Barry Blaustein, best known to pro wrestling fans for his documentary Beyond The Mat, has died at 71 years old.
News broke of Blaustein’s death on May 12 following the director’s battles with Parkinson’s Disease and pancreatic cancer. In addition to his famous documentary on the World Wrestling Federation, Blaustein directed the 2005 movie The Ringer and the 2010 comedy Peep World.
Blaustien also worked on the hit TV show Saturday Night Live, along with movies such as Coming to America, Boomerang and The Nitty Professor.
Barry Blaustein Described “Beyond The Mat” As “The Favorite Thing He Had Ever Done”
Released in 1999, Beyond The Mat remains one of the greatest pro wrestling documentaries of all time more than 25 years on from its original release. Recorded during the height of The Attitude Era, the documentary was directed, written and produced by Blaustein, who was given behind-the-scenes access to the biggest pro wrestling company in the world.
Mick Foley, Terry Funk, Jake “The Snake” Roberts, and New Jack are some of the notable names featured. Foley is at the height of his career as World Champion, Terry Funk is contemplating retirement, and Roberts is battling addiction.
The most infamous part of the film focuses on the “I Quit” match between The Rock and Mick Foley at the 1999 Royal Rumble. Foley is hit in the head with a steel chair repeatedly as his family watches on in horror. Foley’s wife and children, who are extremely distressed by what took place, are seen leaving the crowd before the match is over.
After reviewing the film, Vince McMahon wanted nothing to do with it and removed all advertising from WWE TV. Taking advantage of the blowback, Blaustein changed the tagline of the documentary to “The Movie Vince McMahon Didn’t Want You to See!”
The film was well-received by critics and remains essential viewing for all wrestling fans looking for an insight into WWE during one of its most successful eras.
