Here's a rarity—a true sports story about an athlete overcoming overwhelming odds that is neither cliché-ridden nor overly sentimental. Director Kaplan's debut feature-length film is a well-crafted, well-acted depiction of the early struggles and successes of deaf wrestler Matt "The Hammer" Hamill, from his boyhood up through his first attempt at a college national championship in 1997, before he became a professional mixed martial artist under the promotion of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). The film focuses as much on Hamill's struggles with romance, friendships, and fitting in at home and in school as it does on his rise as a high school and collegiate wrestler. Subtitled sign language and deleted audio re-create the way Hamill (portrayed by deaf actor Russell Harvard) senses his world and communicates with others. This clever technique gives the film welcomed authenticity and helps viewers empathize with the likable Hamill. VERDICT A strong script, convincing performances (especially by Shoshannah Stern as Hamill's girlfriend), and a refreshing lack of schmaltz make this a rewarding and entertaining release deserving of a wider audience than just the deaf community and wrestling fans.—Douglas King, Univ. of South Carolina Lib., Columbia