Ronnie Coleman: The King

Ronnie Coleman: The King is an inspiring documentary that encapsulates the life, career, challenges, and tribulations of eight-time Mr. Olympia champion, Ronnie Coleman. Directed by Vlad Yudin, the 2018 documentary goes beyond a mere fitness film or an ode to one of the most eminent bodybuilders the world has ever witnessed. Instead, it offers an in-depth, emotionally charged, and intimate portrayal of Coleman's journey from a modest beginning as a police officer in Arlington, Texas, to becoming a living legend in the world of bodybuilding.

The film gives the audience an unfathomably detailed insight into Coleman's grueling, sometimes painful, training regime, which secured him his place in the annals of bodybuilding history. Yudin deftly mastercrafts the portrayal of Coleman’s passion, determination, blood, sweat, and occasional tears that string the story to its dramatic zenith. The ethos of 'no pain, no gain' is painted in vivid detail, but it never fails to underline the human face that wears the crown, portraying Coleman’s vulnerability along with his unassailable will and strength.

The documentary features former Mr. Olympia winners and phenomenal bodybuilders in their own right, like Jay Cutler and Rich Gaspari, which further illuminates the strict and challenging spectrum of professional bodybuilding. They provide their personal insights into Coleman’s career, his unprecedented fitness regime, and unwavering commitment to the sport, enriching the film with a multi-perspective view of Coleman’s journey and the world of competitive bodybuilding they shared with The King. Laden with praise for Coleman, they recount their experiences with him, sharing their awe and admiration for the man and his sheer dedication.

The director's approach weaves a balance between the past and the present, flashing back to archival footage of Ronnie's titanic workouts, victorious moments, and explosive performances, and then returning to the present, depicting the toll that the world of bodybuilding has leveraged on his body. As a result, attention is centralized on Coleman’s post-career life, marked by multiple surgeries, chronic pain, and continued physical therapy, emanating the raw aftermath of being devoted to a sport that demands everything and more.

The movie also focuses on Coleman's mindset, which arguably played a pivotal role in shaping his career. Through interviews with Coleman, the audience gains an understanding of his driving forces, personal philosophies, and mental toughness, with his humble persona shining through in every aspect. The man who famously said, "Everybody wants to be a bodybuilder, but don't nobody wanna lift no heavy-ass weights” is revealed in all his layers, adding depth to his persona and making the viewers realize that behind the larger-than-life athlete stands a man who had to tackle and overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles thrown at him by life.

Furthermore, the film offers a vantage point into Coleman’s personal life - his family, children, colleagues – shedding light on the man behind the muscles. It showcases how they keep him grounded and supported through every challenge. It emphasizes that despite the fame, fortune, and accolades, Ronnie has remained modest, kind, and authentically himself.

Ronnie Coleman: The King is a rare breed of documentary. It isn't simply about celebrating Coleman's eight unprecedented Olympia wins or his larger-than-life on-stage persona. The film is also about showcasing the man's character, the resilience, the tenacity, the immense mental strength, and his indomitable spirit behind those glorious muscles. In doing this, the film also provides a unique commentary about the intense, highly demanding world of professional bodybuilding.

In conclusion, this movie is a must-see not only for bodybuilding enthusiasts but for anyone who gets inspired by stories of human endurance, determination, and resilience. The poignant highs and lows of Coleman's life offer an inspiring message about the undying spirit of humanity and a reminder that true champions are those who not only embrace their dreams but also the sacrifices that come with them. Ronnie Coleman: The King represents the raw reality of what it means to be exceptional and the price one must pay for that distinction. The movie leaves an indelible impression, making it clear why Ronnie Coleman is, and perhaps will always be, The King.