ABOUT THE GENRE

Lucha libre is a wrestling tradition originating in Mexico that emphasizes both intellectual and physical excellence. Among its defining characteristics is the central role of the mask as the visible face of an idealized character. El Santo, who was the originator of the tradition, wore a distinctive silver mask that is the most recognizable icon in all of lucha libre. Santo was buried in his mask, and his son then adopted the mask to continue its legacy. The modern tradition of lucha libre was spearheaded by Mil Mascaras, whose name translates as "the man of a thousand masks". In addition to designing all of his different masks, he is best known worldwide for his development of innovative and highly acrobatic aerial wrestling maneuvers.

During the golden age of lucha libre, the "Big 3" of the luchadores were Santo, Mil Mascaras, and Blue Demon. They were among the biggest celebrities in Mexico and other Spanish-speaking countries, and they became known throughout the rest of the world for their 100+ feature films produced during the late 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s. The following 25 years saw the passing of the original Santo and Blue Demon and an end to the series of films for which they and Mil Mascaras became legendary figures. Today lucha libre wrestling has become an international popular phenomenon that has created a renewed interest in the classic lucha films. ACADEMY OF DOOM is a new film, starring Mil Mascaras, that celebrates the characteristics that made the classic films so endearing to many generations of fans.