Cast
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Terry Gene Bollea
as Hulk Hogan
Chris Pallies
as King Kong Bundy
Randy Poffo
as Macho Man Randy Savage
Jim Myers
as George 'The Animal' Steele
John Wisniski Jr.
as Greg 'The Hammer' Valentine
Ed Leslie
as Brutus Beefcake
David Smith
as Davey Boy Smith
Tom Billington
as Dynamite Kid
Paul Orndorff
as 'Mr. Wonderful' Paul Orndorff
Don Muraco
as The Magnificent Muraco
Mr. T
as Mr. T
Roddy Piper
as Rowdy Roddy Piper
Terry Funk
as Terry Funk
Dory Funk Jr.
as Hoss Funk
Merced Solis
as Tito Santana
Crew
Director
- Vince McMahon
Producer
- Vince McMahon
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, WrestleMania 2 examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Vince McMahon brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1986, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of WrestleMania 2 took approximately 28 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 181 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 218 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 66 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1986, when this film was released:
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While WrestleMania 2 shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Judgment at Nuremberg, which focuses more on action than character development, WrestleMania 2 offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Playing by Heart and Chinatown explore similar territory, WrestleMania 2 stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: April 7, 1986
- Runtime: 3h 1m
- Revenue: $5,000,000
