Ep 3. Forward, Together

In the third episode of Young Rock season 1 entitled "Forward, Together," we see Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson in his college years in 1990. After a brief recap of his high school years and his relationship with his football coach, we delve into his new life at the University of Miami.

Upon arriving at college, Dwayne immediately experiences culture shock as he is exposed to a diverse set of people and lifestyles. He struggles to fit in and make friends at first but is eventually taken under the wing of his roommate, Andre (played by Carlito Olivero).

Meanwhile, Dwayne's father, Rocky Johnson (played by Joseph Lee Anderson), is struggling in his wrestling career. He is offered a chance to join the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), but he must relocate his family to Pennsylvania. Dwayne's mother, Ata (played by Stacey Leilua), is reluctant to leave their home in Miami and leave her job, causing tension between her and Rocky.

As Dwayne tries to navigate college life, he also becomes interested in the world of professional wrestling, which he had previously scoffed at due to the negative connotations associated with it. He attends a wrestling match with his roommate and is instantly hooked.

In an effort to pursue his interest in wrestling, Dwayne seeks out his father's former opponent and mentor, The Iron Sheik (played by Brett Azar), for advice. Sheik advises Dwayne to stay true to himself and his roots and not fall into the temptations of fame and money in the wrestling world. This advice ultimately helps shape Dwayne's perspective on his future aspirations.

Throughout the episode, the theme of family and unity is emphasized. Dwayne struggles to find his place at college and in the world of wrestling, but he finds solace in his relationships with his father, mother, and roommate. There is a sense of mutual support and understanding between the characters, as they navigate their own personal struggles while also supporting each other.

"Forward, Together" is a heartfelt and relatable episode that highlights the challenges of discovering one's identity and pursuing one's passions amidst familial and societal pressures. It also sets up for future episodes as Dwayne begins to assert his own independent goals and dreams outside of his father's shadow.