Synopsis: A personal, Michael Moore–style take on America’s perception of and preoccupation with steroids.
The backstory: After a year of following the news about steroid use in competitive sports—as well as a lifetime of admiration for bodybuilders that he shared with his two brothers, both steroid users—Bell began filming in January 2005.
Budget: “Over a million, under $5 million,” Bell says.
Financed by: Independent investors. “During periods of filming, to save money, I lived on protein shakes,” Bell says. “They’re cheaper than meals. The best is chocolate Muscle Milk, and I’d have four or five a day.” Magnolia Pictures will release the film in late 2008.
Director’s next project: Pitching a television sitcom set in the fitness subculture of Muscle Beach.
Return to True Stories or read about other directors:
Alex Gibney (Gonzo: The Life and Work of Dr. Hunter S. Thompson)
James Marsh (Man on Wire)
Nanette Burstein (American Teen )
Tia Lessin and Carl Deal (Trouble the Water)
Marina ZenovichRoman Polanski: Wanted and Desired
