5. Muscles & Mayhem: An Unauthorized Story of American Gladiators
This Netflix original docuseries shows the highs and lows of “The American Gladiators” with aplomb. People of a certain age will enjoy being immersed inside the daily operation of these barbarians who “lived like rock stars” in every aspect of the phrase. Their rigors and victories are highlighted, but the series as a whole is a testament to things running their course, whether through mismanagement or due to the whims of pop culture. – Rusty Odom
4. Dear Mama
Anyone who knows me well knows that I’m a sucker for pretty much all things Tupac Shakur. As a kid in high school, I listened almost exclusively to rap, and I remember that, after my mom asked me why, I played 2pac for her. I can’t remember exactly what she said, but I do remember her mentioning that it was like poetry. I knew my mom was cool, but the fact that she would be open enough to really listen did something for me.
It’s fitting that several years later I would enjoy a telling of Shakur’s life story through the eyes of his family and friends, with a specific focus on the relationship between him and his mother. This series does a great job of examining the complicated existence of the Shakurs, and it doesn’t hold punches. If you’re a fan of that era of rap or 2pac himself, this is must-see television. And while you’re at it, give “Wu Tang: An American Saga” a look, too. Both are originals from Hulu. – RO
3. Welcome to Wrexham
“Welcome to Wrexham” is a constant reminder of what it is we love about sports. The series is an exploration of a community, its football club and the deep ties that exist between the two. Themes of tradition, family, love and passion are constant, with full episodes dedicated to the lives of individual players and fans. We get to really know this cast of characters and athletes while also getting a front-row seat to the exciting yet nerve-racking growth of Wrexham AFC. Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, the team’s owners, provide laughs throughout the series despite the challenges of growing a club that is in desperate need of quick success. Oh, there are plenty of exciting games, goals and celebrations, too, spanning the 15 episodes of its second season, which reminds us of why we love sports and, more importantly, the ones with whom we experience their peaks and valleys. – Matt Miller
2. Telemarketers
One of this year’s most talked-about docuseries is a 20-year journey of two telemarketers to uncover a massive yet not-so-surprising scam. This buddy comedy-style documentary, based largely on footage Sam Lipman-Stern collected in his seven years at Civic Development Group, gives us a front-row seat to the chaotic, drug-fueled world of CDG and the mission of Lipman-Stern and the jovial, embattled hero Patrick J. Pespas to uncover it all. It’s a gripping true-crime story brought to life by incredible citizen journalism that is exciting and nostalgic. It’s a real-life underdog story that reminds us that it’s never too late to do the right thing. – MM
1. Wrestlers
Simply put, no other piece of moving art in 2023 was as triumphant as “Wrestlers.”
The Netflix series was created by Greg Whiteley, who some may know from “Last Chance U” or “Cheer.” While both of those shows have dedicated followings, this is Whiteley’s best subject matter, even if it’s his most unlikely.
The show follows WWF/ECW veteran Al Snow and Ohio Valley Wrestling as Snow tries to keep the association afloat in a tough environment that has seen small operations like his either get squashed or swallowed up by corporate promotions.
It’s the ultimate underdog story, full of individuals who possess supreme charm and, in many cases, extraordinary talent. The drama behind the scenes is mesmerizing, and that carries over into the ring on a few unbelievably real occasions. It’s a business, but this program showcases the art that goes into the form in a way that has never been captured.
Displaying equal parts tough love and compassion, Snow switches hats throughout but remains the steady, cool head that keeps the train on the tracks. And wait until you meet HollyHood Haley J, the most charming human to fill a screen in some time. She knows who she is, who she’s been and where she wants to go. Her honesty is refreshing, and she possesses the tools to make it big in the squared-circle. Other standouts include Mike “Cash Flo” Walden and anti-hero Matt Jones (who purchased a majority share of OVC along with current Louisville, Kentucky, mayor Craig Greenburg; together, they pitched the series and ultimately made it happen).
It’s just impossible not to root for these beautifully persevering humans, and ever since the show aired on Netflix, each live show at the company’s arena has sold out. The final 15 minutes of the last episode hit the hardest, and as a bow is being wrapped around the season, you’ll be wiping away tears with a smile on your face. This is not a show about wrestling; it’s a show about hope. – RO
