Pumping Iron - 1977 - 7/10
Overlooking Stay Hungry (1976), this is where Arnold started his ascent.
While supposedly a documentary on bodybuilding, one gets the feeling several of the participants are “acting” in front of the camera. This seems especially true with Schwarzenegger and Ken Waller.
Most of this is hugely entertaining, watching the men train for the upcoming Mr. Universe and Mr. Olympia.
One does get a feel for the more innocent rivals.
Then there are the strategies, diets, trash talk, behind the scenes.
Arnold already radiates charisma, though it would be another five years before he blew up to the masses.