Queen of the Ring is an inspiring, glass-shattering, body-slamming biopic that tells the story of trailblazing women’s wrestler Mildred Burke. While the film delivers strong performances and a fascinating look at wrestling’s past, it struggles with tonal inconsistencies and an overstuffed narrative. Does it earn its place as a true champion, or does it stumble under its own weight? Let’s step into the ring and find out.
Performances
The film is anchored by a powerhouse performance from Anna Bett Rickards as Mildred Burke, portraying her resilience and determination with depth and intensity. Josh Lucas delivers a chilling performance as her abusive and manipulative husband, a slithery wrestling promoter whose presence looms over Burke’s career. The supporting cast also shines, with standout turns from real-life wrestlers Kailey Dawn Latimer (Kamille) and Toni Rossall (Toni Storm), adding authenticity and passion to the wrestling sequences.
Strengths & Weaknesses
One of the film’s greatest strengths lies in its performances. Rickards brings a raw and emotional depth to Mildred Burke, making her struggles and triumphs feel genuine, while Lucas plays a convincingly sinister antagonist. The wrestling choreography is another highlight, with era-appropriate moves like snapmares, vertical suplexes, and snug forearms adding to the film’s authenticity. The depiction of professional wrestling’s unique blend of athleticism and storytelling is well executed, capturing both the physical toll and the dramatic spectacle of the sport.
However, the film is not without its flaws. Tonal inconsistencies often disrupt the narrative, particularly in how it balances themes of women’s empowerment with intense, melodramatic relationship struggles. The soundtrack also feels out of place, with contemporary pop-country music awkwardly juxtaposed against darker scenes of domestic abuse and behind-the-scenes wrestling politics. Additionally, the story tries to cover too much ground, occasionally losing focus and making it difficult for certain emotional beats to fully land.
Final Verdict
Mildred’s journey from the carnival circuit to becoming the “First Million Dollar Women’s Athlete” feels well-earned and triumphant, and the filmmakers clearly understand the theatrical and athletic spectacle of professional wrestling. However, with a more focused narrative, better editing choices, and a refined soundtrack, Queen of the Ring could have been a true World’s Champion. As it stands, it’s still an entertaining and significant entry, worthy of a spot on the card.
Rating: 6/10
In Theaters Nationwide March 7, 2025!
Former pro wrestler and connoisseur of all storytelling. Love Batman, wrestling, movies, comics.