Hollywood lore is littered with tales of famous actors who went off the rails. It’s an industry which encourages egos and nurtures narcissism. The curse of celebrity can be a high price to pay for becoming a film star. David Arquette came through in the same generation as the likes of Leonardo DiCaprio and Matthew McConaughey, cut his chops in indie cinema, made his name through the Scream movies and found fame after marrying Courtney Cox. He then decided he wanted to be a wrestler….
In 2000, Arquette was controversially ‘awarded’ the World Championship Wrestling (WCW) World Heavyweight Championship. Seen by almost everyone as a publicity stunt, it was a move which saw him reviled within the wrestling community. This irks Arquette, who is a lifelong fan. When the chance arrives, he decides to give it another shot. His quest is documented by David Darg and Price James in their new film You Cannot Kill David Arquette.
If you’re expecting You Cannot Kill David Arquette to be some slick Hollywood puff-piece, then you’re in for one heck of a shock. Whatever you think about his obsession, there’s no faulting Arquette in terms of commitment or what he’s prepared to do for redemption. There are things in it which I’m surprised he signed off on, especially when you consider his wife is a producer. Brutal, bloody and bananas, You Cannot Kill David Arquette is a documentary like no other.
You Cannot Kill David Arquette screened at Fantasia Festival.
