Beyond the Mat

Name: Beyond the Mat
Released: 1999-10-22T00:00:00-04:00

R 1999 Documentary · 1h 42m

A heartfelt documentary focusing on the day-to-day lives of professional wrestlers, some on the rise, some on the wane, and others fighting for their lives.

Stream Beyond the Mat Now

ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN
From $3.49 per month

About Beyond the Mat

Beyond the Mat is a 1999 documentary directed by Barry W. Blaustein that pulls back the curtain on the world of professional wrestling. It primarily follows the lives of wrestlers such as Mick Foley, Terry Funk, and explores the inner workings of organizations like the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), and the rising Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW), while shedding light on the personal sacrifices and physical toll that the profession demands. The film offers a critical view of the industry, and its impact on the lives of those involved, providing a compelling and sometimes disturbing look at the realities behind the spectacle. From the independent circuits to the global stage, the film captures the dedication, and the cost, associated with pursuing a career in professional wrestling.

Movie Trailer

Beyond the Mat Trailer

Cast and Characters

Directed by Barry W. Blaustein, Beyond the Mat features a compelling cast including: Mick Foley, portraying himself as Cactus Jack/Mankind, showcasing the brutal reality of his wrestling persona. Terry Funk, also portraying himself, a wrestling veteran contemplating retirement while still delivering hardcore performances. Vince McMahon, as himself, the chairman of the WWF offering insights into the business side of wrestling. Aurelian Smith Jr. (Jake The Snake Roberts), again portraying himself, battling personal demons outside the ring and struggling to find his place. Jesse Ventura, portraying himself, providing commentary and perspective on the wrestling world. Noelle Foley, as herself, Mick Foley's daughter, offering a unique perspective on her father's career and the impact on their family life.

What people like about Beyond the Mat

Audiences and critics have praised Beyond the Mat for its unflinching honesty and access to the personal lives of its subjects. Many viewers were captivated by the raw portrayal of the wrestlers' physical and emotional struggles, appreciating the film's ability to humanize these larger-than-life figures. Some reviewers highlighted the film's critical examination of the wrestling industry, appreciating its willingness to address the ethical and moral questions surrounding the business. The film's intimate portrayal of the wrestlers' families and personal relationships also resonated with viewers, adding an emotional depth that is not often found in sports documentaries.

Where can you watch Beyond the Mat online?

VPN Streaming Option

How to stream with ExpressVPN

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is an app that encrypts your internet connection and masks your IP address, allowing you to stream securely and bypass restrictions.

Why Use a VPN for Streaming?

- Bypass Geo-Restrictions: Many streaming services are geographically restricted. If you’re traveling outside the U.S., a VPN can make it appear as if you’re still in the country, giving you access to your subscriptions.
- Avoid ISP Throttling: Your internet provider might slow down your connection during high-bandwidth activities like streaming. A VPN encrypts your activity, preventing your ISP from throttling your speeds and ensuring a smooth, buffer-free experience.
- Increase Privacy: A VPN protects your data on non-secure public Wi-Fi networks by creating an encrypted tunnel, safeguarding your personal information while you stream.

How to get started with ExpressVPN:

- Sign Up: Purchase an ExpressVPN subscription.
- Download: Install the ExpressVPN app on your device.
- Connect: Open the app and connect to a server in the U.S.
- Stream: Log in to your streaming service and enjoy watching your favorite shows securely!

$2.99 – $12.99 ExpressVPN

Suggested Movies

The Streamable uses the TMDb API but is not endorsed or certified by TMDb.

The Streamable uses JustWatch data but is not endorsed by JustWatch.

Watch Trailer

Movie Score

73%

Released

October 22, 1999

Director

Barry W. Blaustein

Cast

Mick Foley, Terry Funk, Vince McMahon, Aurelian Smith Jr., Jesse Ventura, Noelle Foley

Genre

Documentary

DIRECTV Cash Back

Offer Terms

Only valid for new DIRECTV STREAM subscribers.
Only valid once per household.
You must pay and maintain service for at least one month to be eligible.
Purchase must be completed on the DIRECTV STREAM website.
You’ll receive gift card 4-6 weeks after purchase (~2 weeks after your first month).
Cannot be combined with any other promotion and won’t be eligible if you try to use a coupon code or cash back from another site.

Sling TV Cash Back

Offer Terms

Only valid for new Sling TV subscribers to Sling Orange, Blue, or Sling Orange + Blue.
Only valid once per household.
You must pay and maintain service for at least one month to be eligible.
You must click from The Streamable and complete your purchase on the Sling TV website.
You’ll receive gift card 4-6 weeks after purchase (~2 weeks after your first month).
Cannot be combined with any other promotion and won’t be eligible if you try to use a coupon code or cash back from another site.

Hulu Live TV Cash Back

Offer Terms

Only valid for new Hulu Live TV subscribers.
Only valid once per household.
You must pay and maintain service for at least one month to be eligible.
You must click from The Streamable and complete your purchase on the Hulu Live TV website.
You’ll receive gift card 4-6 weeks after purchase (~2 weeks after your first month).
Cannot be combined with any other promotion and won’t be eligible if you try to use a coupon code or cash back from another site.