Critics praise the “inner and outer strength” explored throughout DRIVEN: The Tony Pearson Story
DRIVEN: The Tony Pearson Story is now available on all major digital platforms including Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, and more! And critics agree, this latest bodybuilding documentary is an artful and passionate look into not just outer strength – but the power of inner strength against great adversity. More than a film about bodybuilding, DRIVEN is a story that reveals a complex and powerful character study rarely seen in strength sports documentaries.
Alongside the release of DRIVEN: The Tony Pearson Story, the first round of reviews has also been published. Notably, critics have praised the artful cinematography as well as the deep character study revealed behind the muscle of Tony Pearson. Calling DRIVEN an exemplary exploration of not just physical triumphs – but mental triumphs as well.
Critics rave that DRIVEN is a film about inner and outer strength
Beyond chronicling Tony Pearson’s career, the film goes into delicate detail about the childhood abuse he faced while growing up in the south. It’s this origin story that is the core of the film – revealing that Tony’s outer strength is only the result of an unstoppable inner resilience. It was the only reason he was able to survive and escape his childhood circumstance. It’s a past that still lingers in mind to this very day with his abusive aunt manifesting as the mental specter of his challenge competing again at 62 years old during his documented comeback.
“Many viewers of DRIVEN will be shocked to learn of the childhood abuse and neglect endured by one of the world’s strongest men,” wrote Laura Wilhelm in her Close-Up Culture review. She continues, “Yet Pearson’s will to survive and thrive never ceased to move him forward towards ultimate triumph.”
Wilhelm goes on to emphasize that the exploration into Tony Pearson’s abusive past transfers to the audience – inspiring anyone who watches to take stock and push harder for their dreams:
“DRIVEN should inspire many to seize the day and finally fulfill their potential.”
– Laura Wilhelm via Close-Up Culture
A Surprisingly Evocative Exploration Into An 80s Bodybuilding Icon
While the film does go into detail about Tony Pearson’s career and the dedication and nuance required to succeed in the sport of bodybuilding – what shines most is the emotional element that is universal for any audience member.
“In documenting the life and career of Tony Pearson, DRIVEN: The Tony Pearson Story comes together as a moving and winning story of perseverance,” wrote Andrew Stover in his Film Threat review.
“The film showcases the inner and outer strengths of one of the most accomplished bodybuilders in the world.”
– Andrew Stover via Film Threat
A Story About Drive That Will Inspire All
Despite the potentially triggering and controversial subject matter of child abuse in the film – it is ultimately an uplifting documentary. The DRIVEN in the title speaks to the core of the entire experience. Despite abuse, challenges, and trauma – it is possible to remain driven. It’s possible to save yourself. It’s possible, even 50 years later, to face the trauma with each and every new challenge you face.
“For anyone who likes a story with a happy ending, it is certainly a feel-good experience,” writes Valerie Milano in her The Hollywood Times article.
This much is true. DRIVEN: The Tony Pearson Story is still a bodybuilding story through and through. And like most bodybuilding stories – it is about perseverance and rising above all challenges in the end.
DRIVEN is a movie that will show you an emotional and moving persona of an iconic bodybuilder – perhaps in a way no bodybuilding fan could have expected. But it’s also a film that is steeped in the Golden Era California bodybuilding atmosphere. For both general audiences and fans who love bodybuilding history – this is a must watch documentary.
You can stream or download DRIVEN: The Tony Pearson Story on digital today right here or by clicking the banner below.
