Pumping Iron

release year: 1978
genre: bodybuilding documentary
viewing setting: home DVD, 2/26/04 and 11/9/03

synopsis: This is a somewhat-doctored documentary of some contestants in the 1975 Mr. Olympia bodybuilding contest.

impressions: Very motivational, not because we all want to be that big, but because it shows us what it takes to be serious in the gym. If I had a fraction of the drive that these guys had, I could put on a ton of muscle. Anyway, much of this movie details how competitors play mind games with each other, especially Arnold psyching out Lou Ferrigno...classic. As I said above, it was doctored a bit - Arnold even admits that in one of the featurettes. He also admits that he used steroids - note that this is before they were illegal, so anyone who says that Arnold shouldn't get to be governor of California because he used illegal substances 20 years ago needs to be stepped on.

something this movie has that no other movie has: A dozen gigantic guys sitting at a restaurant eating inhuman amounts of food.

acting: Not really applicable, but it should be noted that Arnold showed off his personality in this movie, helping bring legitimacy and acceptance to his sport.

final word: Good for inspiration via insights into the mentality of a winner.

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