True story: my dad used to call me “the Pebble” because I could do the People’s Eyebrow like Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. He watches wrestling — me, not so much. I don’t know if it’s the theatrics, the overly masculine silhouettes, or the thought of wrestling being fake, but it’s never really been up my alley. Fast forward to today, and in my hands lays the screener for Mr. Reset and the Society of Turnbuckle & Bone. It’s the dream of wrestling hopeful Vinny “Power Punch” Pacifico to make it big in the industry, and willing to do whatever it takes, he inserts himself into the ring for that chance.
A secret society manipulates pro wrestling from the shadows, luring hopefuls with promises of fame. Trapped in a world of illusion and psychological trials, they face intense sacrifice for a shot at glory.
Mr. Reset and the Society of Turnbuckle & Bone, IMDB
Set in Central Florida, Power Punch (played by former Ring of Honor talent Vinny Pacifico) eagerly joins a masked society — with his wife as collateral — that promises fame and fortune. The problem is that he’s almost too eager, clouding his judgement and causing his loss in the ring during his “initiation.” Presented as a sort of broadcast by the leader of this secret society, Mr. Reset tells the story not only of Vinny’s search for stardom, but other indie wrestlers sacrificed to the game.
The word I would use most to describe Mr. Reset is “stylized.” Like pro wrestling itself, this film is packed with stark black/white/red imagery, bold text across the screen, slow-motion action shots, and even moments of comedic (yet unnerving) relief. Mr. Reset isn’t so much about wrestling as it is about showmanship. The fact that Vinny and so many others are willing to sacrifice their livelihoods and their loved ones for just a chance is deeply disturbing.
In a way, Mr. Reset‘s stylistic choices match perfectly with its horror elements. The same way that poisonous plants and animals look especially vibrant, the pomp and circumstance of the Turnbuckle & Bone Society — plaster masks and all — should have been Vinny’s first clue as to what this society was really about. How much are you willing to give up to further your career? Can money and power cloud your judgement? Are the spotlights and shine of a Championship belt all worth it? As Vinny soon finds out, it really isn’t. Mr. Reset isn’t going to make you shield your eyes or cower in fear; instead, it will lure you in with sound effects and flashy elements all while showing you what happens when you make a deal with a hidden society.
Mr. Reset and The Society of Turnbuckle & Bone was, to a horror fan like me who doesn’t watch wrestling, actually pretty entertaining — which makes sense because wrestling in itself is entertainment. On the surface, it’s glamorized, but below that, we’re all just fighting to survive. Whether you think pro wrestling is real or not, Mr. Reset is a glimpse into their world — from working your way up the ranks, to contracts with big industry giants, and eventually, the breakdown of body, mind, and family. A treat for wrestling fans and something new for horror lovers, Mr. Reset is just over an hour of high-energy passion for both genres.
Mr. Reset and The Society of Turnbuckle & Bone is available to stream now on Apple TV, Google Play, and YouTube TV.
