“Backspot”

“Backspot,” offers a refreshing take on the world of cheerleading, presenting it not just as a flashy spectacle, but as a serious sport filled with dedicated athletes striving for perfection. Director D.W. Waterson captures the modern world of the sport with her story of a teenager who is defined by her drive, determination, ambition, and genuine love of competition.

Riley (Devery Jacobs) is a formidable backspot on a mid-level cheer squad. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she’s offered a spot on the Thunderhawks, a high-performance All-Star team. She’s a typical teenager with standard adolescent problems, including a crippling anxiety that complicates her everyday life.

Riley is a complex character with plenty of depth, and her journey of self-discovery feels authentic within the trajectory of the story. The highlight of the film comes from the dynamic between the young woman and her demanding head coach (Evan Rachel Wood). Pushing Riley to her limits causes a growing tension between her ambition and mental health, as she walks a delicate balance that could come crashing down at any minute.

The film doesn’t shy away from tackling tough issues that aren’t exclusive to the sport of cheerleading, including body image, performance anxiety, and the pressure to succeed. Coach is highly critical of Riley’s weight, appearance, effort, and execution, and when coupled with the young woman’s competitive perfectionist nature, it proves to be a tough combination for a teenager who is still trying to figure it all out.  

While the story may not be particularly original, the film’s strength lies in its authentic portrayal of teenage life and the complexities of relationships both on and off the mat. These are real characters who act and talk like you’d expect them to, which lends a welcome realism to the story.

By: Louisa Moore