Five years after the documentary was made, Saul Armendariz is now the subject of a biopic, Cassandro. It has to be said that there is a lot to say about this openly gay international wrestling star. In the ring, he becomes Cassandro El Exotico, his extraordinary alter ego with extravagant make-up and costumes.
In the film dedicated to him, directed by documentary filmmaker Roger Ross Williams, Gael García Bernal slips into the skin of the character. The actress has never hesitated to play queer characters, like a transgender woman in Pedro Almodovar’s Bad Education. He plays Saul Armendariz with a sensitivity and exceptional tenderness that shines through on screen.
In Mexico, the country of origin of the main character Lucha free – a specific term for Mexican wrestling – the second most popular sport after soccer. This film is surprising in that it highlights an athlete who defies the codes of his discipline.
In wrestling, despite the tight lycra suits that can be confusing, exaggerated masculinity is king. The existence of Saul Armendaris/Cassandro and his rise against all odds is fascinating.
If the biopic struggles to escape some of the genre’s pitfalls, it’s worth a detour for the subtle interpretation of its lead star and the colorful portrait reserved for this brilliant star of The Ring.
Cassandro is available on Prime Video.
Source: Allocine
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
