Pumping Iron: The 25th Anniversary [Special Edition]

"Fans of bodybuilding rejoice, the pumped-up DVD release of this remarkable cult classic has finally made it to DVD in fine form thanks to the efforts of HBO/Rysher Entertainment. Presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.33:1, the image as viewed here is just about as good as one could hope for given the limited budget and age of the film. Though slightly grainy at times (a result of the 16 mm film stock on which the film was shot), the colors are bright and vivid and the transfer clean and virtually flawless. This is a film that has been a long time coming on DVD, and it's obvious that great care was taken in ensuring the best transfer possible. With sound options including both Dolby Digital 5.1 and Dolby Digital Stereo, both tracks are clean and free of distortion, with the Dolby 5.1 track coming in a bit more boldly than the Dolby Stereo. It likely goes without saying that, while the Dolby 5.1 track does indeed carry a bit more weight, it certainly lacks in the directional effects and dynamics of recent tracks originally recorded in that particular format. As pleased as fans will be to see the respect that was given to the transfer of the film, though, it's the extras that truly make this disc worth the purchase. More than simple bonus features, these extras offer a continuation of the story of Pumping Iron. ""Raw Iron,"" in particular, is a special treat. In addition to updating viewers as to what the bodybuilders have been up to since the original docudrama was released back in 1976, this newly produced featurette brings them together for a warm reunion. ""Iron and Beyond,"" while mostly serving as a promotional piece for Arnold Schwarzenegger, does also offer some interesting background information on the sport and spectacle of the bodybuilding culture. An interview with Schwarzenegger, entitled ""Iron Insights,"" clears the air on the many rumors surrounding the film in a humorous and entertaining manner, with the relaxed bodybuilder-cum-star happily knocking down rumors and reminiscing on some of the film's most memorable moments. ""Comments from Arnold"" discusses the origins of bodybuilding as a sport and the ""Pumping Iron Premiere Party"" offers interviews with both the original cast and the newest faces in bodybuilding. Lastly, a video biography for Schwarzenegger presents his life story through voice-over narration, still images, and video clips. Overall, this disc is both a great package for longtime fans and a spectacular introduction to the film for newcomers."