Bigger, Stronger, Faster (PG-13, 2008)

Director Chris Bell takes an up-close and personal look into the world of performance enhancing drug use. So personal, that he interviews his brothers extensively about their use of anabolic steroids and other drugs. During his study of the history of steroid use, he uncovers some facts and sheds light on why doping is such a hot topic these days. Athletes like Carl Lewis and Ben Johnson are interviewed about their admitted (or secret) doping. Senate hearings are tapped into, and baseball heroes like Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, and Jose Canseco are shown talking about-- or denying -- doping.

What's disturbing about this documentary, however witty and interesting it is, is how very close the subject is to the director. His analysis becomes skewed, regardless of the fact that he personally objects to doping. His love, admiration, and pity for his brothers sways him in a way that an outsider to the pressures of the bodybuilding world would not feel. On the other hand, he explores the topic of hypocrisy and cheating in a very succinct manner. Ultimately, Bell believes that American culture is the problem. He deduces simply that "in America, cheaters always prosper."

Studio: Magnolia Pictures
Director: Christopher Bell
Cast: Chris Bell, Hank Aaron, Mark Bell
Genre: Documentary
Run time: 106 minutes
Theatrical release: October 8, 2008
DVD release: September 30, 2008
MPAA Rating: PG-13
MPAA explanation: thematic material involving drugs, language, some sexual content and violent images