In 1975, the world of bodybuilding is abuzz as competitors gear up for the upcoming Mr. Universe amateur contest and the Mr. Olympia professional championship in Pretoria, South Africa. The film kicks off by focusing on Mike Katz, an aspiring contestant dreaming of clinching the title of Mr. Universe. Katz, who experienced bullying during his youth due to his Jewish heritage and glasses, sought solace in sports and initially pursued a career in professional football. However, a severe leg injury while playing for the New York Jets steered him into the world of bodybuilding. In the lead-up to the competition, his mental poise is rattled when fellow competitor Ken Waller playfully swipes Katz's lucky shirt. In a moment of bittersweet reflection, Katz finishes fourth while Waller seizes the title. Despite the disappointment, he calls home to check on his family, radiating optimism, and extends his congratulations to Waller.
The narrative then pivots to the fierce rivalry between Arnold Schwarzenegger and Lou Ferrigno, two titans of professional bodybuilding vying for the coveted Mr. Olympia crown. Schwarzenegger, boasting ten years of experience, has dominated the scene with five consecutive wins and sees this competition as his grand finale. Meanwhile, Ferrigno stands as the tallest and heaviest contender, towering at 6 ft 5 in (1.96 m) and weighing 275 lb (125 kg), intent on usurping Schwarzenegger's reign. The film artfully contrasts their distinct lifestyles, training regimens, and personalities: Schwarzenegger, known for his charismatic and bold demeanor, thrives in the company of fellow bodybuilders at iconic locales like Gold's Gym and Muscle Beach. In contrast, Ferrigno, a quieter soul who lost a degree of hearing due to a childhood ailment, trains in a secluded, dimly-lit basement gym alongside his father, cherishing family bonds above all.
As audiences witness a blend of interviews and workout sequences highlighting both men, Schwarzenegger shares insights about bodybuilding. While he acknowledges the physicality fundamental to the sport, he equally underscores the mental tactics involved in achieving success, attributing part of his winning streak to his strategic use of psychological warfare. The film also shines a light on Franco Columbu, Schwarzenegger’s training partner and a strong contender in the under-200 lb division. Hailing from Ollolai, Sardinia, Columbu takes a nostalgic trip home for a traditional family dinner, showcasing his strength by literally lifting the rear of a car out of a tricky parking situation, earning admiration from his old-fashioned family who approach bodybuilding and boxing with skepticism.
As the competition heats up in South Africa, Schwarzenegger embarks on a calculated campaign of intimidation against Ferrigno, initially befriending him before delivering subtle jabs over breakfast with Ferrigno's family. Amidst the judging for the under-200 lb category, Schwarzenegger makes light-hearted fun of Columbu, but he is momentarily taken aback by the impressive physique of Ed Corney, offering rare praise for his competitor. As the competition progresses, Columbu impressively claims the top spot, advancing to compete against the victor of the over-200 lb category.
In the locker room, tensions build as Schwarzenegger and Ferrigno, along with Serge Nubret, await their turn on stage for the over-200 lb contest. Here, Schwarzenegger applies a final layer of psychological intimidation, leaving Ferrigno visibly rattled. When it comes time to take the stage, Ferrigno struggles under pressure, ultimately finishing in third place, falling behind Nubret and Schwarzenegger, who triumphantly secures his sixth title as Mr. Olympia. Demonstrating his prowess and stage charisma, Schwarzenegger's performance during the posedown against Columbu is nothing short of mesmerizing, leading to his victorious declaration as Mr. Olympia.
In a heartfelt speech post-victory, he announces his retirement from the sport, marking the end of an era. The evening concludes with a celebratory after-party where Schwarzenegger indulges in fried chicken and marijuana, embodying a jovial spirit. In a gesture of goodwill, he wishes Ferrigno a happy birthday, uniting the competitors in a rendition of "Happy Birthday to You" as a cake is unveiled. The film wraps with Schwarzenegger, Ferrigno, and Ferrigno's family sharing a ride to the airport, where Schwarzenegger reveals plans to return to Austria to celebrate with his own family, leaving viewers with a poignant sense of camaraderie and triumph in the competitive world of bodybuilding.
