Gael García Bernal delivers a wonderful performance in this diverting biographical film about the wrestler Cassandro, who went from being unknown and poor in Texas to achieving international recognition. It’s established relatively soon that he and his mother, Jocasta (Perla De La Rosa), managed to survive after his father left them by holding down numerous jobs and through him working as an "exotico"—essentially a “glamour” wrestler—in a temporary garage setting where he would exaggerate his persona before being defeated by a much larger opponent. Beyond the physical discomfort, he develops a desire for a better life for himself and his mother, realizing that he possesses the talent to advance professionally. Along with his newly acquired, tough, trainer Sabrina (Roberta Colindrez), he creates the character of “Cassandro” with the goal of being the first of his kind to actually win! What follows is something of a flawed film from a technical standpoint; the editing and continuity aren't particularly strong, but Bernal’s undeniable charm as he portrays this openly gay man in an environment that largely offers him only rejection often proves quite funny and captivating. There's also a somewhat complex romantic element for his character, but fundamentally it’s about Bernal embracing a flamboyant persona, reminiscent of Liberace, in the ring where he skillfully defeats opponents significantly larger than himself. Similar to many boxing stories, this one highlights the limited avenues available for those caught in poverty to break free from their ordinary lives—especially when their sexuality doesn't fit conventional norms; and it also effectively shows how a community finds value and support in these informal, almost bare-knuckle events. I was completely unfamiliar with “Lucha Libre” culture before seeing this, which proved to be quite revealing, particularly when considered alongside the prominent but not overpowering gay storyline. Perhaps it's not essential to experience it on the big screen, but I did find it enjoyable and it’s certainly worth watching.

Source on TMDB