Pumping Iron: Special Edition

Let's get this straight,the opening scene does not show Arnold Schwarzenegger and Lou Ferrigno in a dance studio,it shows Arnold and Franco Columbu being given posing tips from a prolific ballerina.
This movie was shot in 1975 and follows several World class bodybuilders preparing for the Mr.Olympia contest and also the best amateur bodybuilders preparing for the Mr.Universe,both of which were held in Pretoria,South Africa.
This is without doubt a very entertaining piece of work,although not entirely a "documentary" as many scenes were re-jigged to create more drama,and certain scenes were scripted,however,this is very engaging.Arnold comes across as witty,charming,intelligent,but also arrogant,calculating,controlling and downright wicked.Witness as he psyches out Lou Ferrigno at breakfast on the morning of the contest,and also how he discusses his best friend Franco to the interviewer.
The training scenes are great,the banter between the bodybuilders is high-spirited and the contest scenes are well shot.
All in all a very interesting and entertaining film even if you know nothing about bodybuilding.A classic.

Great dvd to own. I bought the Region 1 version a few years ago and just purched this version now. 1977 independent documentary/movie staring 5 time Mr. Olympia winner Arnold Schwarzenegger as he competed for his 6th title. I believe he was only in competition training for 6 months before making this.

Arnie, Lou Ferrigno (The Hulk), and Mattie Ferrigno pumping iron in a gymn, talking about bodybuilding. A very good documentary, very focused and to the point. At one point in fact, Lou Ferrigno and Arnie end up in a dance studio learning ballet to perform "showing" their bodies in competition.

Great if you like documentaries and/or bodybuilding and how it was done in the 70's.

Arnold was a famous man in the world of bodybuilding but this documentary took him to a new level, it took him to the national and international stage making him a name around the globe.
Pumping Iron doesn't just focus on Arnold, it also takes you into the lives of amatuers and some of Arnold's competition, like the Incredible Hulk Lou Ferringo.
It gives you a look into their lives, what drives them to want to compete, what makes them want to get bigger and stronger, and what it was which attracted them to the sport.

Overall: Pumping Iron is a great movie. Arnold comes across as a mentor who teaches confidence and infact makes you realise that only you can do it.
Pumping Iron educates, inspires and entertains.
Must Watch

Excellent documentary. Whilst quite serious is very funny too and shows you the real Arnold. Perfect if u want insipiration to go to the gym!