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| Review by Atlee Greene |
Executive Produced by Chris Bell
Co- Produceed by Christopher Carey,
Dallas Page, Steve Yu
Written & Directed by Steve Yu
Starring Jake the Snake Roberts, Diamond Dallas Page,
Scott Hall, Stone Cold Steve Austin, Chris Jericho,
Ted Dibiase, Adam "Edge" Copeland,
Gene Okerlund, Jim Duggan, Jim Ross, Jerry Mires
When you think of those who epitomize professional wrestling in the mid 80’s to early 90’s, the three most prominent names are Hulk Hogan, Ultimate Warrior, and Macho Man Randy Savage. The electricity of the Warrior, the fever of The Madness, and the power of Hulkamania have left an indelible imprint on pop culture and resonate with the most novice spectator.
Jake “the Snake” Roberts fits into a pantheon of his own, and rides on an advanced placement level of performance that has not only captivated a worldwide audience but his skill has earned him the utmost respect of his colleagues.
Even if you never watched a single episode of WWF television (now WWE), chances are you know Roberts by two distinct characteristics: his signature maneuver, the DDT, and a giant python named Damien in a big green bag hoisted over his shoulder.
The Resurrection of Jake the Snake is directed by Steve Yu and chronicles Jake as he moves into the home of Diamond Dallas Page in 2012 and begins his new full time job of reclaiming his life and family by battling his demons that have haunted him his entire life.
The rise and seemingly never-ending fall of Jake Roberts is well-documented and known to even the most casual wrestling pundit.
It was surprising to hear that Roberts agreed to be filmed to such a personal extent and allow his vulnerability to be shown since he has voiced his disdain over the years for how he was portrayed in the 1999 film,
Beyond the Mat. Roberts feels he was presented as the only wrestler with drug problems.
Through this document process, Director Steve Yu highlighted that pointing to the fame and adulation that comes with performing in front of sold-out arenas is oversimplifying the origin of Roberts’ addiction. A father’s desire for an infinite amount of more, more, more without a single ounce of adoration or support left his son with an empty heart and a feeling of worthlessness.
The question of “why am I so easy to cast aside?” from seemingly the one person who is supposed to love him unconditionally can make anyone feel they are defective beyond repair. Family, the catalyst for his trip towards rock bottom, has turned into his guiding light towards recovery.
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