If you’re a fan of bodybuilding, you’ve probably heard about Ronnie Coleman: The King. The 2018 Ronnie Coleman documentary takes a deep dive into the life of the 8-time Mr. Olympia and bodybuilding legend. But does it deliver?
First off, of course it does. Anything with Ronnie Coleman in it, in my opinion, is a complete must-see. Funny enough, I have all his old-school VHS training videos. You know, the ones people would look at you like you’re nuts because you’re watching a man eat chicken in a restaurant and pick heavy weights up and put them down.
(Those were actually the good old days of training, unlike today’s generation.)
Second, there aren’t a lot of movies or documentaries out there on bodybuilders, so if you find one, watch it.
But seriously, I wanted to write this article to break down the Ronnie Coleman documentary and let you know my opinion of whether or not you should get yourself excited to sit down and watch it, or if this is mediocre at best.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used to treat or diagnose any condition. It is recommended that you speak with your doctor before starting any exercise program, making changes to your nutrition plan, or adding any new supplements into your current regimen.
The Ronnie Coleman Documentary Storyline: From Humble Beginnings to Bodybuilding Royalty
The Ronnie Coleman documentary starts by taking viewers through Ronnie’s journey from his early days in Louisiana to the global stage of professional bodybuilding. We see a young man with a dream, but the film doesn’t just focus on the wins. It highlights the discipline, sacrifices, and sheer grit required to become the greatest in the sport.
One of the strongest aspects of the documentary is how it balances the personal and professional sides of Ronnie. You don’t just get a highlight reel of competitions… you see a man with family, friends, and a drive that often borders on obsession.
Incredible Training Footage
If there’s one thing the Ronnie Coleman documentary gets right, it’s the training sequences. Fans of the sport will get chills watching Ronnie hit insane numbers in the gym. Squats, deadlifts, bench presses… you name it, he does it at a level few can even imagine.
The film captures not just the physical feats but the intensity of his mindset. His famous phrases, “Yeah Buddy!” and “Lightweight Baby!” are sprinkled throughout, giving viewers a glimpse into the mental toughness that made him a legend.
The (Unfortunate) Reality of Bodybuilding
What sets the Ronnie Coleman documentary apart from other bodybuilding documentaries is its honesty. It doesn’t shy away from the cost of extreme bodybuilding. Ronnie’s body has taken a serious toll, with multiple surgeries and ongoing pain. The film shows the stark reality behind the stage lights and trophy wins.
For anyone who idolizes Ronnie, this is a wake-up call. The Ronnie Coleman documentary makes it clear: greatness comes with a price. And in Ronnie’s case, that price is more than just sweat and blood… it’s a lifelong impact on his health.
Interviews That Add Depth
Another highlight of the Ronnie Coleman documentary is the interviews. Coaches, fellow bodybuilders, and close friends provide insight into what made Ronnie unique. These interviews give context to his achievements and make you appreciate the level of respect he commanded in the bodybuilding world.
They also add a human element. You see admiration, concern, and sometimes humor as people reflect on what it meant to train and compete alongside Ronnie. It makes the Ronnie Coleman documentary feel more like a biography than just a glorified highlight reel.
What Could Have Been Better?
While the Ronnie Coleman documentary shines in many areas, it isn’t perfect. At times, the pacing of the movie feels sort of uneven. Some segments linger too long on personal details, while others rush through key competitions. For hardcore bodybuilding fans like me, this might be frustrating.
Additionally, the film doesn’t dive deeply into some of the controversies and challenges Ronnie faced in his career. A more critical lens could have added an extra layer of complexity, making it more than just a celebration of his wins.
Overall Take: Is the Ronnie Coleman Documentary Worth Watching?
Yes. If you’re interested in bodybuilding, personal discipline, or just want to see what it takes to dominate a sport at the highest level, the Ronnie Coleman documentary is worth your time. It’s inspiring, emotional, and at times, raw.
The Ronnie Coleman documentary gives fans a chance to see both the triumphs and the struggles of a man who literally redefined what a human body could do. It’s not just about lifting heavy weights… it’s about perseverance, passion, and the pursuit of greatness, no matter the cost.
At the end of the day, the Ronnie Coleman documentary is more than a film for bodybuilding enthusiasts. It’s a story about determination, ambition, and living life to the fullest. Yes, it has minor flaws in pacing and depth, but the sheer inspiration it provides overshadows them.
If you’ve ever wanted a behind-the-scenes look at one of the greatest bodybuilders of all time, this is your chance. And if nothing else, you’ll walk away with a newfound respect for the man behind the trophies, the pain, and the unforgettable catchphrases.
Author Bio:
Matt Weik, BS, CSCS, CPT, CSN, is the owner of Weik Fitness. He is a globally recognized and prolific writer. With a passion for creating health and fitness content, Matt’s work has been featured on thousands of websites, over 100 magazines, and he has authored more than 25 published books.
