“Illuminate Your Mind: ‘Generation Flex’ Men’s Health Documentary Premieres in Akron with Director Dorenna Newton”

 See All News

Release Date: January 15, 2025

Debut Documentary Dives into Teen Body Image Crisis, Hazards of Fitness Supplement Culture 

January 15, 2025, AKRON, OH – The Nightlight Cinema is excited to announce the Ohio premiere of Generation Flex, the inaugural documentary feature from Men’s Health magazine, with two exclusive screenings on Friday, January 17, 2025, at 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM. Director Dorenna Newton will be available for a post-film Q&A following each screening. 

This documentary is particularly meaningful for Ohio viewers, telling the tale of Logan Stiner, an 18-year-old from LaGrange, Ohio, who sadly died in 2014 due to cardiac arrhythmia resulting from powdered caffeine supplement usage. His narrative serves as a potent reminder of the dangers young individuals encounter in chasing unattainable physical standards. 

“As a mother of two boys, the concept for this film struck me when our culture became dominated by a small phone screen in our household,” states Newton, who is also the Head of Video at Men’s Health. “This is a message that deserves to be shared. We aspire to assist parents in identifying warning signs in their children before it’s too late.” 

The documentary includes perspectives from prominent specialists including Bryn Austin, Ph.D., a Harvard professor focusing on boys, social media, and body image, as well as Jason Nagata, M.D., a pediatrician and eating disorder expert at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals. 

“We’re privileged to present this vital film to Akron,” remarks Jenn Kidd, Executive Director of The Nightlight. “In an era when young people encounter unparalleled pressure from social media, Generation Flex initiates essential discussions regarding mental health, body image, and the influence of the wellness industry on our youth.” 

Event Details 

● When: Friday, January 17, 2025 

● Screenings of Generation Flex at 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM 

● Post-screening Q&A with Director Dorenna Newton for both sessions

● Where: The Nightlight Cinema, 30 N High Street, Akron, OH 

Tickets can be purchased at nightlightcinema.com/movie/generation-flex.

What Audiences Are Saying About Generation Flex 

“A striking illustration of why we must collectively confront body image stresses on youth and their easy access to harmful substances.” – United States Anti-Doping Agency 

“A necessary eye-opener regarding the pressures our youth face concerning body image and the potentially hazardous solutions they pursue.” – Taylor Hooton Foundation 

“An essential narrative and a must-watch for parents.” – Eating Disorders Coalition 

About Dorenna Newton 

Dorenna Newton is the Executive Producer for Men’s Health and Esquire, supervising all visual content for both organizations. She is the creator of series like Gym & Fridge and Explain This, and possesses a passion for storytelling that triggers impactful discussions about health and wellness. 

About The Nightlight Cinema 

The Nightlight Cinema is an independent, nonprofit cinema situated in downtown Akron, Ohio. As a 501(c)(3) entity, The Nightlight is committed to promoting community ties through the power of films. 

For further details regarding Generation Flex, visit: 

www.menshealth.com/health/a62777089/generationflex/