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Cheerleading movies bring together the excitement of athleticism, the thrill of competition, and the dynamics of teamwork and friendship. These films offer a captivating look at the world of cheerleading, showcasing the dedication, drama, and spirit that define the sport. From high-energy routines and intense rivalries to heartwarming stories of friendship and perseverance, cheerleading movies capture the essence of what it means to be part of a squad. They provide an inspiring glimpse into the challenges and triumphs faced by cheerleaders as they strive for excellence. Whether you’re a cheer enthusiast or simply love an uplifting and motivating story, these films are sure to entertain and inspire. Here’s a list of the best cheerleading movies that you need to watch.
1. Bring It On (2000)
Directed by: Peyton Reed
Bring It On is the quintessential cheerleading movie that has become a cultural phenomenon since its release. The film follows the journey of the Rancho Carne High School Toros cheerleading squad, led by their newly elected captain, Torrance Shipman (Kirsten Dunst). Torrance takes over the squad with high hopes of leading them to victory at the national championships. However, her world is turned upside down when she discovers that their award-winning routines were stolen from the East Compton Clovers, a talented and underfunded squad led by the fierce and determined Isis (Gabrielle Union).
The film delves into themes of competition, leadership, and integrity, all while delivering high-energy cheer routines and plenty of humor. Kirsten Dunst’s portrayal of Torrance captures the character’s initial naivety and growing determination to right the wrongs of her predecessor. Gabrielle Union shines as Isis, bringing depth and strength to her role as a leader fighting for recognition and justice for her team.
The choreography in Bring It On is a standout feature, showcasing the athleticism, creativity, and hard work that goes into competitive cheerleading. The film also highlights the cultural and socio-economic disparities between the two squads, adding layers of social commentary to the story.
Bring It On has spawned several sequels and remains a beloved favorite for its entertaining storyline, memorable characters, and iconic cheerleading scenes. Its blend of humor, drama, and vibrant cheer routines makes it a must-watch for anyone interested in the spirit and excitement of cheerleading. The film celebrates the power of teamwork, resilience, and the importance of fairness in competition.
2. Cheerleader Camp (1988)
Directed by: John Quinn
Cheerleader Camp is a cult classic that combines the elements of comedy and horror in a unique cheerleading setting. The film follows a group of cheerleaders who attend a summer camp to hone their skills and prepare for a national competition. However, their time at camp takes a dark turn as they become embroiled in a series of mysterious and deadly events.
The protagonist, Alison (Betsy Russell), is plagued by nightmares and visions that foreshadow the impending danger. Alongside her supportive boyfriend, Brent (Leif Garrett), Alison must navigate the growing tension and fear among the campers as the body count rises. The camp’s setting provides a perfect backdrop for both the cheerleading routines and the suspenseful plot twists.
Cheerleader Camp is known for its quirky characters, campy humor, and unexpected scares. The film strikes a balance between lighthearted moments and horror elements, creating an entertaining and thrilling experience. The cheerleading sequences, while not as polished as those in more contemporary films, add to the charm and nostalgia of this 80s classic.
While not a traditional cheerleading film, Cheerleader Camp offers a fun and thrilling ride that combines the excitement of cheerleading with the suspense of a horror movie. Its blend of comedy, drama, and horror makes it a nostalgic trip back to the 80s that remains a favorite among fans of both genres. The film’s unique approach to the cheerleading narrative makes it a standout in the genre, offering something different for those looking for a mix of thrills and cheer spirit.
3. Fired Up! (2009)
Directed by: Will Gluck
Fired Up! is a hilarious comedy that flips the traditional cheerleading narrative on its head. The film follows two high school football players, Nick (Eric Christian Olsen) and Shawn (Nicholas D’Agosto), who decide to join their school’s cheerleading camp to meet girls and enjoy the summer. Their plan quickly backfires as they find themselves actually getting into the spirit of cheerleading and helping their squad prepare for a major competition.
The film’s humor is driven by the charismatic performances of Olsen and D’Agosto, whose chemistry and comedic timing make for a delightful viewing experience. Their characters, initially motivated by less-than-honorable intentions, undergo significant development as they begin to appreciate the hard work and dedication required in cheerleading. Along the way, they build genuine friendships with their teammates and discover new aspects of themselves.
Fired Up! is packed with witty dialogue, slapstick comedy, and entertaining cheer routines. The film also explores themes of teamwork, loyalty, and personal growth, as Nick and Shawn begin to genuinely care about their teammates and their success. The supporting cast, including Sarah Roemer as Carly, the squad’s determined captain, and Molly Sims as Coach Diora, add depth and humor to the story.
The film’s lighthearted and fun approach, combined with its fresh perspective on cheerleading, makes Fired Up! a perfect pick for anyone looking for an entertaining and feel-good movie. It’s a comedy that doesn’t take itself too seriously but still manages to convey the importance of commitment and the value of working together towards a common goal. Fired Up! is an enjoyable film that celebrates the unexpected journey of finding passion and purpose in the most unlikely places.
4. Poms (2019)
Directed by: Zara Hayes
Poms is an uplifting comedy-drama that tells the inspiring story of Martha (Diane Keaton), a woman who moves to a retirement community and decides to start a cheerleading squad with her fellow residents. Despite their age, Martha and her new friends prove that it’s never too late to pursue your passions and embrace life with enthusiasm and joy.
The film features a talented ensemble cast, including Jacki Weaver as Sheryl, Martha’s spirited and supportive friend, Pam Grier as Olive, and Rhea Perlman as Alice. These characters, each with their unique backgrounds and personalities, bring humor, heart, and a sense of camaraderie to the story. Their journey to form a cheerleading squad is filled with challenges, laughs, and touching moments, highlighting the importance of friendship and community.
Poms showcases the determination and resilience of its characters as they prepare for their big performance. The cheer routines are both fun and inspiring, demonstrating that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing your dreams. The film challenges stereotypes about aging and celebrates the joy of living life to the fullest.
Diane Keaton’s performance as Martha is both poignant and uplifting, capturing the character’s journey from isolation to finding a new purpose and family among her cheerleading teammates. The film’s direction by Zara Hayes ensures that the story is both heartfelt and entertaining, with a perfect balance of humor and sentiment.
Poms is a heartwarming film that encourages viewers to embrace new adventures and cherish the bonds of friendship. It’s a feel-good movie that will leave you cheering for its delightful characters and their indomitable spirit. The film’s message of resilience and the importance of staying active and engaged in life resonates deeply, making it a must-watch for audiences of all ages.
5. Cheerleaders (1973)
Directed by: Paul Glickler
Cheerleaders is a classic exploitation film that takes a more risqué approach to the cheerleading genre, blending comedy and sexual antics with a dose of 1970s camp. The film follows a high school cheerleading squad that uses their charms to distract the opposing football team to ensure their school’s victory. The plot is lighthearted and humorous, focusing on the mischievous and rebellious spirit of the cheerleaders.
The film stars Stephanie Fondue as Jeannie, the squad’s ringleader, who comes up with the plan to seduce the rival team members. The rest of the squad eagerly joins in, leading to a series of comedic and over-the-top scenarios. The movie is filled with the carefree and playful atmosphere typical of the 70s, offering a nostalgic look at the era’s humor and style.
Cheerleaders is known for its campy humor, outrageous antics, and memorable cheer routines. While it may not be a traditional cheerleading film focusing on sportsmanship and teamwork, it captures the carefree and fun-loving spirit of its characters. The film’s blend of humor, charm, and retro appeal has made it a cult favorite among fans of vintage exploitation films.
Despite its risqué content, Cheerleaders offers an entertaining and nostalgic look at the wilder side of cheerleading. It’s a fun watch for those interested in the more unconventional aspects of cheerleading films, showcasing a different perspective on the genre.
6. Cheer Up (2016)
Directed by: Christy Garland
Cheer Up is a heartfelt documentary that provides a unique look at cheerleading in an unexpected setting: the Arctic Circle. Directed by Christy Garland, the film follows the lives of the members of the Arctic Circle Spirit, the worst-ranked cheerleading team in Finland. Led by their determined coach Miia, the team strives to improve their performance and lift their spirits in the face of numerous challenges.
The documentary delves into the personal lives of the cheerleaders, exploring their struggles, hopes, and dreams. It highlights the universal themes of perseverance, self-discovery, and the pursuit of excellence, regardless of the odds. Miia's unwavering commitment to her team and her desire to see them succeed provides the emotional core of the film.
Cheer Up stands out for its stunning cinematography, capturing the stark beauty of the Arctic landscape and the contrast between the cold environment and the warm, resilient spirits of the cheerleaders. The film’s intimate approach allows viewers to connect deeply with the team members, understanding their motivations and the significance of cheerleading in their lives.
The documentary is a powerful reminder that the essence of cheerleading goes beyond the routines and competitions. It’s about the bonds formed, the personal growth experienced, and the strength found in teamwork. Cheer Up is an inspiring and visually captivating film that sheds light on an unconventional cheerleading story, making it a must-watch for those who appreciate heartfelt and motivational documentaries.
7. All Cheerleaders Die (2013)
Directed by: Lucky McKee and Chris Sivertson
All Cheerleaders Die is a unique blend of horror, comedy, and supernatural elements set in the world of high school cheerleading. Directed by Lucky McKee and Chris Sivertson, the film follows a group of cheerleaders who are brought back to life after a fatal accident, only to return with supernatural powers and a thirst for revenge.
The story centers around Maddy (Caitlin Stasey), a high school outsider who infiltrates the cheerleading squad with a hidden agenda. When a tragic accident claims the lives of the cheerleaders, Maddy’s ex-girlfriend Leena (Sianoa Smit-McPhee), who practices witchcraft, uses her powers to resurrect them. The resurrected cheerleaders soon discover they have gained extraordinary abilities and set out to confront those who wronged them.
All Cheerleaders Die combines elements of dark humor, horror, and high school drama, creating an entertaining and unpredictable narrative. The film explores themes of empowerment, revenge, and the complexities of high school relationships. The performances by the cast are engaging, bringing a mix of intensity and humor to their roles.
The film’s unique premise and genre-blending approach make it stand out in the cheerleading genre. It offers a fresh and entertaining take on the typical cheerleading story, incorporating supernatural elements and a darker tone. All Cheerleaders Die is a must-watch for fans of horror-comedy and those looking for a different spin on cheerleading films.
8. Cheer Squad (2016)
Directed by: George Evanko*
Cheer Squad is an exhilarating documentary series that follows the Great White Sharks, a world-champion cheerleading team from Canada, as they prepare for and compete in the Cheerleading Worlds. Directed by George Evanko, the series provides an in-depth look at the lives of the team members, their rigorous training regimen, and the high stakes of competitive cheerleading.
The series captures the intense physical and mental demands of the sport, highlighting the dedication and resilience required to perform at the highest level. Viewers get to know the cheerleaders personally, understanding their motivations, aspirations, and the challenges they face both on and off the mat. The dynamic between the team members, their coaches, and their families adds depth to the narrative, showcasing the strong sense of community and support within the team.
Cheer Squad stands out for its thrilling cheer routines, behind-the-scenes footage, and the emotional journeys of the athletes. The series not only focuses on the competitions but also delves into the personal growth and development of the cheerleaders, emphasizing the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and passion.
The documentary series is inspiring and captivating, offering a comprehensive look at the world of elite cheerleading. It’s a must-watch for cheerleading enthusiasts and anyone interested in the dedication and hard work that goes into becoming a champion. Cheer Squad celebrates the spirit of cheerleading and the extraordinary athletes who bring it to life.
These cheerleading movies offer a diverse range of stories that capture the energy, drama, and spirit of cheerleading. From inspiring comedies to thrilling dramas, each film provides a unique glimpse into the world of cheerleading, showcasing the dedication, teamwork, and passion that define the sport. Whether you’re a cheer enthusiast or just looking for a good movie, these films are sure to entertain and inspire.
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