Netflix’s new docu-series provides an eminently honest and raw take on the endeavors that a competitive cheer team faces in preparation for one of the largest competitions in America. “Cheer” is captivating and embodies the inconsistencies and struggles that come with competitive athletics in a unique way that is rarely portrayed in sports films. 

The six-part series chronologically tells the story of the Navarro cheer team from Texas and their four-month journey leading up to the NCA competition. “Cheer” captures nearly all of the emotionally and physically draining preparations along with the personal stories of the main cast.

The first episode introduced the main cheerleaders and their head coach Monica Aldama. Aldama is known as the backbone of her team because of her aggressive, yet altruistic coaching style, that works like glue for Navarro. Lexi Brumback, Jerry Harris, La’Darius Marshall, Gabi Butler and Morgan Simianer are the five main cheerleaders that are featured the most throughout the series. This creates an almost personal connection for viewers as you have the opportunity to follow their journey throughout the show. 

Although the documentary’s main intention is to inform on the gruesome and painful reality of a successful cheer team, the series accomplishes far more than that. “Cheer” is given a purposeful meaning as it integrates dedication and diligence with intense personal stories from the cheerleaders. As these stories are being shared, viewers come to the realization that this is deeper than hair bows and pom-poms. All aspects of competitive cheer saved these kids from the dark places they were cornered in prior to joining Navarro.

The documentary has drawn in major publicity due to its balance between personal yet relevant life stories. Critics claim the series was engrossing and engaging in a number of ways. I found that the filming and editing process played a large role in the overall appeal of the film.  The directors and editors seamlessly intertwine scenes with slow-motion effects and sharp transitions to draw the audience in.  

“Cheer” is breaking all stereotypical views associated with competitive cheer and creating a new name for the sport that is so often glazed over. Netflix has outdone itself with the emotional turbulence experienced while watching the documentary and the connection built between watchers and the Navarro cheer team.