Missing Link [Shoot Interview]
The Good
There have been few careers quite like that of Dewey Robertson aka The Missing Link. Here is a guy who was a classic cleanie for the first decade-plus of his career, he worked in the middle of the card and had a few shots near the top in Toronto, but lacked that something special to go to the next level. Then in an attempt to reinvent himself as a Mongolian, he was turned into the fur and makeup-wearing Missing Link who did not speak and worked a madman gimmick. Link hit new territories (WCCW, UWF and the WWF) and enjoyed success that he never had before. That story in and of itself is interesting. Then there is the story behind the scenes as the transformation happened, so did new addictions to alcohol, marijuana and steroids. The Link's amazing peak late in his career was followed by an incredible fall that left him a broken man. While that part of the story is not entirely unusual, it is intriguing through this bizarre character's eyes. Sadly, the Link was in his final years at this point as cancer (which he attributed to his substance abuse) took his life.
The Bad
If his ghost writer had not been sitting with him, this interview would have been riddled with mistakes and some key parts left out. Even with that editorial presence, Dewey Robertson says a great number of things that will make you scratch your head. Some of his claims seem astonishing such as him being a dark horse for an NWA title run in the 1970s, putting over Ken Mantell as the real genius of Mid-South and World Class (he certainly had a role, but he's never been labeled a great booker by his peers) and claiming that the whole WWE roster is now using and abusing steroids. Robertson is an interesting fellow and his life story is amazing, but he certainly has some warped perspectives and memories.
The Rating: ***
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Tributes: Remembering Some of the World's Greatest Wrestlers
Author, Ghost Writer, Editor: Dave Meltzer
Publisher: Winding Stair Press
Released: 10/01
The Good
An excellent look at a handful of deceased wrestlers that are edited and somewhat shortened versions of his WON obits. This is Dave Meltzer's strong suit because he knows things, understands things and is good at explaining things. You get a number of people from the 1950s through modern times. I would think that even the casual fan could enjoy this as I know a couple who've read it and enjoyed it. Meltzer is great at digging up anecdotes and putting a person's legacy into a proper perspective. An enjoyable read from pro-wrestling's preeminent journalist and critic.
The Bad
Obviously there are a few off-facts (from what I've heard, but none stood out to me). The stories are kind of condensed and some might not like that. I really can't point much fault at this, it is what is and probably the best non-autobiographical wrestling book there is. I know a lot of people knock Dave's writing and this is much more cleaned up than the run-on sentences laded grammatical errors, but it still has that Meltzer feel. If you do not like WON, than perhaps you might not like this.
The Rating: *****
Author, Ghost Writer, Editor: Dave Meltzer
Publisher: Winding Stair Press
Released: 10/01
The Good
An excellent look at a handful of deceased wrestlers that are edited and somewhat shortened versions of his WON obits. This is Dave Meltzer's strong suit because he knows things, understands things and is good at explaining things. You get a number of people from the 1950s through modern times. I would think that even the casual fan could enjoy this as I know a couple who've read it and enjoyed it. Meltzer is great at digging up anecdotes and putting a person's legacy into a proper perspective. An enjoyable read from pro-wrestling's preeminent journalist and critic.
The Bad
Obviously there are a few off-facts (from what I've heard, but none stood out to me). The stories are kind of condensed and some might not like that. I really can't point much fault at this, it is what is and probably the best non-autobiographical wrestling book there is. I know a lot of people knock Dave's writing and this is much more cleaned up than the run-on sentences laded grammatical errors, but it still has that Meltzer feel. If you do not like WON, than perhaps you might not like this.
The Rating: *****
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
WWE Timeline - 1983 - Don Muraco
The Good
The "Timeline of the WWE" is a tremendous concept that if executed properly could give historians and fans some different perspective. This series could go over 25 parts, assuming they go into the current product, but it seems as though they'll probably hold off on the last decade (although I could be way off on that). Don Muraco is a solid interview with all the honesty, experience and knowledge that you'd want in a concept shoot such as this. He talks bluntly about the Jimmy Snuka "murder" incident, gives good insight to many of the stars of that time period and touches on psychology a bit. This was a great interview and you can really see the great potential in this series, although like the Guest Booker series, it still has a few problems to work out.
The Bad
Although the "Timeline" concept is excellent, this highlighted some of the potential problems. One, Don Muraco had worked for years prior to and after 1984 and so information was often skewed. Two, Muraco is a pretty honest on shoot interviews, but he was simply not an office person, so he was ignorant to much of office goings-on. Three, trying piece together a logical narrative meant heavy editing and the chopped up product felt anything but flowing.
The Rating: ***3/4
The Good
The "Timeline of the WWE" is a tremendous concept that if executed properly could give historians and fans some different perspective. This series could go over 25 parts, assuming they go into the current product, but it seems as though they'll probably hold off on the last decade (although I could be way off on that). Don Muraco is a solid interview with all the honesty, experience and knowledge that you'd want in a concept shoot such as this. He talks bluntly about the Jimmy Snuka "murder" incident, gives good insight to many of the stars of that time period and touches on psychology a bit. This was a great interview and you can really see the great potential in this series, although like the Guest Booker series, it still has a few problems to work out.
The Bad
Although the "Timeline" concept is excellent, this highlighted some of the potential problems. One, Don Muraco had worked for years prior to and after 1984 and so information was often skewed. Two, Muraco is a pretty honest on shoot interviews, but he was simply not an office person, so he was ignorant to much of office goings-on. Three, trying piece together a logical narrative meant heavy editing and the chopped up product felt anything but flowing.
The Rating: ***3/4
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
B. Brian Blair [RF Video Shoot Interview]
The Good
Brian Blair has managed to have some fringe relevance after retiring due to his political career, infamous altercation with his son that got some news and more infamously his role as the Iron Sheik's favorite target. I feared this shoot interview would not give enough time to the noteworthy parts of his career to focus on those parts, but luckily it did not. I've heard a few shorter interviews with him and new that he'd be a candidate for a solid interview with good stories and perspective, but this was much better than I anticipated. Blair is really an excellent storyteller and he shares some of his classic like Paul Orndorff biting off Tony Atlas's ear that you may have heard before. Brian Blair comes across as the most likable and honest guy as he describes himself being bullied as a child, weeping over misfortunes in his life and he gets choked up and emotional about a few individuals. He just seems like genuine nice guy and you wonder how the Iron Sheik took to hating him the way he does.
The Bad
If you wanted to here Brian Blair cut a promo on the Sheik, you're not exactly going to get that. Does he have choice words for him? Yes. Does he hold back? Not really and actually makes a pretty touchy accusation. I imagine many people, considering Brian Blair's recent news items, would be disappointed by the calm, cool and collected responses that Blair gives. Many people might disagree with his thoughts on a variety of topics, but even if you think he probably was not the tough guy he makes himself out to be or if you disagree with idea of a flat-tax, you'd probably still see him as well-spoken and thoughtful.
The Rating: ****1/4
The Good
Brian Blair has managed to have some fringe relevance after retiring due to his political career, infamous altercation with his son that got some news and more infamously his role as the Iron Sheik's favorite target. I feared this shoot interview would not give enough time to the noteworthy parts of his career to focus on those parts, but luckily it did not. I've heard a few shorter interviews with him and new that he'd be a candidate for a solid interview with good stories and perspective, but this was much better than I anticipated. Blair is really an excellent storyteller and he shares some of his classic like Paul Orndorff biting off Tony Atlas's ear that you may have heard before. Brian Blair comes across as the most likable and honest guy as he describes himself being bullied as a child, weeping over misfortunes in his life and he gets choked up and emotional about a few individuals. He just seems like genuine nice guy and you wonder how the Iron Sheik took to hating him the way he does.
The Bad
If you wanted to here Brian Blair cut a promo on the Sheik, you're not exactly going to get that. Does he have choice words for him? Yes. Does he hold back? Not really and actually makes a pretty touchy accusation. I imagine many people, considering Brian Blair's recent news items, would be disappointed by the calm, cool and collected responses that Blair gives. Many people might disagree with his thoughts on a variety of topics, but even if you think he probably was not the tough guy he makes himself out to be or if you disagree with idea of a flat-tax, you'd probably still see him as well-spoken and thoughtful.
The Rating: ****1/4
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Triple H: King of Kings - There is Only One
Distributor: WWE Home Video
Release Date: 3/08
The Good
It seems like this familiar “best of” series is going to continue after the successes of DVD sets by Ric Flair, The Undertaker and Steve Austin. Instead of putting together a time-consuming documentary, a handful of excellent matches can be paired up with an interview or two by the featured superstar to produce something that can sell. Triple H talks about his career, highlighted by explaining his relationship with Shawn Michaels, the success of Evolution and Batista and lastly his rivalry with John Cena and Edge.
The Bad
Triple H, complete with his lame leather jacket, is the only one talking here and that provides a perspective that is not without baggage. Much of Triple H's career is filled with great angles and great matches, but it is not perfect. Although Evolution was mostly successful with getting Batista over, the same angle done with Randy Orton earlier was rushed and unsuccessful. Triple H talks about putting Batista over for months, which seems like his way of saying how generous he is. Next is his feud with Ric Flair, which was not as great as Triple H would make it seem like. There is also the discussion whether or not Triple H is past his prime and whether or not he will pass the torch gracefully.
The Rating: ***
Distributor: WWE Home Video
Release Date: 3/08
The Good
It seems like this familiar “best of” series is going to continue after the successes of DVD sets by Ric Flair, The Undertaker and Steve Austin. Instead of putting together a time-consuming documentary, a handful of excellent matches can be paired up with an interview or two by the featured superstar to produce something that can sell. Triple H talks about his career, highlighted by explaining his relationship with Shawn Michaels, the success of Evolution and Batista and lastly his rivalry with John Cena and Edge.
The Bad
Triple H, complete with his lame leather jacket, is the only one talking here and that provides a perspective that is not without baggage. Much of Triple H's career is filled with great angles and great matches, but it is not perfect. Although Evolution was mostly successful with getting Batista over, the same angle done with Randy Orton earlier was rushed and unsuccessful. Triple H talks about putting Batista over for months, which seems like his way of saying how generous he is. Next is his feud with Ric Flair, which was not as great as Triple H would make it seem like. There is also the discussion whether or not Triple H is past his prime and whether or not he will pass the torch gracefully.
The Rating: ***
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Bill DeMott [RF Video Shoot Interview]
The Good
Bill DeMott had an unusual career as a long-time overseas foreigner turned WCW midcarder who worked his way up that ladder, failed to do so in the WWF, but found a niche as a trainer. His journey is a great little story in a way. I found his reflections on working Puerto Rico and Japan to be interesting as they were largely positive, despite the infamy associated with both (in Japan, he worked for the tiny, short-lived W*ings garbage group). He was pretty matter of fact about his less-than-stellar years as Hugh Morrus is WCW. Although he achieved remarkable success later on, DeMott's rollercoaster career seems to largely be on the mid-level of the card. When he eventually gets to the Invasion angle, he grows more upset. While he seems to understand and is able to explain the shortcomings of the feud, he clearly lost a chance to get a good slot in the WWF. Instead, his career pattered off and ended. Then came Tough Enough 3. Bill DeMott is clearly passionate about working with youngsters, developing talent and creating a learning environment for aspiring WWF/WWE superstars. As a key trainer in Deep South Wrestling, WWE's short-lived secondary development territory, DeMott was able to help people like The Miz, MVP and a handful of other young talent that are climbing the WWE ladder now. He still seems embittered by the sudden closing of DSW and wants to be involved in the business, but has few options now.
The Bad
When I original got my hands on this, I thought it was the Highspots shoot that looked like (according to the trailer) the raging promo of a bitter cast-off. It was not that. Although, that Highspots shoot wasn't necessarily that either. Bill DeMott is clearly angry, or at the least disappointed, in a number of people. He seems frustrated that as he was peaking in WCW, he was dealt a tough hand with the company dying and his role did not work out in the WWF. Bill DeMott seems at peace with some of the unfortunate events of his career and even admits that he was a bit over-the-top in the aforementioned shoot interview. While those bitter and angry shoot interviews are not always the most palpable, they can be pretty bland if you expect that and do not get it.
The Rating: ***1/4
The Good
Bill DeMott had an unusual career as a long-time overseas foreigner turned WCW midcarder who worked his way up that ladder, failed to do so in the WWF, but found a niche as a trainer. His journey is a great little story in a way. I found his reflections on working Puerto Rico and Japan to be interesting as they were largely positive, despite the infamy associated with both (in Japan, he worked for the tiny, short-lived W*ings garbage group). He was pretty matter of fact about his less-than-stellar years as Hugh Morrus is WCW. Although he achieved remarkable success later on, DeMott's rollercoaster career seems to largely be on the mid-level of the card. When he eventually gets to the Invasion angle, he grows more upset. While he seems to understand and is able to explain the shortcomings of the feud, he clearly lost a chance to get a good slot in the WWF. Instead, his career pattered off and ended. Then came Tough Enough 3. Bill DeMott is clearly passionate about working with youngsters, developing talent and creating a learning environment for aspiring WWF/WWE superstars. As a key trainer in Deep South Wrestling, WWE's short-lived secondary development territory, DeMott was able to help people like The Miz, MVP and a handful of other young talent that are climbing the WWE ladder now. He still seems embittered by the sudden closing of DSW and wants to be involved in the business, but has few options now.
The Bad
When I original got my hands on this, I thought it was the Highspots shoot that looked like (according to the trailer) the raging promo of a bitter cast-off. It was not that. Although, that Highspots shoot wasn't necessarily that either. Bill DeMott is clearly angry, or at the least disappointed, in a number of people. He seems frustrated that as he was peaking in WCW, he was dealt a tough hand with the company dying and his role did not work out in the WWF. Bill DeMott seems at peace with some of the unfortunate events of his career and even admits that he was a bit over-the-top in the aforementioned shoot interview. While those bitter and angry shoot interviews are not always the most palpable, they can be pretty bland if you expect that and do not get it.
The Rating: ***1/4
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Pat Tanaka [SmartMarkVideo Shoot Interview]
The Good
Sometimes you just get the feeling that shoot interview is going to be excellent with no real reason. Pat Tanaka had a somewhat uneventful career and I had no real reason to believe that he'd have some keen insight or hilarious road stories because I'd never heard him in a shoot or really mentioned for that matter. However, he did tour around a lot, he was the son of the legendary Duke Keomuka, he broke in over in New Japan and he and partner Paul Diamond were pretty successful for a time as Badd Company. What I did not expect was that Pat Tanaka was almost a carbon copy of his one-time best friend Marty Jannetty. He was a hellion who was more into wine, women and song than working out, developing mic skills or trying to get over with the office. Pat Tanaka was by his own admission, a "f**k up." He was the son of a legend, the nephew of a legend and in one of the hottest territories in the world, but screwed around too much to gain much from those advantages. He was a fun-loving guy who spent much of his time in Japan getting in trouble for excessive partying. He was a big ribber who tried to stay even with Curt Hennig and the Nasty Boys. He was a small guy in a big man's business, who was a great natural worker, but let poor choices stop him again and again. This was an excellent look into Tanaka's career and he seemed frank about himself and loved to put people over. Although brief, his recollections of his time in Japan are priceless. Obviously, there are not many gaijin who got as entrenched as he did with the native talent, so getting some perspective on them is unique. I found this to be a really positive and interesting shoot interview and it did not disappoint me.
The Bad
How many "what a fantastic guy," "he was a great worker" and "no comments" can you sit through. Although this did not reach Jimmy Snuka levels of vagueness, Tanaka certainly spent plenty of time dishing out these generic statements. The "no comment" crew was obviously intriguing: Scott Hall, Tojo Yamamoto and a few others. Obviously, the juicy details behind those were such that he just did not want to share them. This was not free of burials though. He knocked Konnan as a "nobody," Shinya Hashimoto as a "piece of sh*t" who took dangerous liberties in the ring and even his partner Paul Diamond as an endless complainer who enjoyed making moves on other guy's girlfriends/wives/etc. If Tanaka would go on about those people and not others, you have to wonder what the story is behind his "no comment" statements. The biggest question mark in this is the almost complete absence of discussing his Orient Express run in the WWF. He talks about getting the call, teaming with Akio Sato (mostly beforehand) and his departure (due to Diamond stabbing him in the back), but that is about it. No Mr. Fuji, no Rockers feud, no Sato being replaced by Kato (Diamond), it was just missing here.
The Rating: ****
The Good
Sometimes you just get the feeling that shoot interview is going to be excellent with no real reason. Pat Tanaka had a somewhat uneventful career and I had no real reason to believe that he'd have some keen insight or hilarious road stories because I'd never heard him in a shoot or really mentioned for that matter. However, he did tour around a lot, he was the son of the legendary Duke Keomuka, he broke in over in New Japan and he and partner Paul Diamond were pretty successful for a time as Badd Company. What I did not expect was that Pat Tanaka was almost a carbon copy of his one-time best friend Marty Jannetty. He was a hellion who was more into wine, women and song than working out, developing mic skills or trying to get over with the office. Pat Tanaka was by his own admission, a "f**k up." He was the son of a legend, the nephew of a legend and in one of the hottest territories in the world, but screwed around too much to gain much from those advantages. He was a fun-loving guy who spent much of his time in Japan getting in trouble for excessive partying. He was a big ribber who tried to stay even with Curt Hennig and the Nasty Boys. He was a small guy in a big man's business, who was a great natural worker, but let poor choices stop him again and again. This was an excellent look into Tanaka's career and he seemed frank about himself and loved to put people over. Although brief, his recollections of his time in Japan are priceless. Obviously, there are not many gaijin who got as entrenched as he did with the native talent, so getting some perspective on them is unique. I found this to be a really positive and interesting shoot interview and it did not disappoint me.
The Bad
How many "what a fantastic guy," "he was a great worker" and "no comments" can you sit through. Although this did not reach Jimmy Snuka levels of vagueness, Tanaka certainly spent plenty of time dishing out these generic statements. The "no comment" crew was obviously intriguing: Scott Hall, Tojo Yamamoto and a few others. Obviously, the juicy details behind those were such that he just did not want to share them. This was not free of burials though. He knocked Konnan as a "nobody," Shinya Hashimoto as a "piece of sh*t" who took dangerous liberties in the ring and even his partner Paul Diamond as an endless complainer who enjoyed making moves on other guy's girlfriends/wives/etc. If Tanaka would go on about those people and not others, you have to wonder what the story is behind his "no comment" statements. The biggest question mark in this is the almost complete absence of discussing his Orient Express run in the WWF. He talks about getting the call, teaming with Akio Sato (mostly beforehand) and his departure (due to Diamond stabbing him in the back), but that is about it. No Mr. Fuji, no Rockers feud, no Sato being replaced by Kato (Diamond), it was just missing here.
The Rating: ****
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