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"The Wrestler" (CD single) (by Bruce Springsteen, Soundtrack)

common sense media says

Melancholy but pitch-perfect soundtrack song OK for teens.

parents & educators say
See 2 reviews | Review it

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that although this song might be a little too heavy for younger kids, teens will probably appreciate its emotional quality. It's a sad song that explores painful, grown-up feelings, but offers a different perspective on life that some kids are ready to discuss.

Positive messages: The single sets a heavy tone that might be too much for younger kids. "Have you ever seen a one-legged dog making its way down the street? If you've ever seen a one-legged dog then you've seen me."
Violence: Not applicable.
Sex: Not applicable.
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on "The Wrestler" (CD single)

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about whether performers and artists sacrifice a part of themselves to entertain the public. Do you think audiences like to see someone suffer? Why is that? Do you think reality television and professional wrestling are examples of voyeurism? Can you name any other form of entertainment that might be exploitative?

What's the story?

What's the story?
Mickey Rourke personally requested that Bruce Springsteen write a song for Rourke's movie The Wrestler. Springsteen not only penned THE WRESTLER for the film (it appears in trailers and through the film's closing credits) but he also gave it to the filmmakers for free. Now that the movie has attracted critical acclaim, The Boss's single is garnering its own praise for its evocative lyrics and emotional rawness. Sung from the point of view of a down-on-his-luck, two-bit entertainer, the song compares the man's feelings of inadequacy to a "one-trick pony," a "one-legged dog," and a "one-armed man."

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
Springsteen supplies the perfect lyrical punch with this painfully sentimental ballad. His New Jersey blue-collar roots on full display, The Boss serenades the masses with a song about lost hope, dreams deferred, and victimization. Heavy stuff -- but not necessarily inappropriate for kids. The lyrics evoke some graphic imagery, "You've seen me, but I can make you smile when the blood it hits the floor," that you may not want tweens to hear. And while the film is not appropriate for kids, the song's emotional honesty is just, well, sad. For those who like hearing a sad song now and then, this one should be OK for 12 and older.

Music themes & details

Music Details
Released on: January 27, 2009
Label: Koch Records
Genre: Soundtrack
This review was written by Jacqueline Rupp
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

NDC
kid, 11 years old
2
 
I love this song
I think this is a great song and I think it is appropriate for anyone.
Flag as inappropriate 
was this review useful?
helped me decide (3) | had useful details (1) | read my mind (1)
BestPicture1996
teen, 16 years old
8
 
Springsteen's incredible vocals pick up for odd lyrics
Good song all together
Flag as inappropriate 
was this review useful?
helped me decide (1) | had useful details (1) | read my mind (3)

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ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
OFF: Not age appropriate for kids this age
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