THE STORY

Hands on a Hardbody tells the story of twenty-four ordinary people who gather in Longview, Texas to compete in an unusual endurance contest: the last person remaining with one hand on a brand new Nissan pickup truck wins it.As the hours stretch into days, exhaustion, determination, humor, and heartbreak reveal the contestants’ deepest hopes and struggles. What begins as a simple promotion becomes a powerful portrait of American ambition, perseverance, and the human spirit.

"wonderfully observant, surprisingly fascinating, accomplished documentarty filmmaking."
NEW YORK TIMES"Does for Longview, Texas what the Coen Brothers did for Fargo, North Dakota."
PHILADELPHIA WEEKLYTop Critics at RT rate film 100%
ROTTEN TOMATOES

"A classic piece of Americana... produces gales of laughter... a metaphor for the rigors of human existence."
VARIETY"Gripping and cathartic, the culminating face-off packs a punch most big-budger blowouts would be hard-pressed to match."
VILLAGE VOICE"A nigh-miraculous blend of high spirits, poignancy, gentle satire, and unpretentious insight into the nature of human aspiration make this one of the most impressive films your're likely to see."
AUSTIN CHRONICLE

"hilarious and heartbreaking documentary..."
SALON"The award-winning film about a contest you just won't believe!"
34th STREET MAGAZINE"Joyously entertaining!"
FORT WORTH STAR TELEGRAM

Hands On A Hardbody
— Special Edition DVD

A true American classic, Hands on a Hardbody follows twenty-four small-town Texans competing in an unforgettable test of endurance, willpower, and heart. Both hilarious and deeply moving, the film has become one of the most beloved documentaries of its time.This new edition has been digitally re-mastered and includes 87 minutes of never-before-seen interviews from the original production, offering a deeper look into the lives, struggles, and spirit of the contestants.Signed Edition Available
A limited number of DVDs are available signed by director S.R. Bindler. If you’d like a personalized inscription, simply include what you’d like written in the contact form when ordering — and it will be signed just for you.

For screening requests, DVD inquiries or to just say "hi" please fill out the form below.

Hands on a Hardbody (1997)
Directed by S.R. Bindler
© 1997–2026 Hands on a Hardbody