A Preview of ‘Heels’

Written by John Edward Betancourt

Something that we don’t talk about all that often in regard to professional wrestling, is the sheer fact that it has managed to touch the lives of so many. Which is a statement, that undoubtedly raised some eyebrows, because there are some folks who do not like wrestling in the slightest. But the fact that there are people who don’t enjoy it, speaks to that particular point. Because somehow, some way, people are aware of wrestling, and they know what it is about and have some kind of emotional opinion regarding it and that’s just incredible. Because it takes something special to touch people in that manner. But this sport (yes, it is a sport) has managed to pull off this particular feat and enjoy strength and longevity because of it. 

However, what’s truly fascinating about wrestling, is the sheer fact that it has yet to become a true fixture in everyday pop culture. Because one would think that its long and winding and engrossing storylines would allow for writers and directors everywhere to build upon its wonder. But alas, most wrestling movies and shows are relegated to comedy and parody and/or dark explorations of the trappings of fame. Or the good ones are short lived, in nature. But it would seem that in this era of peak television, where we crave new ideas, the time has finally arrived for wrestling to enjoy its day in the pop culture spotlight, courtesy of a brand-new television series. For on Sunday, August 15, 2021, STARZ will debut a dynamic series entitled, Heels, and well… make no mistake about it… this is a quality show about independent wrestling. 

One where the Duffy Wrestling League has captivated the town of Duffy, Georgia to the point where the city shuts down when it is time for the wrestlers in this league to throw down and well… that wonderfully unique setting for this series leads to a bevy of wonder and awe, courtesy of some fascinating elements. Such as the fact that this series takes wrestling seriously from the get-go, by showing us how much work goes into preparing a competition both physically and mentally and by taking the time to play wrestling straight and show us the commitment that goes into it, the series then blossoms into so much more. Because this is also a show about family and the difficulties that come with working with them and navigating their needs and wants and dreams in the workplace and everyday life.

Speaking of dreams by the way, well that notion is what allows for this particular series to shine. Because it offers up a powerful exploration on the power of dreams, and why we chase them and hold onto them tight and that leads to some powerful moments in this show for certain. The kind that are genuinely relatable since a lot of what drives our heroes and villains in this story, drives us in our hunt for the dream. Such as how some of us chase it for fame and glory, while some of us see the dream as our ticket out of our current situation, while others… chase it because it is truly their calling and nothing else in this life will ever satisfy them and having that present here… makes this a genuinely incredible story. One that takes us on quite the emotional ride as the warriors of the DWL fight to taste their dream and truth be told this is hands down, the most realistic examination of the grand pursuit of dreams to ever grace the small screen.

However, none of this works without a cast that sell both the majesty of wrestling and the ups and downs that come with chasing our dreams and thankfully, that’s present here too. Because the entire cast from top to bottom is top notch, with veterans Stephen Amell and Mary McCormack and Chris Bauer leading the charge and they’re complimented nicely by the dynamic Alexander Ludwig, Alison Luff, Kelli Berglund and James Harrison and Allen Maldonado and Mike O’Malley and well, their fine performances and everything else we’ve discussed today make this an absolutely brilliant and flawless series. One that blends humor and drama and emotion and philosophy together to create living poetry, and truly… this writer cannot wait to dive deep into every incredible episode with all of you in the weeks to come as we journey through the world of wrestling in a series that finally gives this sport the respect, it is due.

‘Heels’ premieres on STARZ on August 15, 2021, at 9 p.m. EST.

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