Watch Bending Steel

Bending Steel is a 2013 documentary film directed by Dave Carroll that tells the story of Chris 'Wonder' Schoeck, a young man from Queens, New York, who obsessively pursues his dream of bending steel with his bare hands. The film follows Chris's journey as he trains for a performance at the Coney Island Strongman Competition, where he hopes to impress the judges and achieve his ultimate goal of becoming a professional strongman. Along the way, we are introduced to Christian Rider, a veteran of the strong man circuit who serves as Chris's mentor and motivator.

The film explores the physical and emotional challenges that Chris faces as he attempts to master the art of steel bending. We see him struggle with self-doubt, fear of failure, and the pain of pushing his body to the limit. At the same time, we witness the supportive community of fellow strongmen who rally around him, offering advice, encouragement, and heartfelt friendship.

Through interviews with Chris and his associates, as well as footage of his training sessions and competition performances, the filmmakers capture the essence of what it means to pursue a seemingly impossible dream. They also delve into the history and culture of this unique subculture, tracing its roots back to the carnivals and vaudeville shows of the early twentieth century.

Bending Steel is not just a film about physical prowess, however. It is also a deeply human story that explores themes of perseverance, passion, and the search for meaning in life. Chris's dedication to steel bending is a metaphor for the struggle that we all face in trying to achieve our goals, whether they be personal or professional.

The film is shot in a gritty, low-budget style that suits the subject matter perfectly. The camera follows Chris through the streets of Queens, documenting his daily routines and interactions with his neighbors. We see him in his cramped apartment, surrounded by his collection of steel bars and weights, and we hear him talk about his hopes and fears for the future.

The soundtrack of the film is also a highlight, featuring a mix of upbeat rock and roll and poignant ballads that perfectly capture the mood of each scene. The music adds an emotional depth to the story that is both moving and inspiring.

Overall, Bending Steel is a compelling and powerful documentary that celebrates the human spirit and the pursuit of excellence. Whether you are a fan of strongman competitions or not, this film will touch your heart and leave you feeling uplifted and inspired. It is a testament to the power of the human will and the importance of following your dreams, no matter how difficult or improbable they may seem.

Bending Steel is a 2013 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 33 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.9.