...All the Marbles (also known as The California Dolls) is a gritty, entertaining 1981 comedy-drama directed by Robert Aldrich in his final film. It follows the underdog journey of a small-time women's tag-team wrestling duo called the California Dolls—Iris (Vicki Frederick) and Molly (Laurene Landon)—managed by the fast-talking, win-at-all-costs Harry Sears (Peter Falk). As they barnstorm across the American Midwest in rundown motels and small arenas, facing shady promoters like Eddie Cisco (Burt Young), humiliating gigs (including a mud-wrestling match), and constant financial struggles, the team fights for dignity, respect, and a shot at the big-time women's tag team championship in Reno. Blending real pro-wrestling authenticity with heartfelt drama, humor, and exploitation elements, the film showcases strong female leads, backstage chaos, and a cameo from NFL legend "Mean" Joe Greene. It's an underrated 80s gem celebrating underdogs, showbiz hustle, and the raw energy of women's wrestling in a pre-WWE era.
Release Dates
Format
Date
Theatrical Release
October 16, 1981
VHS
Early 1980s (exact date unknown; common home video format post-theatrical)
LaserDisc (CED)
1980s (RCA VideoDisc release noted)
DVD
August 4, 2009 (Warner Archive Collection) / November 11, 2009 (MGM reissue)
Blu-ray
Not officially released (as of current data; available via on-demand or imports in some regions)
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