After weeks of build-up, WWE Unreal has dropped on Netflix, but has it lived up to the hype?
First announced over WrestleMania weekend, Netflix’s newest pro wrestling docuseries promised fans a never-before-seen look at the inner workings of the biggest pro wrestling promotion in the world, complete with a peek into the writers’ room to potentially shatter any resemblance of kayfabe that is left. Given that this was an industry that was previously so protected, there were some concerns ahead of time as to what the series would reveal. Luckily for those fans, WWE Unreal doesn’t exactly pull the curtain all the way back as it instead offers a very polished performance with everyone involved very aware that the cameras are rolling.
Head of Creative and driving force Triple H kicks things off with the bold statement, “We’re going to lift the curtain. We are going to show you things you’ve never seen in this show.” Although the writers’ room has never been seen before, viewers familiar with the previous WWE documentaries will be aware of the revisionist history and reported drama behind the scenes is barely addressed. And of course, if any wrestler had a past history in AEW, this is promptly ignored.
Those unfamiliar with the wrestling world do get to see the real-life people behind the characters speak about their journey, including past names. The episode focusing on Chelsea Green’s journey to winning the Women’s US Championship is especially wholesome and the segment focusing on John Cena’s heel turn and alternate plans was fascinating, especially the major pivot that Kevin Owens could have ended the night as champion.
Of course, as this is WWE, the subtle as a Triple H sledgehammer shot promotions are very much at the forefront. Calendar graphics flash up throughout the series to remind fans that Raw and SmackDown is on every Monday and Friday, respectively along with constantly reminding fans of the magnitude of WrestleMania. A brief graphic during episode one would be fine, but no one is tuning in on episode 5, unfamiliar with what is going on.
Arguably, one of the most interesting elements of the show was not what was said but what was seen. Throughout the various writers’ room scenes, whiteboards give fascinating details of proposed matches that never came to be, such as Steve Austin refereeing a match between Bron Breakker and Drew McIntyre, and 2 ladder matches for the Intercontinental and United States Championships. However, there is barely any conflict in the room itself and everyone sees to be in agreement that everything has been perfect from inception to execution. Fans are aware that there were issues during this time of filming, such as Drew McIntyre’s stormout during the Royal Rumble, but these are brushed under the carpet where other series would be happy to address this. The infamous segment between Tiffany Stratton and Charlotte Flair sees Triple H briefly speak with Stratton backstage, but interviews with the stars themselves would have given the show much more fan connection and authenticity. Yet again, WWE does not want to tell viewers everything, despite promoting otherwise.
WWE Unreal – The Final Verdict
On paper, WWE Unreal could be a fascinating concept if it was given the warts-and-all treatment, or featured more of the behind-the-scenes drama that many who are familiar with what goes on behind the scenes are aware of. Sadly, the show is unlikely to create another boom period that F1 saw with Drive to Survive and those looking for new information will struggle to find enough to warrant the 5-episode runtime. Ironically, an industry filled with drama, suspense and unpredictability produced a very by-the-numbers show that was part 24 documentary, part typical WWE retrospective docuseries where history was written by the winners. Hardcore fans may pick up some nuggets of information, but will have to sit through the patronising videos that explain matches to those unfamiliar, who may also be at the risk of having their intelligence insulted.
Ultimately, if WWE wants to generate more fans, what they need to focus on is the week-to-week.
WWE Unreal is available to stream on Netflix now.
Featured image: Netflix
