Film Overview"American Wrestler: The Wizard" is a 2017 sports biopic drama movie directed by Alex Ranarivelo. The inspirational motion picture is based upon the life of Iranian immigrant Ali Jahani, who transferred to the United States amidst the 1980 Iran captive crisis. The film stars George Kosturos as Ali, Jon Voight as Principal Skinner, and William Fichtner as Coach Plyler.
Plot SummaryEmbed in the early 1980s, the story focuses on 17-year-old Ali Jahani who gets away the discontent in Iran to transfer to a small town in California. Dealing with his resentful and far-off uncle Hafez (Ali Afshar), he deals with prejudice, xenophobia, and cultural alienation as he tries to absorb into his new land.
Ali stumbles upon the high school battling team and sees this as his opportunity to suit. In spite of preliminary struggles, he triumphs over his physical disadvantages through his relentless spirit and determination. With the assistance and belief of Coach Plyler (William Fichtner), Ali begins to win matches and slowly gets the trust and regard of his colleagues and fellow trainees.
Dispute and ResolutionHowever, their triumphes are overshadowed by the intensifying crisis between Iran and the U.S., causing increasing bias and hostility towards Ali. His success on the mat does little to suppress the bullying and racist taunts he deals with daily. The tension culminates when the town's parents force the school to expel Ali due to his nationality, under the suspicion of him being a hazard.
Ali makes the assistance of Coach Plyler and Principal Skinner (Jon Voight), who both rally for his rightful location at the school and on the fumbling team. Ali is permitted to participate in the coming state champion as a way to show his location in the neighborhood. The climax of the film is the champion match where not only does Ali have to battle his opponent, however likewise combat versus the perceptions surrounding his nationality. He ultimately wins the championship, making a standing ovation from his previously hostile community, silencing his critics, showing his place in society, and getting acceptance.
Styles and Representation"American Wrestler: The Wizard" handle styles such as battle, determination, acceptance, individuality, nerve, and resilience. The story of Ali Jahani, an immigrant searching for approval in a town ridden with deep-seated American nationalism, is emblematic of more comprehensive concerns that immigrants face. It depicts the personal battles, the character of battling and never ever giving up, and the ultimate victory of their spirit through adversities.
Final ThoughtsWhile the storyline of "American Wrestler: The Wizard" bears resemblance to other sports drama films where the underdog triumphs through adversity, it goes an action further by attending to bigger socio-political problems of xenophobia and bigotry. Coupled with an intense and genuine performance by George Kosturos, the movie provides an engaging narrative about an underdog who accomplishes acceptance and affection through his unrelenting decision and resilience. This movie eventually brings a revitalizing perspective to the oft-explored category of sports drama, making it a must-watch.
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