‘Queen of the Ring’ Review: Exploring Women’s Muscle Mania in the 1930s

Exploring the Film Adaptation of “Queen of the Ring”

Directed by Ash Avildsen, the upcoming film “Queen of the Ring”is based on the acclaimed work of Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Jeff Leen. The movie brings to life the astonishing journey of Mildred Burke, who made history as the first female athlete to earn a million dollars in professional wrestling.

The Legacy of Mildred Burke

Mildred Burke, born Mildred Bliss in Kansas, is a trailblazer in women’s sports, especially in the wrestling arena during an era when the profession faced significant restrictions. As a single mother to her son, Joe Jr., Burke fought against societal norms from the 1930s through the 1950s, navigating a landscape where women’s wrestling was often prohibited.

A Glimpse into Her Life

“Queen of the Ring”invites viewers to delve deep into Burke’s life, showcasing her rise to fame and eventual reclamation of her identity. The narrative intertwines her personal struggles with significant moments in women’s wrestling history, appealing to history enthusiasts as well as devoted fans of WWE and AEW.

Emily Bett Rickards as Mildred Burke and Josh Lucas as Billy Wolfe in Queen of the Ring — (Sumerian Pictures)

Star-Studded Cast

Avildsen has assembled an impressive cast to portray these iconic figures. Emily Bett Rickards, known for her role in CW’s Arrow, takes center stage as Mildred Burke. Her on-screen son is portrayed by Gavin Casalegno from “The Summer I Turned Pretty.”The film opens dramatically with the 1954 Women’s World Championship, then transitions back to Burke’s early days with her mentor and husband, Billy Wolfe, played by Josh Lucas, recognized for his roles in “Sweet Home Alabama, ””Palm Royale, ”and “Yellowstone.”

The Complexity of Relationships

The relationship between Mildred and Billy is rife with challenges, beginning with promise but deteriorating into betrayal, abuse, and manipulation. This complex dynamic drives much of the film’s emotional weight. Alongside Wolfe’s character, June Byers, portrayed by wrestler Kailey Dawn Latimer (Kamille), emerges as a formidable rival, enriching the narrative with her competitive spirit.

Recognizing Women in Wrestling

The film’s cast includes several notable wrestlers, such as Trinity Fatu (Naomi) as Ethel Johnson, the first African American women’s champion, and Toni Storm, who plays Clara Mortensen. Their involvement is a tribute to the rich history of women in professional wrestling.

Critique of Narrative Flow

While the film captures the tumultuous essence of Burke’s life, some critics argue that it suffers from pacing issues. The narrative sometimes lingers on personal drama at the expense of momentum, suggesting that emotional scenes could have been more impactful with better editing and narrative structure. Moments of triumph and adversity could have been enhanced to resonate more deeply with the audience.

Emily Bett Rickards as Mildred Burke in Queen of the Ring — (Sumerian Pictures)

The Action in the Ring

Audiences can expect exhilarating ring action reminiscent of Netflix’s “GLOW, ”although the camaraderie among female wrestlers is somewhat sidelined. One standout character is Mae Young, played by Francesca Eastwood. Despite her role as a side character, Young’s screen presence often overshadows that of the lead, showcasing her remarkable story as a pioneering lesbian wrestler in a challenging era.

Mixed Performances

The casting of Tyler Posey as G. B.Wolfe has received mixed reviews, particularly regarding the depth he brings to a character undergoing significant emotional shifts. Some believe that his performance detracted from Joshua Lucas’s portrayal of Billy Wolfe, whose character had the potential for a more powerful and compelling arc. Walton Goggins’ role as Jack Pfefer provides a glimpse of the dominant presence that could have elevated the film further.

Final Thoughts

Despite its shortcomings, “Queen of the Ring”boasts captivating moments, highlighted by Emily Bett Rickards’ performance and thrilling wrestling sequences. This film encapsulates an underdog tale, celebrating the journey of a woman who broke barriers in professional wrestling. While the execution may falter in parts, the story of Mildred Burke is likely to inspire and engage audiences.

Mark your calendars: “Queen of the Ring”is set to hit theaters on March 7.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jXBbdsWsJM0

QUEEN OF THE RING | Official Trailer (2025) | In Theaters March 7 – Based on a True Story (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jXBbdsWsJM0)

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