Taming the Beast – A Champion Against Himself

Taming the Beast is a compelling feature documentary that follows the extraordinary journey of British strongman Eddie Hall.

By Carmine Carpenito
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After becoming the World's Strongest Man in 2017, Eddie Hall returned home—not only as one of the most successful strength athletes in history, but also as a man battling depression and psychological pressure. The documentary explores not only his remarkable athletic achievements, but also the darker moments that nearly pushed him to the edge.

​From Triumph to the Inner Battle

The film follows Eddie's rise through the world of strength sports, including his historic 500 kg (1,102 lb) deadlift in 2016—the first official lift of its kind.

But success also came with consequences.

After achieving his lifelong dream, Eddie realised that even becoming the World's Strongest Man could not silence his inner demons. Inspired by childhood heroes Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone—both of whom also appear in Taming the Beast—he sets out to pursue a new dream: building a career in Hollywood.
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Yet the pandemic, injuries, and personal rivalries put his determination to the ultimate test.

A Swiss Perspective on Strength and Vulnerability

The documentary is directed by Swiss-Canadian filmmaker Josias Tschanz together with British director Chris Michael Fretwell. It was produced by Guido Baechler, an experienced Swiss filmmaker known for projects including Iron Sky: The Coming Race and the DACH-version of the Award winning animated movie Bilal: A New Breed of Hero.

Baechler brings his passion for authentic storytelling and meticulous character development to the project. As a result, the film presents Eddie Hall not only as an elite athlete, but as a man learning to accept his inner demons and speak openly about them.

​An Inspiring Documentary

With powerful imagery, honest storytelling, and an inspiring message, Taming the Beast is far more than a sports documentary.
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It is a story of courage, resilience, and self-acceptance—one that reminds us that true strength comes not only from physical power, but from the strength we find within ourselves.

The Original Release by Film Guide