Backspot

critic Reviews

, 87% Certified Fresh Tomatometer Score
  • An outstanding showcase for Devery Jacobs, Backspot is front of the line as an insightful and thrilling sports drama.
  • , Fresh Tomatometer Score
    Amy NicholsonFilmWeek (KPCC - NPR Los Angeles)
    Waterson has a really good eye for capturing details for these characters. There are relationships within this film that feel real, and a lot that goes unspoken that feels natural.
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  • , Fresh Tomatometer Score
    Kayla Kumari UpadhyayaAutostraddle
    A visceral and dynamic sports film so centered on girlhood in ways that feel exciting and original, but a lot of that work is done by the directing more than the script itself. Regardless, it’s a striking entry into the queerleading canon...
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  • , Fresh Tomatometer Score
    Lisa KennedyNew York Times
    Its early execution strains and wobbles some, but “Backspot” sticks its landing.
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  • , Fresh Tomatometer Score
    Christy LemireRogerEbert.com
    Waterson clearly appreciates what these young female athletes can do – and make no mistake, they are athletes – while also examining the inherent contradictions of their sport.
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  • , Fresh Tomatometer Score
    Manuel BetancourtVariety
    It is Jacobs’ performance that makes “Backspot” such an exciting watch, even as it hits well-known beats and otherwise expected character arcs
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  • , Fresh Tomatometer Score
    Sarah-Tai BlackGlobe and Mail
    An energetic coming-of-age film that pairs the tonalities of a rugged sports flick with the depth of a well-scripted drama, Backspot is a promising debut from Waterson that will leave audiences cheering.
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  • , Fresh Tomatometer Score
    Peter GrayThe AU Review
    This is a cautionary tale that warns of the extremes of dedication, whilst proving a love letter to the art of cheerleading and the zeal it requires.
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  • , Fresh Tomatometer Score
    Rubén RosarioMiamiArtZine
    At 93 minutes, it flies by. Your nerves might be more than a bit frazzled by the time it loosens its grip...
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  • , Fresh Tomatometer Score
    Christie CronanCommon Sense Media
    This queer coming-of-age cheerleading drama is a viscerally dynamic teen sports film that tackles complex themes of mental health, relationships, and ambition with a healthier perspective than many previous movies about cheerleading.
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  • , Fresh Tomatometer Score
    Anthony MullinsFILMINK (Australia)
    … it is hard not to cheer on Backstop’s sincere, joyous and often moving portrayal of youthful athleticism.

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