You are here: Home>Tape Reviews>Faded Glory: The Von Erich Story
Where Wrestling's Regional History Lives! |
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-Madison Carter
This is the story of the ill-fated Von Erich family, almost all of whom died tragically before their time. Intercut with match and home video footage is an interview with Kevin Von Erich at his house, and an older interview with Fritz Von Erich. - The narrator is former World Class Championship Wrestling announcer Bill Mercer. - The documentary begins with stills and footage of a young Jack Adkisson, who was born in the small town of Jewett, Texas. A videotaped interview with Jack/Fritz Von Erich on his porch swing is shown, as he discusses his wrestling background. Texas had very little interest in collegiate wrestling, but S.M.U. offered a program, which Fritz would take part in. He meets his wife Doris, and has three children: Jackie Jr., Kevin and David. There is a tremendous amount of home movie footage of them, including ice skating, fishing and birthday parties. - A short music package of the early footage, which introduces the births of Kerry, Mike (who is very recognizable) and Chris. - Mercer talks about how stiff Fritz would be in the ring, and how scared other wrestlers were of him. Footage of the heel Fritz in the ring, fighting Bobo Brazil and several others. - Fritz never woke up without some part of his body hurting. He begins to talk about the difference in today's business and yesterday, but stays fairly vague. - The first tragedy strikes the family. While Fritz is away for a show, six-year old Jackie Jr. is accidentally electrocuted and subsequently drowns in the surrounding snow. Kevin, who was interviewed in length for the show as well, talks about his memories of the accident. All he can remember is when Fritz drove up, not knowing what happened. Fellow wrestler Gene Kiniski told him, and Fritz smashed his car's window out with his fist. - Some WCCW footage is shown, with the various brothers fighting The Fabulous Freebirds, The Dynamic Duo, and others. - Kevin's football career is discussed, and how he left it after two successive knee injuries. He decided to follow his father into the business of professional wrestling. Somewhat blurry footage of his debut match is shown. Fritz never wanted his boys in wrestling, but rather to go to college and other sports. More... |
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