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Passion Of İron

The “Passion of Iron” documentary tells the life stories of three elite bodybuilding athletes in the triangle of Ankara, Istanbul and Cyprus, witnessing 24 hours a day.

It is the story of a challenging journey that started with curiosity and turned into a passion, from IFBB PRO challenges to Olympia, where the only weapons they can use are their own soul and body.

This documentary, which tells the family, friends and business lives of these three athletes born into different lives, reveals the embodiment of a passion that will inspire.

"It is the war of existence of those who are their own mirror and their struggle with the Passion of Iron."

  • Özgür Gerçel
    Director
  • Özgür Gerçel
    Writer
  • Özgür Gerçel
    Producer
  • Öykü Başar
    Key Cast
    "Öykü Başar"
  • Sami Hamidi
    Key Cast
    "Sami Hamidi"
  • Ahmet Mertcan Develi
    Key Cast
    "Ahmet Mertcan Develi"
  • Project Title (Original Language):
    Demir Sevdası
  • Project Type:
    Documentary
  • Genres:
    sport, bodybuilding, sport documentary
  • Runtime:
    40 minutes
  • Completion Date:
    February 20, 2024
  • Production Budget:
    3,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    Turkey
  • Country of Filming:
    Turkey
  • Language:
    Turkish
  • Shooting Format:
    digital,
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
  • London Indie Film Festival
    London
    United Kingdom
    April 8, 2025
    London
    Award Winner
  • ISTANBUL SPORTS FILM FESTIVAL
    Istanbul
    Turkey
    May 10, 2025
    official selection
Director Biography - Özgür Gerçel

Born in 1978 in Nisantasi, Istanbul, the artist developed an interest in visual arts at a young age, encouraged by a father passionate about photography. During elementary school, he discovered his passion for photography and combined this interest with various sports, including swimming, water polo, underwater rugby, motorcycle racing, and sailing. In his twenties, the artist began to focus on storytelling through photography, embracing visual expression as a means of communication. Throughout his career, he has participated in every stage of film production, continuing to explore the world behind the camera and share this perspective with others.

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Director Statement

Passion of Iron is more than just a story about a sport or physical transformation. This documentary sets out to explore the internal and external reflections of a journey fueled by passion, one that pushes the boundaries of human willpower.

While portraying the lives of these three athletes, we witness individuals who are not only building their muscles but also strengthening their minds, emotions, and souls. Coming from different backgrounds yet united by the same goal, they are not just athletes—they are inspiring characters.

In this documentary, as we follow them over the course of a day, we have carefully captured every detail, from the sweat in the gym to the warmth of family gatherings. My goal was to ensure the audience not only sees their physical achievements but also feels their inner struggles, sources of motivation, and above all, their passion.

Passion of Iron is the story of individuals who, when they look in the mirror, don’t just see a physical body but also the reflection of their soul’s battle. This film aims to show viewers that dreams are only possible through courage and dedication. Because this is more than just a sport; it is the story of humanity’s struggle to understand and transform itself.

While bringing this project to life, my belief in the power of passion and the limitless potential of humanity has only grown stronger. I hope this story inspires everyone who watches it to look into their own mirror with greater courage.