Pumping Iron II: The Women
Pumping Iron II: The Women

Movie spotlight

Pumping Iron II: The Women

1985
Movie
107 min
English

PUMPING IRON II: THE WOMEN, a film that is changing the way the world views the female physique-creating "a new definition of the female form." Join four women as they prepare for the 1983 Caesars Palace World Cup Championship: the sultry and curvaceous Rachel McLish, the current champion; the super-muscular Bev Francis, Rachel's toughest competition; and newcomers Lori Bowen and Carla Dunlap.

Insights

IMDb6.6/10
Rotten Tomatoes60%
Director: George ButlerGenres: Documentary, Sport

Plot Summary

This documentary follows several elite female bodybuilders as they prepare to compete in the 1983 Caesars Palace World Cup. It focuses on the intense training, personal sacrifices, and fierce rivalries among athletes like Rachel McLish, Bev Francis, and Cory Everson. The film explores the burgeoning world of professional women's bodybuilding and the challenges these athletes faced in gaining recognition and respect in a male-dominated sport.

Critical Reception

Pumping Iron II: The Women received mixed to positive reviews, praised for its candid portrayal of female athletes and their dedication. While some critics found the subject matter niche, many appreciated the film's insight into the intense world of bodybuilding and the personal stories of the featured women. It highlighted the physical and mental fortitude required for the sport.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its insightful look into the competitive world of female bodybuilding.

  • Appreciated for showcasing the dedication and physical prowess of the athletes.

  • Some found the subject matter less engaging than the original 'Pumping Iron'.

Google audience: Information not readily available for a specific Google user review summary.

Fun Fact

The film notably includes footage of the controversial judging at the 1983 Caesars Palace World Cup, where Cory Everson, despite appearing more muscular, was controversially defeated by Rachel McLish, leading to debate about the sport's evolving aesthetic standards.

AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources

My Review