Legendary writer Charles Gaines, who played an instrumental role in the concept, development, and execution of the blockbuster docudrama Pumping Iron has passed away. The celebrated writer died at 84. He led an interesting life and played an instrumental role in putting bodybuilding on the proverbial map. Prior to the film, physique-based sports were largely presented as a secondary attraction by the AAU in United States. That federation was more focused on strength-based sports, but Pumping Iron changed everything. Suddenly, the oiled-up muscle men became the subject of interest. Muscle became as sought after as strength. Gaines saw the bigger picture (pun intended) and he used his artistic expression to create a script that presented far more than just guys lifting weights and posing in speedos on stage. He created heroes and heels. He also created rivalries. This forced fans – both diehards and newbies – to pick sides. And from there, folks were hooked. They became invested in the film. And many became bodybuilders.
Pumping Iron was a blockbuster. Most bodybuilding fans have seen it at least a dozen times – from beginning to end. The film has also inspired several generations. It was filmed during the 1975 Mr. Universe and Mr. Olympia. The movie was released in 1977 and did huge business. When films went to VHS, DVD, and much later to digital download, it just kept going. If that’s not a sign of a classic, I don’t know what is.
The sport of bodybuilding owes a tremendous debt of gratitude to Charles Gaines. Rest in peace, iron brother!!
