Wrestle

Wrestle is a revealing, thought-provoking and inspiring documentary film produced, directed, and shot by Suzannah Herbert and co-directed by Lauren Belfer. The film released in 2018 takes viewers on an intimate journey into the lives of four high school wrestlers from Huntsville, Alabama.

Against the backdrop of impoverished circumstances and numerous societal challenges, the film focuses on the world of young male athletes - Jailen, Jamario, Teague, and Jaquan - each grappling with complex personal issues. Jailen, a sensitive child and sole member of the team with two parents in attendance at the matches; Jamario, the ambitious team captain aiming to earn a college scholarship through wrestling; Teague, a figure wrestling with teenage fatherhood; and Jaquan, who struggles to stay afloat academically.

The film uses the framework of the wrestling season to structure these narratives, offering the viewer a glimpse into each of these young men's lives and motivations. The stakes are high, with potential scholarships on the line that could serve as both a lifeline and ticket out of their circumstances. These four wrestlers, with the help of their determined coach Chris Scribner, attempt to create a name for themselves in the wrestling world while simultaneously battling adversities of adolescence, race, and economic status in America's South.

Wrestle offers a unique perspective on the American education system's implications and the societal barriers faced by youth of color in the contemporary landscape. This stirring, and often shocking portrait of four ambitious yet troubled youth, uses the sport of wrestling as a symbol of struggle and resilience. In the same breath, it’s an examination of societal problems like institutional racism, educational disparity, and economic inequality. It explores how these systemic issues have impacted the lives of young individuals, endeavoring to combat their situations through the sport of wrestling.

The film observes the daily lives of these young individuals, their wrestling practice, school, family lives, and the neighborhoods they navigate, filmed in a cinéma vérité style. It presents the raw realities they face, going beyond the sport to deeply human moments of triumph, heartbreak, determination and hope. There's an immense focus on the relationships – the brotherly bonding amongst the teammates, their connection with their coach, and the intricate dynamics they share with their families, all adding to the narrative backbone of the film.

Audiences are privy to the relentless efforts of Coach Scribner, who is not merely focused on winning championships, but is more invested in shaping these young men's futures. His passion sparks a glimmer of hope amidst the gritty realities of the backdrop, bringing a powerful dimension to the narrative.

Wrestle showcases the intrinsic link between sports and personal development, highlighting how a traditionally physical endeavor can play a pivotal role in building character, determination, and persistence, against the odds stacked heavily against these young men.

Suzannah Herbert and Lauren Belfer masterfully capture these lives, pulling you into the reality with its poignant storytelling, candid moments, and the pure will, determination, and heart of its main subjects. The high-stakes competition is eloquently juxtaposed with the equally, if not more, challenging battles faced in reality. Even those who are not wrestling enthusiasts will find themselves deeply engrossed in the stirring narrative.

Critics and viewers alike have praised the movie for its raw storytelling, intimate and empathic portrayal of the characters, compelling narrative arc, and an enlightening perspective on real-world issues. Wrestle is a true standout within the realm of contemporary documentary cinema. With its powerful narrative, arresting photography, and remarkable resilience shown by the youngsters, the film will grip your heart and provoke thought.

In conclusion, Wrestle is a riveting, important, and affective slice of verité about the struggles of coming-of-age in the current socio-economic climate of America. It's a beautiful testament to the resilience of youth and an intimate exploration of the power of sports to change life trajectories, even in the face of adversity.