Chrámy těla

We live in an era in which the pursuit of improving one's physical appearance through exercise has gained cult status, a phenomenon that manifests itself in positive, curious, but also very disturbing ways. Present across the board, regardless of sex, age or social class, it represents an unheard-of opportunity for exploitation by industry. For some, it is a means of self-motivation, whilst for others, a living nightmare. It can be a way to determine a person's status in their peer group and society at large, or it can be a desire, a dream, or a cult. The practise of shaping your body by lifting weights was established in antiquity, but only developed into an official sport at the end of the 19th century. At first this sport was only practised in the US, but after World War II it gained popularity in Europe, and in 1998 bodybuilding was finally recognized as an official sport. In accordance with the world around us as it is portrayed by the media, we try to care for our bodies, to shape and to change them. But there is only a thin line between personal interest and obsession, between concern about a healthy diet and compulsive dieting, between staying in shape and bodybuilding, steroids and cosmetic surgery. One's own health and self-image can be turned into an asset, to be managed like a business. The winners of this practise are but a handful of individuals, whilst the number of victims is increasing rapidly. MUDr. Frantisek Krch. Initially, Body Temples takes the viewer into the surreal world of the International Bodybuilding championships, before offering a more focused view of the Czech bodybuilding scene by following two of its most successful members: Tomas Bures, Mr Universe of 2006 and 2007, and Monika Slosrova, the Czech champion of female bodybuilding, both allowed us access to their personal and sporting lives over the course of nine months. (texte officiel du distributeur)