American Nightmare: Becoming Cody Rhodes

The documentary film "American Nightmare: Becoming Cody Rhodes" delves into the captivating journey of professional wrestler Cody Rhodes as he navigates the highs and lows of his career. Following his departure from the WWE, Rhodes is driven by a sense of determination and purpose, fueled by the unfulfilled ambition of his legendary father, "The American Dream" Dusty Rhodes. Cody Rhodes, born Cody Runnels, emerges as a multifaceted individual whose passion for wrestling is rooted in his family heritage. Growing up, he witnessed firsthand the charisma and charm of his father, a wrestling icon known for his unparalleled ability to connect with the audience. However, despite his father's storied legacy, Cody faces the daunting challenge of forging his own path, independent of his family's name. As the documentary explores Cody's decision to leave the WWE, it becomes clear that this wasn't an impulsive choice, but rather a calculated move driven by his desire for creative control and a sense of freedom that eluded him within the confines of the WWE. He yearns to break free from the constraints of predetermined storylines and scripted outcomes, opting instead for a more genuine, authentic experience that allows him to connect with his audience on a deeper level. Cody's journey takes him to various Independent Wrestling circuits, where he confronts the harsh realities of the business. He faces financial struggles, personal setbacks, and moments of self-doubt, yet he persists, driven by an unwavering commitment to his craft. As he takes on new challenges and forges alliances with like-minded wrestlers, Cody's resolve and resilience become apparent, traits that mirror the unyielding spirit of his father. Throughout the documentary, Cody's relationship with his father is a recurring theme, as he grapples with the weight of Dusty's legacy. He shares stories of their complicated bond, marked by both moments of warmth and intense friction. Despite Dusty's untimely passing, Cody's love and admiration for his father continue to serve as a driving force, propelling him towards his ultimate goal: becoming the WWE champion, a feat his father never achieved. Cody's return to the WWE is a pivotal moment in the documentary, as he makes his comeback to the world of professional wrestling. This marks a turning point in his career, as he navigates the treacherous landscape of the WWE, where loyalty is often tested and friendships can be fleeting. Undeterred, Cody seizes the opportunity to rewrite his own narrative, to establish a new identity that stands apart from his father's. As the journey unfolds, Cody evolves as a wrestler, refining his in-ring skills and developing a distinctive persona that transcends the shadow of his father's legend. With each step towards the WWE championship, he encounters unexpected adversaries and rivalries, forging alliances and testing his resolve. Cody's transformation from a disillusioned wrestler to a confident, driven champion is nothing short of remarkable. Ultimately, "American Nightmare: Becoming Cody Rhodes" is a testament to Cody's unwavering dedication to his craft. It showcases the struggles he faced, the triumphs he achieved, and the sacrifices he made in pursuit of his lifelong dream. This documentary offers an intimate look into the life of a wrestler, stripped of the glamour and pageantry that often shrouds the world of professional wrestling. Instead, "American Nightmare" presents a candid portrayal of Cody's journey, one that humanizes the man behind the mask and reminds us all that even in a world of fiction and fantasy, there's always a real person behind the story.