Posted 2023-05-04

Movies to get you in the right track

Welcome to our blog, where we have curated a compelling lineup of bodybuilding movies to inspire and motivate you for some iron action. We will be focusing mostly on classic movies, which remain timeless and appealing to many who may have not yet seen them or would love to re-watch them, and documentaries.
 

Stay Hungry

Undoubtedly, Arnold Schwarzenegger, the renowned bodybuilder, will kick off the list. During the late 1970s, society craved for successful and physically robust role models, replacing the laid-back vibe of the 1960s. This period marked the peak of popularity for pumped-up narcissists in popular culture, with the rise of the colorful "New Hollywood" dominating the movie industry. Schwarzenegger, who had previously played minor roles since 1969, officially debuted in the film "Stay Hungry," earning a Golden Globe award for his performance. The movie, directed by Bob Reifelson, portrays Schwarzenegger's character as a young demigod, with the only flaw being a gap between his front teeth. His character, named Joe Santo in the film, not only captivates women with his physique but also plays country music on the violin and preaches a philosophy of living in the moment. The film follows his unlikely friendship with a young rich slacker, played by Jeff Bridges, and the millionaire's discovery of a non-conformist world of strength, youth, and righteousness within the bodybuilding community. The movie culminates in a surreal scene where nearly naked bodybuilders fill the city streets to the delight of everyday people, emphasizing the physicality and the philosophy of the bodybuilding world.

Muscle Beach Party

A musical film comedy from the popular 1960s series of beach party movies. Their heroes were cute teenagers living in the land of perpetual summer and fond of surfboarding on the waves. Frankie Avalon, a superstar of the pre-Hippie era, appeared in the title role. Whereas usually the antagonists of teenagers in such movies were adults, in "Muscles" it's bodybuilders. They are, however, slightly older than the surfers, walk in formation under the guidance of a trainer and generally embody the previous, post-war era. The sixties were a time of subtle young men, eternal adolescents, and healthy strong men were ridiculed as primitive savages. So the bodybuilders on the beach dressed up in ridiculously shiny swimming trunks and colored capes, like superhero capes. Though they overpower the surfers at first in a battle for the beach, they will be mocked at the end. However, these jock characters were played by the real bodybuilding stars of those years, including athlete and actor Peter Lupus (aka Rock Stevens). He is so badass that he pulls himself up on the skid of a flying helicopter. The movie is also interesting with its soundtrack - among others, here a 13-year-old Stevie Wonder appears on screen and sings for the first time.
 

Bigger, stronger, faster

More serioгs title comparing to the previous one and one of the most significant documentary on the bodybuilding industry delves into the careers of bodybuilders and the challenges they face. One of the most pressing issues highlighted in the film is the use of anabolic steroids, which by the end of the century had become impossible to ignore. The film reveals that "sculptors of their bodies" resort to various means to achieve incredible and seemingly impossible muscle proportions. While some bodybuilders and politicians blame steroids for their failures and illnesses, others defend their use. Chris Bell, the film's director and a former bodybuilder himself, seems to side with the latter. He believes that the harmful effects of such drugs are not fully proven, and using chemistry for cosmetic purposes is no worse than any other American doing so. The film raises a fundamental question about anabolics and the "bodybuilding" phenomenon, whether it is a side effect of the American way of life. The director contends that the American culture instills the idea of "being first" since childhood, driving people to resort to any means necessary to succeed and cheat, and then feeling guilty about it. The film features extensive conversations with athletes, lawyers, politicians, and even members of the director's family. Among the characters featured in the film are Bell's siblings, bodybuilders Stinky Dog and Mad Dog. Unfortunately, Mad Dog passed away after the film's release at the age of 37.
 

Generation Iron

"Generation Iron" is a documentary film that sheds light on modern-day bodybuilders who face the challenge of living up to the record set by the legendary Arnold Schwarzenegger, as depicted in the late 1970s documentary "Pumping Iron." The film explores the difficulties and nuances of preparing for the "Mr. Olympia" competition, which has seen many changes over the years but continues to be popular among bodybuilding enthusiasts. Through the eyes of professional bodybuilders Phil Heath and Jay Cutler, the film offers insights into the grueling training and preparations involved in the sport. The documentary adds a contemporary perspective to the legacy of Arnold Schwarzenegger, who brought bodybuilding to the forefront of popular culture and inspired a new generation of bodybuilders to pursue the sport.

Blood & Guts

The movie "Blood and Guts" features Dorian Yates, Leroy Davis and other bodybuilders, and provides insights into the grueling training and experiences of Dorian Yates, a six-time Mr. Olympia champion, whose massive muscle size revolutionized the sport and redefined the concept of a perfect physique. The documentary delves into the details of Yates' intense training and sheds light on the methods he used to attain his muscular build. This movie is a must-watch for anyone who wants to witness the training regimen of a true bodybuilder. Shot in black and white, the film creates a tense atmosphere and is set in an ordinary gym without any modern equipment or gadgets.
 

Conclusion 

In conclusion, the world of bodybuilding has inspired and fascinated people for decades, and these movies showcase the grit, determination, and passion of the sport. From classic films like "Stay Hungry" and "Muscle Beach Party" to modern documentaries like "Generation Iron" and "Blood & Guts," each movie offers a unique perspective on the sport of bodybuilding. Through the lens of these films, we gain a deeper understanding of the discipline and sacrifices required to achieve peak physical form, as well as the struggles and controversies that come with it. Whether you are a fan of the sport or simply looking for some inspiration to hit the gym, these movies are sure to motivate and captivate you. So, grab some popcorn, get comfortable, and let the iron action begin!