WrestleMania XL: Behind the Curtain is the documentary we eagerly awaited from WWE.
Initially set to be released right after WrestleMania 40, it faced delays, but it’s finally here, revealing unprecedented behind-the-scenes moments and key decisions that led to Cody Rhodes vs. Roman Reigns for the WWE Undisputed title.
Let’s delve into the revelations and major pivots that led to one of WWE’s biggest main events in company history.
The Anticipation and Unveiling
The documentary unveils the pivotal shift that crafted the iconic Cody Rhodes vs. Roman Reigns main event at WrestleMania 40.
For fans who suspected there was a change in plans, you were correct.
The documentary brings to light several compelling details, one of the most notable being Triple H’s approach to creative storytelling and the collaboration that led to the pivot.
Triple H’s Strategic Vision
Triple H’s influence on WWE creativity is evident in this documentary.
He reveals that by October, the WrestleMania 40 card was already 80 percent complete. This foresight, contrasting with WWE’s recent practices of short-term, flexible storytelling, stands out as a return to long-term planning, akin to the golden days of the company.
According to Triple H, creative planning should be viewed as a GPS guiding them to a set destination.
This idea of having a final goal and mapping out the journey meticulously allowed for coherent and engaging storytelling, which has led to elevated fan interest and soaring ratings over the past few years.
The Rock’s Involvement and Cody’s Story
One of the most significant details in WrestleMania XL: Behind the Curtain is the involvement of The Rock.
Triple H and The Rock both contribute to different parts of the documentary. Early on, The Rock discloses the original plan of facing Reigns at WrestleMania 39, which fell through. The Rock would then tease the potential WrestleMania 40 match with Reigns on several platforms, including The Pat McAfee Show.
However, Cody Rhodes was highly over with fans following his loss at WrestleMania 39.
WWE had to rethink its strategy to capitalize on Cody’s momentum, and Triple H recalls discussing with Cody the course WWE was steering towards, acknowledging that Cody’s victory at the Royal Rumble was critical despite the planned pivot to The Rock vs. Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40.
The Pivotal Decisions and Fan Reactions
At this juncture, The Rock’s suggestion altered the course.
Dissatisfied with the backlash and endorsing fan sentiment favoring Cody, The Rock called for a change to give the fans what they wanted. This decision underscores WWE’s willingness to listen to its audience, a departure from its past practices.
With CM Punk sidelined due to the injury he suffered at the Royal Rumble, the creative team had new challenges and opportunities to navigate Cody on his journey, ensuring his narrative of “finishing the story” continued to resonate with the audience.
This situation highlighted WWE’s adaptability, at least in this particular scenario.
Cody’s Emotional Visuals and The Final Match
Cody’s emotional journey is poignantly captured in WrestleMania XL: Behind the Curtain.
From handing over his WrestleMania spot to The Rock to expressing his genuine need for fan support, these raw moments are one of the highlights. WWE’s focus on the emotions behind these developments showcases its mastery in presentation, especially when it comes to these type of behind-the-scenes glimpses.
The documentary leads us through the crescendo of WrestleMania 40’s key moments, including the unforgettable finish with Cody finally accomplishing his goal by pinning Reigns to win the title.
WWE’s Forward-Looking Strategy
The conclusion of the documentary teases potential future main events and the ongoing ramifications of these storylines, ensuring fans continuously remain engaged even with Rock and Reigns currently off of WWE television.
The intentional layering of storylines and introduction of future feuds like The Rock vs. Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 41 indicates an innovative approach to building future storylines.
Should You Watch It?
WrestleMania XL: Behind the Curtain not only reveals the intricate process behind WWE’s grand spectacle but also highlights the collaborative effort and strategic pivots necessary for delivering unforgettable moments.
The decision to change course, initiated by The Rock and supported by Triple H’s strategic vision, exemplifies WWE’s embrace of fan feedback and long-term success planning.
If you haven’t watched this documentary, it’s a must-see for any WWE enthusiast craving to understand the behind-the-scenes dynamics that shape WWE’s biggest events.
This chronicle of WrestleMania 40 serves as a testament to WWE’s evolution and its dedication to crafting resonant, emotion-driven stories.
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