Sometimes, from seemingly out of nowhere, a documentary really takes me by surprise. I’m really not a fan of bodybuilding and quite frankly can’t fathom why people would want to do it. Back in 1977 Pumping Iron first shed light on the world of bodybuilding and was the first glimpse the world had of a certain Arnold Schwarzenegger. Vlad Yudin’s documentary Generation Iron brings us up to the present, and it’s a fascinating journey into the minds and lives of those who compete in the sport.
Generation Iron follows seven of the world’s best bodybuilders as they prepare and compete for the coveted Mr Olympia title, in particular Phil Heath, Kai Greene, Branch Warren and Dennis Wolf. Narrated by Mickey Rourke, Yudin follows them through the highs and lows of their everyday lives, giving an insight of what brought them into the sport and why they do it. As we reach the end of their stories the film culminates in the Mr Olympia show itself.
Yudin gives us a fascinating insight into the lives of professional bodybuilders and just how much being the best means to them. Skilfully made, I found myself routing for them as the big day comes around. Generation Iron doesn’t exactly dodge the unspoken issue of steroids, but it fails to delve too deeply into it. The lengths these athletes go to in order to be the best is impressive, and their sheer determination and commitment is admirable.
Don’t be put if by the subject matters, if you give Generation Iron the chance you’ll be duly rewarded.
Generation Iron is released on DVD by Signature Entertainment and availabe now.
