The Bodybuilder and I

This is a fine Canadian documentary, shot in 2006, released theatrically in 2007 and available on DVD only since last week. It follows the travails of 59-year old bodybuilder competing for a 50-60 Masters competition. The documentary is helmed by his 30-year old son from a previous marriage who has unresolved abandonment issues. The personalities of the two men come through honestly and show signs of evolving nicely all through the film, which is also interesting in showing the Canadian (and American) bodybuilding scene among the older set, men who are willing to pay in time, effort and money for inclusion in that sport. I found the insights into the motivation of all the competitors absolutely fascinating. What makes this film especially enjoyable, beyond its subject, are the grace notes provided by the music, the photography and the editing, which would top many comparable or more expensive Canadian and American productions.