Mickey Rourke

All the praise that's been heaped on this moving tale of a broken-down pro wrestler struggling to remain relevant despite his failing body is deserved. (The Academy really snubbed this one in the Best Picture race.) The standout, of course, is Mickey Rourke, whose portrayal of Randy "The Ram" will have even the big boys searching for their hankies by the time this one's down for the count.

Rourke's masterful performance is beautifully matched by turns from Evan Rachel Wood as Randy's bitter estranged daughter and Marisa Tomei, whose aging stripper is — like Randy — struggling to stay in her own game. All of these characters are so vivid and real, and in the hands of Darren Aronofsky, they continually remind us that life must still be lived once the spotlight fades and the crowd stops cheering.

The bonus features on the release are scarce, but they pack a serious punch. In addition to ... read more be the first to leave a comment

The Wrestler's Mickey Rourke assured reporters that he wouldn't be getting in the ring to wrestle rival Chris Jericho during Wrestlemania 25. But he didn't say anything about boxing.

During Sunday night's main event, Rourke, a former boxer, entered the ring with Jericho and knocked Jericho to the mat with one punch. Looks like he's all warmed up to play the heavy in Iron Man 2.

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Comeback kid Mickey Rourke has wrestled his way into two new projects.

The Golden Globe winner has signed on to play the Russian villain Whiplash in Iron Man 2, according to Variety. Rourke has been in consideration for the role for several months, but the deal took some fine-tuning after Marvel initially offered The Wrestler star only $250,000.

Rourke, who was recruited by Iron Man star Robert Downey Jr. during the awards-show circuit, met with director Jon Favreau and writer Justin Theroux to develop his character. Whiplash will include elements of the comic-book character of the same name, as well as Crimson Dynamo, another Russian evildoer.

Rourke will also ... read more 1 Comment

You already know how we feel about the Oscar song category, but how about the other races — particularly the big ones? Well, now you'll find out. Behold, TVGuide.com's predictions for the 81st Academy Awards (Sunday, ABC at 8:30 pm/ET). Don't agree with us? Then check out the nominees here and tell us who you think will and should triumph on Hollywood's biggest night.
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Mickey Rourke is mourning the loss of his best friend — his longtime pet Chihuahua, Loki. The canine passed away Monday evening at the age of 18, E! Online reports.

Loki, who's been the Oscar nominee's sidekick to various events, including the Venice Film Festival red carpet, was one of the pooches ...
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