Ep 2. The Montreal Screwjob

The Montreal Screwjob is the second episode of the first season of the popular wrestling documentary series, Dark Side of the Ring. This episode explores the controversial events surrounding the main event of WWE's (then WWF) Survivor Series pay-per-view in Montreal, Quebec, in November of 1997.

The episode delves deep into the heated rivalry between WWE Chairman Vince McMahon and top superstar Bret Hart, which had been brewing for several years. Hart, a Canadian and iconic wrestler, had signed a contract with McMahon's bitter rival, World Championship Wrestling (WCW), and was set to leave the WWF after Survivor Series. However, Hart was also the reigning WWF Champion at the time and was due to defend his title against Shawn Michaels, his long-time on-screen rival.

Despite assurances from McMahon that he would not lose the match in his home country of Canada, Hart remained wary and skeptical of McMahon's intentions. During the match, Michaels placed Hart in his signature submission move, the Sharpshooter. McMahon then ordered the ring bell to be rung, signaling Hart's submission and the end of the match, despite Hart never actually having given up. This surprise ending, which became known as the Montreal Screwjob, sent shockwaves through the wrestling world and sparked immense controversy.

Featuring interviews with several key figures involved in the incident, including Hart himself and Michaels, as well as McMahon and referee Earl Hebner, the episode provides an insider's look into the event and the fallout that ensued. The Montreal Screwjob not only marked the end of Hart's WWF career, but also changed the course of professional wrestling forever.

The episode also explores the emotional toll that the Screwjob took on Hart, who was blindsided by the decision and felt betrayed by McMahon. The incident cemented Hart's status as a wrestling legend and sparked a heated debate among fans over whether or not the Screwjob was a legitimate decision or simply a scripted event.

In addition to the main story, the episode also covers other notable events that took place during the Survivor Series event, including the debut of wrestler The Rock and the backstage reaction to the Screwjob. The episode serves as both a fascinating historical retrospective of professional wrestling and a sobering reminder of the unpredictable and often cutthroat nature of the industry.

Overall, The Montreal Screwjob is a must-watch episode of Dark Side of the Ring for wrestling fans and non-fans alike. It offers a sobering glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world of professional wrestling and the decisions and drama that go into crafting the sport's storylines and rivalries. Whether you're a die-hard Bret Hart fan or simply interested in the inner workings of the wrestling industry, this episode is sure to leave a lasting impact.