Bigger Stronger Faster

Bigger Stronger Faster*, released in 2008, is a riveting exploration of the culture of performance-enhancing drug use, in respect to American high-stakes sports and the broader societal obsession with winning. Leading this deeply personal yet far-reaching documentary is Chris Bell, a fitness and bodybuilding enthusiast, and a member of a family embedded within the culture of performance training.

The movie gets its name from the three prime aspects that the American Dream symbolizes secularly: Bigger relates to standing out, Stronger represents resilience, and Faster alludes to rapid success. The title also quite succinctly wraps up the key objectives of these athletes who are so frequently misunderstood and segregated.

Bell dives into this world with a clear premise: to uncover the truths behind steroid use, its implications, its stigma, and why it remains so attractive despite its evident risks. He threads his narrative using his own life story and intertwines it with the broader, more universal themes of the American dream and defying limitations.

Bell's intimate approach chooses his own family as the focal point to investigate this topic, as both his brothers, Mike and Mark, have used anabolic steroids in the past to enhance their performance in bodybuilding. Using this personal lens, it provides the viewers a real-life glimpse into the impacts and influences of these drugs within a user's immediate inner circle.

While conversing about some grave subjects, the documentary weaves in humor to lighten the mood, making it more approachable and digestible. This also helps Chris Bell effectively break the ice on such a complex issue, one that is generally met with barricaded beliefs and bias.

Throughout the documentary, Chris Bell raises several questions that prompt in-depth overviews about performance-enhancing drugs. He queries about why some enhancers are allowed, yet many others aren’t, touching upon controversial subjects like steroid law enforcement. He interviews sportswriters, psychologists, and medical professionals, along with a string of well-known athletes and coaches who have had experiences with steroids.

By making the audience question their views, Bell manages to subtly evoke doubts about the extreme societal pressures to maintain a 'strong' physique and to constantly be in the pursuit of 'more.' He incites a conversation about the perplexities surrounding the concept of level playing fields in sports and the authentic potential of human achievement without chemical assistance.

Bigger Stronger Faster* also focuses on the thin line between medically prescribed steroids and ‘doping.’ The movie offers a rich historical flash-back, which reflects the progression of the steroids issue and how it grew to become such a controversial topic. It lays bare the inconsistencies and the hypocrisy pervading accepted practices of 'enhancement,' enhancing its clarity by using real instances and use cases.

Another significant aspect that the film exhibits is the media's role in perpetuating stereotypes and creating unhealthy expectations among the masses. The critical, mindful dissection of the media's portrayal of perfection is particularly resonant and is apt to stay with viewers much after they've finished watching the film.

The film is a lot more than a chronicle about steroids. At its core, it’s a moving examination of self-image, identity, and what it means to be a 'man' in contemporary America. It provides some honest, yet uncomfortable insights into the significance of appearance, strength, and success in modern culture, which is bound to make viewers ponder deeply.

While the movie doesn't claim to have all the answers, it provokes thought and initiates a dialog about the societal pressures linked with performance and physical appearance. Throughout the documentary, Chris Bell reveals his own conflicting views, adding a further layer of authenticity and relatability to the narrative.

With stunning cinematography, comprehensive research, heartfelt storytelling, the documentary holds the viewer captive. Bigger Stronger Faster* is an incredible film that delves into a theme not widely covered in mainstream media. It's a must-see for anyone interested in sports, sociology, or anyone with the simply curious mind to understand what drives people to make certain choices. It is not just a sports documentary but a unique American tale of family, competition, self-worth, and the desperate human yearning for glory.