Watch Strong!

Strong! is a documentary film directed by Julie Wyman, released in 2012. The movie revolves around the lives of three unique characters that have dedicated their lives to amateur Olympic-style weightlifting. The focus of the movie is on Cheryl Haworth, who was a member of the United States Olympic Weightlifting Team at the age of 17 in 2000, she had been training since she was 12 years old. We follow Cheryl's journey as a weightlifter, from her early years competing in local competitions to the moment she reached the world stage. Cheryl is a fascinating figure, one who destroyed the notion that weightlifting was for men only, and proved that women can be just as tough and dedicated. The movie chronicles her trials and tribulations, her triumphs and her setbacks, as well as her innermost thoughts and feelings as an athlete.

The second character the movie focuses on is J.S. Gilbert, the only male Olympic weightlifter in his class in the United States. His story is one of perseverance and dedication, as he trains incessantly to try and achieve his dream of competing at the highest level. We witness his journey, the struggles he faces, and the amount of effort and sacrifice it takes to make it to the top.

The third character the movie profiles is Coach Kyle Pierce, who coaches young aspiring weightlifters, including the two other main characters of the film. Kyle's story is intriguing as he's still trying to find his place in the industry after falling out of the Olympic team due to a stress fracture that shattered his dreams. Even though he wasn't able to compete at the Olympics, he still has a lot of valuable lessons to share with his trainees, and we see what it takes to coach and train others to achieve their best.

Overall, Strong! takes a deep look at the mental and emotional demands of weightlifting, making it about more than just the physical aspect of the sport. It showcases the discipline, the hard work, and the dedication required to reach the highest levels of achievement. The film takes us behind the curtain of the weightlifting community, and with the help of the camera, we get to see the intense training regimen, the highs and lows of competition, and the sacrifices that are made to pursue this demanding sport.

The film also touches on social issues such as body image and our society's obsession with beauty standards, and the way in which these issues can impact an athlete's mental health. The movie showcases the unique perspectives of athletes who do not fit societal norms and proves that every athlete, regardless of age, gender, shape, or size, can be a champion.

The cinematography in the movie is stunning, and there are many moments of beauty and grace amongst the grueling training sessions and the sound of weights clanging. The film captures the essence of weightlifting as a sport that is as much about endurance and strength as it is about mental fortitude.

In conclusion, Strong! is an inspiring, authentic, and sometimes emotional documentary about the sport of weightlifting and the athletes that dedicate their lives to it. It takes us on a journey of physical and emotional endurance, and we see the sheer determination and unyielding willpower it takes to be successful in this sport. Strong! is a must-watch for anyone who has ever had a passion for athletics, challenge and fitness.