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The Simone Biles Story: Courage to Soar

Name: The Simone Biles Story: Courage to Soar
Director: Vanessa Parise
Released: 2018
Duration: 76 min

Representation Score

6.5/10

Good

2018

TV-PG

Director

Vanessa Parise

Runtime

76 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The film excels by centering a Black female protagonist whose journey is defined by navigating systemic instability. It goes beyond typical sports narratives to explore how early childhood trauma and the foster care system shape a person’s path. While the film lacks LGBTQ+ representation and diverse disability narratives, it offers a sophisticated look at the overlapping aspects of identity. The portrayal of female autonomy and the complexities of race and class adds significant depth.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Simone Biles Story: Courage to Soar have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or narratives. The story focuses solely on the protagonist's personal milestones and family support systems.

How does The Simone Biles Story: Courage to Soar portray gender?

Good

The film highlights the female protagonist's strong role in driving the story and her physical mastery. It challenges the passive stereotype of women by emphasizing the intense discipline and psychological strength needed for elite gymnastics.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Simone Biles Story: Courage to Soar?

Excellent

The film presents a nuanced depiction of the Black experience. It emphasizes the protagonist's identity rooted in her specific cultural context and the challenges faced in the foster care system.

How does The Simone Biles Story: Courage to Soar represent religion and culture?

Good

The story addresses systemic critiques of the foster care system and socioeconomic barriers. It examines how identity is shaped by institutional obstacles and early-life instability.

Does The Simone Biles Story: Courage to Soar include disability representation?

Fair

The film explores the resilience of the mind and the management of psychological trauma. It avoids simplistic inspirational stories and focuses on the complexity of enduring psychological challenges.

Present on Screen

Strong portrayal of female autonomy and physical mastery.
Nuanced depiction of the Black experience and systemic vulnerability.
Sophisticated exploration of psychological resilience and trauma.

Limited or Absent

Absence of LGBTQ+ characters or non-straight narratives.
Limited engagement with diverse disability perspectives.

Official Synopsis

Based on her book, this World Premiere film follows Simone Biles through the sacrifices and hard work that led her to win 19 Olympic and World Championship medals.

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