A bodybuilder fan will enjoy Stand Tall by default. This documentary highlights bodybuilding as its setting. Overall, it is an attempt for Lou Ferrigno to get out of the shadow of Arnold Schwarzenegger. There are brief moments where we see Ferrigno as a human being, not the villain as he is depicted in Pumping Iron. We see Ferrigno as a child, the son, the husband and a friend to many. As a professional bodybuilder, we see him as an idol as well.
However, Stand Tall mirrors many of its plot and filming style to Pumping Iron. The only difference is they put Ferrigno in the shoes of Schwarzenegger. This is obvious as the documentaries attempt to put Ferrigno on the same "stage" as Schwarzenegger. Similar journey's, backgrounds and goals. This is attempted but fails. This is because of Ferrigno. No matter how presented, Ferrigno tries to be like Arnold, the leading man, the hero, the champion. However, in the end, although humble and still loved by many, falls short from being like Arnold. Stand Tall is the overall message of Ferrigno's story. Time and time again he has failed but continues to fight the good fight. Although the moral of the story is present, the documentary portrays Ferrigno as second best, if not a less popular version of Schwarzenegger.
Review of Stand Tall
