“Over the Top” is a 1987 American sports drama film starring Sylvester Stallone. It was produced and directed by Menahem Golan, and its screenplay was written by Stirling Silliphant and Stallone. The main character, Lincoln Hawk/Hawks, played by Stallone, is a long-haul truck driver who tries to win back his estranged son, Michael, while becoming a champion arm wrestler. With its fast-paced plot filled with action and adventure, “Over the Top” is sure to keep you entertained from beginning to end. Whether you’re a fan of sports movies or just looking for an exciting adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat all the way through, be sure to check out this classic movie!
Lincoln Hawk is a truck driver who also arm wrestles for extra cash. Hawk’s estranged wife Christina, who is suffering from heart disease, asks that Hawk pick up their young son Michael from military school and develop a relationship with him; Hawk had left them ten years earlier. Michael’s wealthy grandfather, Christina’s father, Jason Cutler, believes that Hawk has no right to be in his grandson’s life. Michael distrusts Hawk initially and treats him with contempt at every turn. Despite this initial hostility however, over time it becomes clear that the two men have something important in common: they are both fathers looking to connect with their children. The strength of Lincoln Hawks’ character is revealed as he continuously tries to make amends for the mistakes he made in the past and establishes a meaningful relationship with his now reluctant but ultimately forgiving grandson.
After Michael and Christina’s disastrous trip across the country, they finally make it to the hospital just in time for Christina to die from complications during surgery. Michael blames Hawk for delaying his arrival, and leaves immediately for his grandfather’s estate. An attempt to get Michael back from his grandfather results in Hawk being arrested when he resorts to ramraiding the gated mansion. In jail, Michael visits Hawk and forgives him, but says he feels safer living with his grandfather. As a condition of charges being dropped, Hawk is obliged to sign over custody of Michael to Cutler.
Hawk leaves to compete in the World Armwrestling Championship in Las Vegas, hoping to start his own trucking company with the prize of $100,000 in cash and a $250,000 Volvo White Tractor Truck. Despite his underdog status, he manages to place third out of twenty-four competitors and win the respect of many along the way. Meanwhile, Michael learns Cutler had driven his parents apart and had been intercepting and hiding letters Hawk had regularly written to him. Stunned by his grandfather’s deceptions, Michael steals a pickup truck and drives to Las Vegas to find Hawk. When he finally finds him, they share an emotional reunion before going their separate ways once again.
In the end, Hawk’s resilience and determination paid off – he managed to win a prestigious tournament and secure his place as one of the top professional wrestlers in the world. Michael’s support was crucial in helping him achieve this success, and their new-found friendship will be invaluable as they continue to pursue their dreams.
