Critics Say 'Queen of the Ring' Fails to Capture Legacy of Wrestling Pioneer Mildred Burke

The film 'Queen of the Ring,' directed by Ash Avildsen, chronicles the life of Mildred Burke, the first million-dollar female athlete, portrayed by Emily Bett Rickards. Set against the backdrop of the 1940s when women's wrestling was illegal in many states, Mildred's journey from a diner worker to a pioneering champion highlights her struggle against societal norms and her partnership with promoter Billy Wolfe, played by Josh Lucas. While the film aims to celebrate Burke's legacy and resilience, critics note that it suffers from clichéd dialogue and shallow character development, undermining the significance of her achievements. Despite its flaws, the wrestling scenes are engaging, and the film sparks interest in Burke's story, which remains relatively unknown to many. Overall, while it pays tribute to a trailblazer in women's wrestling, the execution leaves much to be desired. 'Queen of the Ring' serves as both an inspirational tale and a reminder of the complexities within biographical storytelling.