Cassandro: Embracing Identity and Defying Conformity

In the colorful world of Lucha Libre, where strength, tradition, and masculinity reign supreme, Cassandro shines as a beacon of resilience, self-discovery, and unwavering authenticity. This film distributed by Amazon Studios and directed by Robert Ross Williams, takes us on a whirlwind journey through the life of Saúl “Cassandro” Armendáriz (Gael García Bernal), an openly gay Mexican-American luchador (wrestler) who dared to break free from the mold in the 1980s.

The film opens in the gritty arenas of border-town wrestling, where Saúl, known back then as “El Topo” (The Mole), fights in relative obscurity. His dreams of success seem distant until he discovers a path less traveled: the world of “exóticos,” flamboyant wrestlers who defy convention by fighting/performing in drag. 

Exóticos are male luchadores who appropriate feminine aspects in their Lucha Libre personas, challenging the sexist macho culture that characterizes this sport and rejecting the social standards of masculinity. Although exóticos may not be necessarily gay, they often are, incorporating their LGBTQ+ identities into who they are in the Lucha Libre ring.

Saúl’s reinvention into Cassandro, an exótico wrestler, involves not only a change in appearance but also an unapologetic embrace of his gay identity in the wrestling ring, something that he had been hesitant to do for obvious reasons. The film’s portrayal of Saúl’s transformation into Cassandro, a name inspired by a telenovela Saúl was a fan of, is a powerful testament to the importance of embracing one’s true self, even in the face of adversity.

Set against the backdrop of the 1980s – a decade marked by cultural conservatism and the AIDS epidemic – Cassandro attempts to capture the era’s atmosphere. However, the film falls somewhat short in fully showcasing the importance of the time. While it touches upon the challenges of LGBTQ+ acceptance during that era, it could have delved deeper into the socio-political climate, allowing viewers to better understand the hurdles Cassandro faced in real life.

Lucha Libre is a sport intertwined with performance art where the fierce athleticism in the ring can overshadow the theatricality that surrounds it. It’s a world where masks, mystique, and machismo collide, making Cassandro’s unapologetic presence there all the more groundbreaking. Showcasing the real struggles this luchador faced when he became Cassandro without trying to sugar-coat his journey to stardom, would have been, in our humble opinion, a more powerful statement. 

Nevertheless, this doesn’t detract from the film’s overall impact. Despite the lack of rawness in the adaptation of Saúl’s life (all the information about what he really went through is an internet search away), the film manages to capture the essence of this unique individual who did what he did for love. Love for his mother, love for his friends, love for his partner…and love for Lucha Libre.

It is, in fact, Saúl’s relationships with those around him that add depth to the narrative. The film beautifully captures the bond between Saúl and his mother, Yocasta (Perla de la Rosa) – a source of unwavering support and love. Her understanding of his sexuality and her belief in his dreams provide a touching backdrop to Saúl’s journey to stardom. It’s a stark juxtaposition to the strained and almost non-existent relationship he has with his father, who is absent from Saúl’s life largely due to his conservative beliefs.

His secret romance with Gerardo (Raúl Castillo) – known in the Lucha Libre world as “El Comandante” – illustrates the complexities of love and identity in a world that demands conformity. This particular subplot adds depth to Saúl’s character and explores the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ folks in maintaining relationships in a society that often forces them into secrecy.

One of the film’s standout moments is the pivotal match against “El Hijo del Santo,” where Cassandro’s character arc reaches its zenith. The film masterfully captures the essence of Lucha Libre as a blend of athleticism, theatrics, and storytelling. Cassandro’s decision to momentarily challenge tradition and then gracefully accept defeat showcases his evolution as a wrestler and a person.

With an award-worthy performance, Gael García Bernal unapologetically embodies Cassandro and everything he represents, making it a sheer delight to watch. Moreover, the visual presentation of the film is a feast for the eyes, with top-notch production values and a rich palette of colors. The camerawork skillfully captures beautiful angles and shots, seamlessly complementing the vibrant world of Lucha Libre.

Saul Armendáriz, through Cassandro, became an emblem of resilience and authenticity, leaving an indelible mark on the world of Lucha Libre and beyond. His legacy as the “Liberace of Lucha Libre” continues to inspire and uplift those who dare to be their most authentic selves.

Cassandro is an emotionally resonant film that celebrates that legacy. It’s a film that in its core, tells a poignant story of growth and self-discovery. A film that highlights the importance of representation and the impact one person can have in challenging stereotypes. Cassandro is a story of triumph, a reminder that in the ring of life, being true to oneself can be the greatest victory.

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Cassandro is now streaming on Prime Video. Follow us on X and Instagram for all queer stuff!