Release Date: January 15,2025
The Nightlight Cinema Hosts Ohio Premiere of Men’s Health Documentary Generation Flex, Director Dorenna Newton
Debut Feature Explores Teen Body Image Crisis, Dangers of Fitness Supplement Culture
January 15, 2025, AKRON, OH – The Nightlight Cinema is proud to present the Ohio premiere of Generation Flex, the debut documentary feature from Men’s Health magazine, with two special screenings on Friday, January 17, 2025, at 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM. Director Dorenna Newton will be present for a post-film Q&A session for each screening.
The documentary holds particular significance for Ohio audiences, featuring the story of Logan Stiner, an 18-year-old from LaGrange, Ohio, who tragically passed away in 2014 from cardiac arrhythmia caused by powdered caffeine supplement use. His story is a powerful reminder of the risks young people face in pursuing unrealistic physical ideals.
“As a mom of two boys, the idea for this film came crashing into my life when culture started to live behind a small phone screen in our home,” says Newton, who also serves as the Head of Video at Men’s Health. “This is a story that needs to be heard. We hope it helps parents recognize warning signs in their kids before it’s too late.”
The documentary features insights from leading experts such as Bryn Austin, Ph.D., Harvard professor specializing in boys, social media, and body image, and Jason Nagata, M.D., pediatric clinician and eating disorder specialist at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals.
"We're honored to bring this important film to Akron," says Jenn Kidd, Executive Director of The Nightlight. "At a time when young people face unprecedented pressure from social media, Generation Flex opens crucial conversations about mental health, body image, and the wellness industry's impact on our youth."
Event Details
● When: Friday, January 17, 2025
● Generation Flex screenings at 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM
● Post-screening Q&A with Director Dorenna Newton for both screenings
● Where: The Nightlight Cinema, 30 N High Street, Akron, OH
Tickets available at nightlightcinema.com/movie/generation-flex.
What People Are Saying About Generation Flex
“A powerful example of why we must collectively address body image pressures on young people and the easy access they have to dangerous substances.” – United States Anti-Doping Agency
“A must-see awakening about the pressures our youth face regarding body image and the potentially dangerous solutions they seek.” – Taylor Hooton Foundation
“An important story and a must-see for parents.” – Eating Disorders Coalition
About Dorenna Newton
Dorenna Newton is the Executive Producer for Men’s Health and Esquire, overseeing all filmed content for both brands. She is the creator of series like Gym & Fridge and Explain This and has a passion for storytelling that inspires meaningful conversations about health and wellness.
About The Nightlight Cinema
The Nightlight Cinema is an independent, nonprofit movie theater located in downtown Akron, Ohio. As a 501(c)(3) organization, The Nightlight is dedicated to fostering community connections through the power of cinema.
For more information about Generation Flex, visit: