Gods of Football: The Making of the 2009 Calendar

Gods of Football: The Making of the 2009 Calendar is a 2009 documentary film offering a backstage, in-depth and candid exploration of what goes on behind the scenes during the production of the celebrated annual Gods of Football calendar. This alluring film highlights the heroic journey of handsome and athletic performing stars such as Travis Burns, Dan Conn, Luke Grant and Chris A. Johnson.

On the surface, Gods of Football: The Making of the 2009 Calendar tells the tale of creating a simple calendar that puts the athletic prowess and physical form of football players on display. However, the film dives deeper than just the superficial layers of muscle and physique. It captures the camaraderie shared by these athletes and their sporting successes on and off the field.

With a runtime of 75 minutes, the feature delves into the behind-the-scenes environment of intense photography sessions, offering a peek into the hard work, discipline, and dedication necessary to craft the perfect shot. Director Grant Carroll effectively manages to present a deep and engaging narrative that not only celebrates the athletes' Greek-God like bodies but also explores the efforts, anxieties, apprehensions, and spirit that underlie the glossy and polished finish of the final calendar.

The prominent stars of the film are the footballers themselves, people like Travis Burns, recognized for his roles in Neighbours and Dawn, and Dan Conn, a former Australian professional rugby league footballer. Luke Grant, a Rugby Union player, and Chris A. Johnson, noted for his acting career, also share screen space in this film. As the men strip down to pose for the cameras, viewers get to witness their metamorphosis from acclaimed athletes to models, each dealing with the challenges and constraints of this transformation in their own unique way. The robust, candid interviews with each athlete add depth to the film, revealing the personalities behind the muscles and sweat.

The film doesn’t just focus on the creation of provocative photos, it also promotes body positivity, physical and mental strength, and the thought that beauty and athletic prowess aren't mutually exclusive. Each athlete showcases their skills, highlighting the strength and flexibility earned by rigorous hours spent on the field and in the gym.

Apart from the main stars, the film involves several people who work behind the curtain. They have their own set of challenges, from coordinating the logistics of the shoot, managing the lighting and accessories, composing the perfect picture, and handling a crew composed primarily of athletes unused to the pressures of a photo shoot. The film gives an evocative look into their world as well, enriching the story with their efforts, expertise, and commitment.

Gods of Football: The Making of the 2009 Calendar stands as a testament to athletics, camaraderie, and the multifaceted aspects of men’s beauty, transcending the cliched portrayals of athletes. Carroll’s directorial talent is on full display in his capable handling of the subject matter, coupled with an instinctive understanding of the men being photographed. As the end product of this arduous journey-Luscious, high-gloss photos are revealed, there is an overwhelming sense of achievement felt by the viewer.

The film operates not just within the realm of muscles and physical aesthetics but also knocks on the door of emotions, fears, anxieties, and excitement that are commonly displayed by the athletes. The regular banter, bonding, and fun during the painstaking process of creating the Gods of Football calendar only further enhance the integrity and complexity of the documentary.

To watch Gods of Football: The Making of the 2009 Calendar is to witness the synergy of sports and aesthetics, the confluence of strength and beauty, and a unique representation of male bonding. It’s a film that extends beyond the physical appearance of athletes to touch upon elements of respect, humility, maternity, rivalry, and much more. Viewers looking for an unconventional sports documentary full of heart-warming camaraderie, fascinating characters, and impressive visual aesthetics will find this film an intriguing and captivating experience.