Strong!

Strong! is an empowering and inspiring feature-length documentary film from 2012. Having its debut at the Silverdocs Documentary Festival, the compelling film features the stories of powerlifting athlete Cheryl Haworth and her coach, J.S. Gilbert. Directed by award-winning documentarian, Julie Wyman, the film explores Haworth's life and challenges as a professional weightlifter for the United States, while also delving into her personal struggles and triumphs.

At the center of the film is Cheryl Haworth, a three-time Olympic weightlifter and world breaker who has dedicated her life to the predominantly male sport. Haworth’s achievements in weightlifting have been nothing short of astounding. The film spotlights her meticulous dedication, hard work, unyielding spirit, and resilience by capturing several major highlights in her weightlifting career, such as winning a bronze medal in the 2000 Sydney Olympics at just 17 years old.

Naturally, the film also features diffcult moments where Haworth grapples with significant challenges, including injury and the expectations of excelling at the highest levels of professional sports. It comprehensively covers Haworth’s incredible persistence and determination, which she demonstrates throughout her ten-year career in weightlifting, even when facing obstacles that could deter her path.

J.S Gilbert, Haworth's coach, also plays an important role in the film. His relationship with Cheryl provides a viewpoint into the coaching side of elite sports, coupled with the intense training sessions and emotional support necessary for such commitment. He stands by Haworth's side throughout, providing the motivation and coaching necessary for her to reach the Olympian heights she eventually attains.

The film isn’t solely focused on sports. It aims to give viewers an intimate glimpse into Haworth's personal life, alongside her career. It delves into her battles with self-image, societal expectations, and her weight, highlighting the difficulties that come with being a professional athlete, particularly for women in a sport traditionally dominated by men.

Director Julie Wyman eloquently manages to strike the balance between maintaining the intensity of the sport’s spirit and highlighting the personal struggles and achievements of Haworth. She not only details the triumphs and failures of an athlete but also encapsulates the human spirit that perseveres against all odds.

The film skillfully addresses the theme of body positivity by opening a dialogue about the struggles female athletes and larger women, in general, face in a society fixated on body size and appearance. Haworth's confidence and acceptance of her own body size and looks emit an empowering message to all viewers, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance.

The cinematography is visually stunning. With the camera angles and lighting accurately capturing the strain and sweat of intense workout sessions to the triumphant lift of the weight above her head, Haworth's strength and vulnerability are exhibited brilliantly without the need for dialogue.

Strong! stretches beyond the cliche portrayal of athletes as invincible superhumans. It studies the hardship, struggle, and often unrecognized efforts behind their medals and records. It depicts an athlete's life beyond the sport and its emotional, physical, and societal toll. It also sheds light on the often overlooked world of women's weightlifting, using the career of Cheryl Haworth as a stepping stone to expose viewers to this striking sport.

Interwoven within the narrative are instances of humor and revelry, capturing the joy that comes with achieving milestones, no matter how big or small. These moments bring a heartfelt respite from the gravity of Haworth's journey and earn vital emotional investment from the audience.

Strong! is not just a raw and impassioned documentary about weightlifting or Cheryl Haworth’s life and achievements; it is a lesson in strength, resilience, self-acceptance, body positivity, and most importantly, a testament to the human spirit. It is a recommended watch for anyone who appreciates documentaries about incredible human beings, sports enthusiasts, and particularly weightlifting fans, as it is a beautiful homage to their favorite sport.