This talented but troubled star who first came to fame in '80s hits like 9 1/2 Weeks and Angel Heart, spectacularly fell from grace in an orgy of self-destruction. As an actor, he gained a trouble-maker reputation, often fighting with producers, showing up late to sets and not learning lines, raising hell, and turning down star-making lead roles. Rourke's acting career eventually became overshadowed by his personal life and career decisions. In 1991, Rourke decided to go back to his first love: boxing. During his boxing career, he suffered several injuries that resulted in a dramatic physical change. Too beaten-up to carry on boxing, Mickey tried to make a return to movies, but only found work in a succession of low budget, low quality flops. What was Rourke's problem? What personal demons drove him to sabotage his acting career, drawing him steadily down into his own private hell?
Mickey Rourke: Wrestling with Demons chronicles the star's extraordinary adventure through life, from his nightmare childhood, broken marriages, arrests, and brain damage to a suicidal visit to a New York Church, the death of his brother in his arms, and to his Academy award nomination for The Wrestler. Written with passion, insight and expertise by respected show business reporter, Sandro Monetti, this is a very human and compelling story.
