Review of Pumping Iron (1977) by Rajneel S — 20 Jun 2009
While not strictly a capture of accurate real-life (most of the subjects in the film deliberately antagonized each other despite all being close friends), this insiders point of view of the world of professional body-building in the 1970's (featuring a pre-movie-actor Arnold Schwarzenegger in a rare, honest, personal perspective) offers fascinating and can't-take-your-eyes-off-it insight into a strange and elusive lifestyle that's part-inspirational and part-human-sideshow.
Voyeuristic, challenging, at times freakish, the pairing of four bodybuilders battling it out to be the champions of their sport makes for fascinating viewing and is only marred by a few dull spots and a need for even more candid and personal moments from the bodybuilder's lives (Schwarzenegger in particular).
You don't need to be a muscle-head or fitness junkie to enjoy this documentary - even those interested in underdogs, larger-than-life characters and freak shows will find something to love about these fascinating guys.
This review of Pumping Iron (1977) was written by Rajneel S on 20 Jun 2009.
Pumping Iron has generally received very positive reviews.
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