About the film
Beyond the Mat is a 1999 American documentary film made, written, produced, directed, and narrated by Barry W. Blaustein. Running 103 minutes, it looks at professional wrestlers away from the ring, concentrating on Mick Foley, Terry Funk, Jake Roberts, and aspiring wrestlers.
The film follows the World Wrestling Federation, Extreme Championship Wrestling during its rise in popularity, and other independent wrestlers and organizations. Imagine Entertainment is listed as the production company, with Ron Howard as producer. The film is in English and was released by Lions Gate Films on October 22, 1999; it later appeared on VHS and DVD.
Its subject is professional wrestling and the personal lives connected to that work. The official page listed is Wikipedia.
Who it is for
It suits viewers interested in professional wrestling, wrestlers’ lives outside performances, and wrestling organizations. Students examining sports or entertainment documentaries may also find its focus useful.
Worth knowing
- Profiles Mick Foley, Terry Funk, and Jake Roberts
- Covers wrestling beyond the ring
- Includes WWF and ECW contexts
- 103-minute runtime
- English-language film
Before you press play
- Released in 1999
- Physical formats listed are VHS and DVD
The short of it
Beyond the Mat combines wrestler profiles with a look at major and independent wrestling organizations. Its 103-minute English presentation offers a concentrated portrait of wrestling life beyond performances.