by Shane Conto, Staff Writer
The world of professional wrestling would not be the same without Mildred Burke’s contributions and influence, yet many people (even wrestling fans) probably don’t know her name. Even in 2025, women are not treated on equal footing as the men, and still fight every week to get even a fraction of the airtime. But back in the 1930s and 40s, Burke was one of the true stars of the industry, even when it was illegal for two women to wrestle in some of the highest profile states. In Queen of the Ring,writer/director Ash Avildsen places a spotlight on Burke and the seismic shifts she made in the world of professional wrestling.
The film struggles with some of the pitfalls of the biopic genre. Its story takes place over the course of many years, and you can tell that certain plot threads get a bit too rushed and glossed over (including a whole story line with Burke and her stepson). There are moments where the film must explain the inner workings of professional wrestling, which is a tad clunky. A few lampshading moments are distracting as well.
But the story is engrossing, and keepings you engaged for the two-hour-and-10-minute runtime. Burke (played in the film by Emily Bett Rickards) is an inspiring figure — she was a single mother who inspired the country to get behind women’s wrestling. Queen of the Ring has some well-constructed conflicts, especially with Burke’s abusive and jealous husband, wrestler Billy Wolfe (Josh Lucas), as well as her rival in the ring, June Byers (Kailey Farmer). This all builds up to a perfectly constructed and thrilling showdown for the perfect punctuation to Burke’s story.
With its propulsive pacing, Avildsen brings plenty of personality to this film. For one that soars past the two-hour mark, Queen of the Ring is not slow, and music plays an essential part in crafting its tone. The use of guitar and other sounds give the movie a Southern twang, with a little bit of country and blues. A few of the songs might be anachronistic, but they match the tone well.
Cinematographer Andrew Strahorn helps craft a look and vibe that is completely of the period, — the film has the feel of an older film at that. The costuming and production design are engrossing. Avildsen even throws in radio newscasts that give this film the old-timey quality that it needs to capture the period.
But the wrestling is the most important piece in crafting an authentic film. Avildsen shoots the action well, and it feels credible in the moves and performances. One of the biggest reasons is the cast of real professional wrestlers in key roles, but the rest of the cast deliver too. The film is about professional wrestlers, and it works for both pro wrestling fans, as well as mainstream audiences. Plus, the film navigates the compelling territory-based structure of the business back then.
But the key to this film sticking to the landing is the aforementioned climactic match. Burke/Byers delivers in such a thrilling and impactful way. Both Rickards and Farmer come to play, selling every ounce of drama, emotion, and physicality in stride. The music, the camerawork, and the choreography all come together as effectively as possible. Like the industry itself, it is all about storytelling and “the build.” Avildsen nails it.
But Avildsen’s work is not the only standout. This cast elevates this film in so many essential ways. Rickards is charismatic as heck, and making us feel every joyful moment, triumph, bump, and struggle. This is a star-making performance. Burke was a pioneering force in wrestling, and Rickards delivers that type of presence.
Lucas brings the veteran presence as a scumbag grifter and abuser. He doesn’t get many non-antagonistic roles anymore, but he sure sells these villains with earnest and committed performances. There are a few other veterans, like Walton Goggins, who makes the most of his screen time. One of the big standouts is Francesca Eastwood as wrestling legend Mae Young. Charismatic, alluring, confident, and expressive, Eastwood shows she has the talent to soar in the film world. Daredevil star Deborah Ann Woll does great work as the tragic Gladys Gillem. But props to Farmer, Toni Rossall (Toni Storm), Trinity Fatu (Naomi), Dr. Britt Baker, and others, who bring their professional wrestling talents to this film, delivering real authenticity.
For professional wrestling fans, Queen of the Ring is a must-see, as it honors the history of the industry, and one of the most influential pioneers of the business. But Burke’s story is compelling enough for anyone, not just the diehards, as it navigates important themes of sexism and greed. There is plenty of personality, vigor, and guts in Avildsen’s film, with a stellar cast making it necessary viewing.
Rating: Liked It
Queen of the Ring is currently playing in theaters
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