Movies like The Wrestler

Directed by Darren Aronofsky, the same visionary behind The Wrestler, Black Swan explores the psychology and sacrifices of performing arts, much like the physical and emotional struggle depicted in the world of professional wrestling. Like Mickey Rourke's character, Natalie Portman's ballerina undergoes profound personal turmoil on her journey to perfection.

Directed by Clint Eastwood, Million Dollar Baby is a heart-wrenching tale of a determined female boxer and her trainer. Echoing The Wrestler, it delves into the challenges faced by athletes in combat sports and their quest for significance and validation through their craft.

Martin Scorsese’s gripping film about Jake LaMotta, a former middleweight boxing champion, parallels The Wrestler in its exploration of the toll that sports and fame take on one’s personal life, relationships, and self-destruction.

Warrior presents a compelling story of two estranged brothers competing in a mixed martial arts tournament, dealing with family drama and personal demons on par with the emotional depth and comeback story witnessed in The Wrestler.

This inspiring true story of boxer James J. Braddock’s astonishing comeback during the Great Depression is reminiscent of The Wrestler. Like Randy 'The Ram,' Braddock is an underdog fighting for one last shot at glory.

Southpaw tells the gritty story of a boxer who fights to get his life back on track after a tragic incident. Parallel to The Wrestler, it paints a vivid image of an athlete's struggles inside and outside the ring, and his fight for redemption.

This biographical sports drama, starring Mark Wahlberg and Christian Bale, tells the story of professional boxer Micky Ward and his brother who helped train him before going pro. It dives into the themes of family, comeback, and personal redemption which are central to The Wrestler.