Back in the day, I used to be all about the warriors and drama of the WWF. While I didn't always pay close attention to the story lines between scharacters, I was known to appreciate an entertaining and sweaty ballet of strength and skill as much as the next 8-year-old growing up in the 80s. If I think back, I can still recall the days when The Ultimate Warrior was an enigmatic beast of the mat, and, that historic match when Jake the Snake's pet boa constrictor, Damien, was theatrically crushed beneath Earthquake's mighty girth. Those were some wild times. Hell, that was way before Hulk Hogan went off the deep end.
In wrestling entertainment news that has nothing to do with my taking a trip down memory lane, it's been announced, today, that WWE, HBO and the Bill Simmons Media Group are tag-teaming to produce ANDRE THE GIANT, a full-length feature centered on "The Eight Wonder of the World" and pro wrestling legend of the same name. With Jason Hehir set to direct, ANDRE THE GIANT will explore the life and career of the 7-foot-4, 500 lb. behemoth, born Andre Roussimoff in Grenoble, France circa 1946.
As a wrestling icon and actor, Andre the Giant has been a person of interest ever since joining the World Wrestling Federation under Vince McMahon Sr. in 1973. Andre's unique voice and size set him apart from other acts, while his athletic capabilities consistantly astounded those who were fortunate enough to see the man in action. Throughout his career, Andre battled some of the most legendary contributors to the game, including personas like Randy "Macho Man" Savage, Jake "The Snake" Roberts, and of course, Hulk Hogan.
Oddly enough, the latest effort from WWE Studios is the straight-to-video animated sequel SURF'S UP 2: WAVEMANIA. Yeah, I'm not quite sure what to make of that either.