Pumping Iron documentary pumps up the testosterone

November 9, 11:28 AMSan Jose Movie ExaminerDanny Derakhshan

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Pumping Iron movie poster.
White Mountain Films

Arnold Schwarzenegger is known for a few things: Being a bodybuilder, being a Terminator, and being the Governor of California(sometimes called the Governator, a combination of the words Terminator and Governor).

In 1977, a small documentary brought the art of bodybuilding to the world, making physical fitness a standard thereafter. Arnold Schwarzenegger, Mr. Olympia of five times is chronicled as we follow the late 20's bodybuilder as he competes for his sixth title.

Pumping Iron is the documentary that brought stardom to Arnold. There are other notable figures in there such as Franco Columbu, Lou Ferrigno and Mike Katz. Some bodybuilders used anabolic steroids to compete but back in the 70's it wasn't illegal yet. The film showcases the golden age of bodybuilding before steroid "mass monsters" became the rage(no pun intended).

There are lots of comedic efforts as these guys play mind games on each other, and try to make the documentary more interesting. Here are a few funny moments:

-"Can I sign up here? I want to start gaining some..uh...muscle." - Arnold Schwarzenegger to Gold's Gym employee Ken Waller

-"I'm coming in the gym, I'm coming when i am at home, I'm coming on the stage." - Arnold talking about how working out his muscles feels better than sex.

-"Hey look, they made a statue of Mike! (points at the hippopotamus), that is a good one." - Arnold at an amusement park.

-"Lou is good...but he's a child....at the end of the day, I am his father!" - Arnold talking about beating Lou in the competition.