WrestleMania it doesn’t quite explain how he failed to make the top ten in the 50 Greatest Superstars of all Time DVD.
There are several examples of backstage footage that have not been seen before. The story of how WWE revitalised the worn-out Citrus Bowl into a great venue again is particularly interesting. It shows just how much time, effort and dollars WWE put into this show. The DVD also looks at how the weekend has developed over the years from the days when people watched the show in cinemas around the States to the introduction of the fanfest and the Hall of Fame Ceremony.
The DVD is packed with interviews from the greatest WWE stars (well, those still alive or talking to Vince) and the man who gave the show its name, Howard Finkel.
Extras
The second and third Discs are full of some of the best ever matches seen at WrestleMania. Sure you probably already own them but as a one-off night of entertainment without having to keep changing discs this is a great tribute to WrestleMania.
The True Story of WrestleMania is available from SilverVision.
Stephen Ashfield - I'm just coming up to 49 years old so the countdown to 50 is about to begin. I live in Southampton in the UK but was born and bred in ...
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