Actors: Hulk Hogan, Joan Severance, Tommy ‘Tiny’ Lister
Directors: Thomas J. Wright
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: IMAGE ENTERTAINMENT
DVD Release Date: April 1, 2014
Run Time: 94 minutes
Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars
When I was a kid growing up in the 80’s I was head over heels into wrestling! I couldn’t get enough. I remember when this film came out in 1989 and I saw my favorite wrestler Hulk Hogan “act” in a movie. I couldn’t have been more excited. What I enjoyed most is that I was as excited and entertained watching this today as I was when I was a kid. Hulk Hogan was and still is the man and here the guy is doing what he did best, wrestle, and he kicks some major ass. This film also kicked off a nice little wrestling career for Tommy ‘Tiny’ Lister as he continued playing the role of Zeus even outside the film. If you are a fan of 80’s wrestling and films, in general, then I would definitely recommend checking this out!
Official Premise: When world wrestling champion Rip Thomas (WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan) refuses to join a competing network, an evil executive creates a new program, “The Battle of the Tough Guys,” where rules don’t exist and men engage in an all-out brawl for money. After a murdering ex-convict by the name of Zeus (Tommy ‘Tiny’ Lister, The Dark Knight) comes out on top as the toughest man, an ultimate title match with Rip is the TV network’s best chance for big ratings. But when Rip refuses the challenge and his brother is roughed-up as a consequence, the world champion has no choice but to teach Zeus a lesson in a final ‘No Holds Barred’ fight to the finish.
This is the first time that “No Holds Barred” has ever been released on high-definition Blu-ray. The 1080p shows its age a bit but is still quite impressive. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 is a real treat as well from every power slam to audience member cheering sounds great. There are some Blu-ray exclusive special features as well, which are a great companion to the film. There is a “No Holds Barred Tag Team Steel Cage Match” from 12/27/1989 featuring Zeus and Randy Savage with Sensational Sherri vs. Hulk Hogan and Brutus Beefcake. There is also a “Summer Slam Tag Team Match” from 8/28/1989 featuring Zeus and Randy Savage with Sensational Sherri vs. Hulk Hogan and Brutus Beefcake with Miss Elizabeth. If you are a wrestling fan, these are a must way. Lastly there is also a Photo Gallery included.