Top 38 Best Gymnastics Movies To Watch

Athlete A stands out as one of Netflix’s most powerful documentaries, following the tenacious reporters of The Indianapolis Star as they uncover the dark truths behind USA Gymnastics. Their investigation sheds light on the widespread abuse perpetrated by Dr. Larry Nassar, and captures the urgency and depth of their quest for justice.

This compelling film goes beyond the headlines, exposing the systemic failures that allowed such abuse to persist. It challenges viewers to confront the ways in which U.S. Gymnastics neglected its duty to protect young athletes, raising difficult but essential questions about responsibility and accountability.

Through a combination of heartbreaking stories and courageous testimonies, Athlete A immerses audiences in the real-life struggle for change within the sport. The documentary’s emotional impact compels viewers to reflect on how easily trust can be betrayed, and how demanding the fight for justice can be.

Despite its disturbing revelations, Athlete A remains a must-watch—powerfully recognizing the heroic women who courageously came forward, stood up to a system that failed them, and ultimately brought a predator to account.

Olga (2021), directed and co-written by Elie Grappe, follows the journey of a 15-year-old Ukrainian gymnast who is forced to live in exile in Switzerland.

Determined to prove herself at the prestigious National Sports Center, Olga's hopes are disrupted when her family becomes involved in the Euromaidan revolution back in Ukraine. The escalating turmoil intensifies her personal and emotional challenges, pushing her to the edge.

The film distinguishes itself through a powerful and honest performance by a real-life Ukrainian gymnast, delivering stunning routines and heartfelt emotion. Olga offers a gripping exploration of resilience and sacrifice, as its heroine grapples with ambitions for athletic success against the backdrop of a nation in crisis.

"Days of Glory" (1985), written and directed by Bud Greenspan, offers an in-depth and captivating portrayal of the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. Spanning almost five hours, this documentary immerses viewers in the spectacle, passion, and unforgettable moments that defined the games.

The film features memorable highlights from the opening and closing ceremonies, with a particular focus on Mary Lou Retton's historic gymnastics triumph. It also showcases several other pivotal achievements that marked the event.

Beyond gymnastics, "Days of Glory" follows the inspiring Olympic journeys of swimmers Greg Louganis and Michael Gross, shining a spotlight on their determination and success.

A standout quality of the documentary is its dedication to presenting the Olympics through the firsthand experiences of the athletes. This powerful approach allows viewers to connect deeply with the emotional and human side of the competition.

If you thought you’d never come across a horror movie centered around gymnastics, think again. Directed by Hanna Bergholm, this unique film follows a young gymnast who is desperate to win the approval of her demanding mother.

Soon, she discovers a mysterious egg, secretly caring for it and keeping it warm. What unfolds after the egg hatches shocks the entire family in ways they could never have imagined.

The brilliance of this dark and twisted horror lies in its deeply rooted metaphors and powerful messages embedded throughout the narrative.

"Hatching" is an exceptionally fresh addition to our list, and it's likely one that many have yet to discover—making it a must-watch for fans seeking something different.

"Perfect Body" may not be the ideal film for body positivity, but it offers valuable insights into the struggles faced by gymnasts beyond their athletic abilities.

The story centers on a teenage gymnast who earns a spot at a prestigious training center in Seattle, aiming to qualify for the upcoming Olympic Games.

Soon after arrival, she begins battling an eating disorder—vomiting and starving herself—pressured by criticism regarding her weight. The film sensitively portrays her descent as she tries to cope with impossible expectations.

Amy Jo Johnson, herself a former competitive gymnast, delivers an authentic performance, skillfully combining her athletic and acting talents to bring depth and realism to this compelling drama.

Lefty is a heartwarming, family-friendly film that brings to life the true story of Carol Johnston, a remarkable one-armed gymnast. Featuring Johnston herself in the lead role, the movie delivers authentic, impressive gymnastics performances that add credibility to its inspiring narrative.

Although this classic title may be challenging to find today, it stands out for its uplifting and motivational storyline—making it a meaningful watch for aspiring gymnasts and anyone who appreciates stories of perseverance.

Directed by Todd Phillips, Old School brings comedic gold with a stellar cast including Luke Wilson, Vince Vaughn, and Will Ferrell in iconic roles. Their on-screen chemistry elevates the film's outrageous humor.

The story follows a lawyer desperate to recapture his college glory by starting a fraternity house near his former university. Rallying his two best friends to join, the trio quickly embark on a series of wild and hilarious adventures.

Among its standout moments, Old School delivers riotous Olympics-style competitions—including a hilariously memorable gymnastics sequence that proves both hilarious and disastrous for the characters involved.

This irreverent comedy guarantees plenty of laugh-out-loud scenes, even if it doesn't inspire you to try gymnastics yourself. Fans of Elf and Anchorman will especially appreciate the on-screen partnership between Luke Wilson and Will Ferrell in this must-see comedy classic.

"At The Heart of Gold: Inside The USA Gymnastics Scandal" is one of HBO's most gripping sports documentaries, offering an unflinching examination of the abuses perpetrated by disgraced US national team doctor Larry Nassar.

The film approaches the scandal with a clear, factual perspective, while also exploring the deep emotional impact and ongoing struggles faced by survivors and their families.

Renowned for its raw honesty, the documentary delivers a searing indictment of the institutions that failed to protect athletes, highlighting the systemic failures that allowed abuse to continue unchallenged.

It powerfully champions the importance of listening to and uplifting survivors, revealing how their courage is instrumental in demanding accountability from both individuals and organizations.

Ultimately, this documentary issues a compelling call to action, reminding viewers of the urgent need for reform, heightened athlete protections, and the relentless pursuit of justice for victims of abuse.

While Peyton Reed's energetic film isn't exclusively focused on gymnastics, we've included it on our list for a compelling reason that fans will appreciate.

"Bring It On" follows a high school cheerleading squad whose world is turned upside down when they discover their previous captain stole all their routines from a rival team.

With the championships approaching fast, the team must quickly craft original choreography and prove themselves on the biggest stage.

We've added this dynamic, cheerleading-centered comedy because cheerleading incorporates many demanding elements of gymnastics—making it a must-watch for gymnastics enthusiasts as well.

Directed by Raja Gosnell, "Never Been Kissed" follows the story of Josie, an editor who goes undercover at a high school to write an important exposé on student life.

As Josie navigates the challenges of blending in, she finds herself confronted by painful memories from her own high school days, making her assignment more complicated and personal.

This romantic comedy, which helped solidify Drew Barrymore's status as a leading actress in the late '90s, includes engaging scenes featuring high school gymnastics.

With an ensemble cast featuring Jessica Alba, David Arquette, Michael Vartan, Leelee Sobieski, Jeremy Jordan, Molly Shannon, Garry Marshall, John C. Reilly, and James Franco, the film remains a beloved teen classic from the late 1990s.

The Final Destination franchise is famous for its inventive and chilling death sequences. Interestingly, in the fifth installment, one of the most memorable and shocking moments centers on a gymnastics accident.

As disturbing as the scene is, it stands out as one of the movie’s most intense highlights. Directed by Steven Quale, the film follows Sam and his colleagues as they narrowly escape a deadly disaster after Sam experiences a haunting premonition.

Yet, despite their miraculous escape, the group soon finds themselves pursued by death, each character struggling to avoid their seemingly inevitable fate as the story unfolds.

For fans of the series, Final Destination 5 ranks among its strongest entries. Its inclusion on our list is well deserved, thanks in large part to the unforgettable and suspenseful gymnastics sequence.

Olympia Part One: Festival of the Nations, directed and written by Leni Riefenstahl, masterfully documents the grandeur of the 1936 Berlin Olympics with breathtaking cinematography.

Before diving in, know that the film is nearly four hours long and features minimal dialogue, relying almost exclusively on stunning visual storytelling to convey its message.

This documentary will captivate Olympic fans, yet its true impact comes from its innovative visuals and immersive portrayal of a pivotal moment in sports history.

Originally released in Germany as a two-part series, it remains a groundbreaking and influential work in the world of documentary filmmaking.

Directed by Marta Prus, "Over the Limit" provides an intimate, unfiltered glimpse into the demanding world of rhythmic gymnast Margarita Mamun as she prepares for the 2016 Olympic Games. The film documents her relentless training routine, capturing both the intensity and the emotional toll of elite sport.

This compelling documentary shadows Mamun's journey with the Russian National team, offering a close look at the uncompromising coaching methods of Irina Viner. Irina's tough approach challenges Mamun to reach her highest potential, revealing the often rough dynamics between athlete and coach.

While Mamun’s personal story remains central, "Over the Limit" also explores the immense pressures Olympic athletes face as they strive for excellence. The film sheds light on the sacrifices, ambition, and resilience needed to reach the top.

Adding further excitement is the riveting rivalry and friendship between Mamun and fellow gymnast Yana Kudryavtseva. Their competition on and off the mat keeps viewers engrossed, making this documentary a gripping portrait of determination and aspiration in the world of gymnastics.

Directed by Susanna Fogel, this action-comedy earned its place on our list thanks to a memorable antagonist with a background in gymnastics.

The Russian gymnast, who stands out as one of the film's more distinctive characters, adds excitement to the storyline and keeps audiences entertained.

The story centers on Audrey, who discovers her ex-boyfriend was a spy and embarks on a wild adventure with her best friend Morgan to prevent a mysterious trophy from falling into the wrong hands.

While critics expressed mixed feelings about the movie’s genre blend and comedic tone, they praised the lively performances by Mila Kunis and Kate McKinnon.

Directed by Leni Riefenstahl, "Olympia Part Two: Festival of Beauty" continues the story of the 1936 Berlin Olympics, following the acclaimed first film in the series. Though its origins are rooted in Nazi propaganda, the movie remains a landmark in cinematic history.

This second installment is particularly noteworthy for its exhilarating portrayal of athletic achievements, featuring mesmerizing gymnastics sequences among a variety of Olympic sports. These moments capture both the spirit and intensity of the Games.

The film is celebrated for its pioneering cinematic techniques, such as innovative slow-motion shots and expert rhythmic editing. These elements elevate the documentary’s artistry, making it a timeless and visually stunning portrayal of human athleticism.

Directed by Alan Metter, Girls Just Want to Have Fun follows Janey, a gifted gymnast who has always lived under the strict rules of her Army colonel father and avoided the spotlight.

Things change when Janey, new to the city, befriends Lynne, who shares her enthusiasm for dance—especially for the hit show "Dance TV." Their friendship and shared ambition face hurdles, particularly Janey's father's disapproval.

This energetic 1980s film stands out for its sharp humor, lively dance routines, and infectious soundtrack, offering a nostalgic and entertaining watch.

"Stick It" (2006), directed by Jessica Bendinger, is a standout film that authentically captures the world of gymnastics. This engaging story highlights not just the sport’s technical demands, but also the powerful determination and spirit that drive its athletes.

The movie honors the discipline, resilience, and passion that gymnasts pour into perfecting their craft, bringing both their struggles and triumphs vividly to the screen.

At the heart of the film is Haley, a rebellious teen who finds herself at an elite gymnastics academy. Under the stern guidance of Coach Vickerman, played by Jeff Bridges, Haley must confront her own challenges and work toward personal growth and redemption.

Written and directed by Szabolcs Hajdu, White Palms tells the compelling story of Miklos, a Hungarian gymnastics champion marked by his tumultuous childhood. Raised under a relentless Communist-era coach, Miklos's early experiences greatly influenced his perception of discipline and success.

Searching for a new start, Miklos moves to Canada, hoping to break free from his past. However, he finds himself unconsciously replicating the same harsh coaching methods with his young student, forcing him to confront the cycle of behavior he inherited.

Inspired by real-life events, White Palms explores the necessity of self-awareness, adaptability, and the courage needed to defy ingrained patterns. The film vividly contrasts Eastern and Western coaching philosophies, offering critical insight into their cultural impacts on athletes’ lives and personal growth.

Although this gymnastics comedy was produced by the Duplass Brothers, it struggled to win over critics and audiences alike. Much of the criticism stemmed from its confusing and often cringeworthy comedic moments, which many found more off-putting than entertaining.

Despite its uncertain direction, the film may still appeal to viewers interested in a raunchy, unconventional gymnastics movie. If you’re looking for something different in the genre, this movie could be worth a watch.

The story introduces us to former gymnastics bronze medalist Hope Ann Greggory, who reluctantly agrees to train a talented young gymnast, Maggie, preparing her for the upcoming Olympic Games.

"A State of Mind" is a captivating British documentary that delves into the world of the Mass Games, renowned as the largest choreographed gymnastics performance globally. The film uniquely chronicles the lives of two young North Korean gymnasts as they rigorously train and prepare for this extraordinary event.

Through their experiences, the documentary offers a rare glimpse into North Korean society, examining its complex cultural landscape and the country's interactions with the outside world. Viewers gain compelling insights into the aspirations, challenges, and daily realities of its people.

Given its in-depth portrayal of North Korea, "A State of Mind" has stirred debate, with some critics and audiences questioning whether the film serves as government propaganda. This has sparked conversations about the documentary's impartiality and intent, making it a thought-provoking watch.

"Jump Ashin!" is inspired by the true story of the director's brother. This heartfelt film follows a young Taiwanese boy with a natural talent for gymnastics who is excited to join his school's team and pursue his passion.

Tragically, his family's financial struggles force his mother to pull him away from gymnastics so he can help run their fruit stand. Torn between duty and his dreams, he faces the heartbreak of abandoning the sport he loves.

Even after hitting his lowest point, the boy's determination shines through. Refusing to give up, he rekindles his commitment and courageously returns to gymnastics to chase his dream once more.

"Peaceful Warrior," inspired by Dan Millman's best-selling memoir "Way of the Peaceful Warrior," is brought to life on screen by director Victor Salva. This uplifting drama centers on Dan, a talented college gymnast who is struggling to find deeper meaning and satisfaction beyond his athletic achievements.

After a transformative encounter with a mysterious stranger, Dan begins a journey of self-discovery that challenges his perspective on life and success. The mentorship he receives sheds light on the importance of mental clarity, resilience, and inner peace.

Blending moments of sadness and inspiration, "Peaceful Warrior" skillfully explores the emotional struggles of its protagonist. The film uses humor and poignancy to capture the process of mental and spiritual cleansing, making it both heartwarming and motivating for viewers.

Based on the McKenna books in the American Girl series written by Mary Casanova, this family drama has been helmed for the screen by Vince Marcello.

We are introduced to an aspiring young gymnast, McKenna Brooks, who wants nothing more than to excel at regional competitive gymnastics.

However, in her relentless pursuit of the same, she ends up ignoring her studies with serious repercussions. This is because little Brooks fails to balance her demanding life at school and her potential career as a gymnast.

While Jade Pettyjohn is thoroughly engaging in the titular role, the film also ends up providing clean and old-fashioned children's entertainment.

Directed and written by Ned Farr, The Gymnast tells the compelling story of Jane, a former elite gymnast navigating life after a devastating injury forced her early retirement.

Now in her 40s, Jane is presented with a unique opportunity to reignite her passion and reinvent herself, both emotionally and professionally. She partners with Serena to perform an exhilarating aerial dance, a journey that helps Jane escape the confines of an unsatisfying marriage and rediscover her true self.

While the film features captivating gymnastics performances, it also thoughtfully addresses significant issues including racism and sexual identity, adding emotional depth to Jane's inspiring journey.

Helmed for the screen by Sean Cisterna, Fall Out tells us the story of an ambitious fourteen-year-old gymnast, Ariana, who, unfortunately, meets with a car accident. Needless to say, her situation threatens to derail her lifelong dream of participating in the Olympic Games.

However, with tremendous help from UCLA's coach, she works to regain her confidence and her skills to find her way back to the sport.

In this young-adult television movie, Flashdance star Jennifer Beals has been appropriately cast as Ariana's coach.

Helmed for the screen by Clay Glen, Raising the Bar is a gymnastics movie that features a real-life gymnast and Olympic gold medalist Jordyn Wieber in a significant role.

The plot follows an elite gymnast, who quits the program and moves to Australia. While living her new life there, she decides not only to re-enter competitive gymnastics to help a new friend but also to try to make amends for her past.

We catch the protagonist renewing her love for the sport while trying to help her friend with it. This mildly entertaining drama focuses on a critical real-world issue such as cyberbullying, and can be a decent option for an audience looking for an inspirational tale to see.

Directed by Denisa Morariu-Tamas and Adrian Robe, The Golden Girl tells the remarkable story of Romanian gymnast Andreea Răducan and her determined battle against the International Olympic Committee.

The documentary focuses on her fight to reclaim the gold medal she earned at the 2000 Olympics, which was controversially stripped from her. It highlights the emotional and personal stakes involved in her pursuit of justice.

Utilizing archival footage and candid interviews, the film offers viewers valuable insight into why Răducan lost her medal, exploring the controversy and its lasting impact.

Now working as a sports announcer, Răducan’s quest to regain her gold medal 15 years later forms an inspiring and poignant narrative, making this documentary an engaging and unforgettable watch.

Directed by Isaakas Fridbergas and written by Igor Ageev, A Little Doll (1988) tells the powerful story of a young gymnast whose promising career is abruptly halted by a serious injury.

The film masterfully explores the deep psychological and emotional impact this trauma has on her, portraying not just her physical struggle but also the toll it takes on her mental well-being.

This dark and unsettling drama excels at gripping its audience, maintaining suspense and engagement from the opening scene to the unforgettable conclusion.

The remarkable performances, especially from the lead actress, give viewers an intimate look into the fragile psyche of a girl whose dreams have been shattered.

Be prepared for a haunting and memorable finale that lingers long after the credits roll.

Directed by Alan Cooke, "Nadia" tells the inspiring story of Romanian gymnast Nadia Comaneci, renowned for scoring the world's first perfect 10 in gymnastics.

This family-friendly film from 1984 captures Nadia's humble beginnings, discovered in a playground, and follows her extraordinary rise to win three gold medals as a teenager at the 1976 Olympic Games, solidifying her status as a gymnastics legend.

"Nadia" offers insight into the intense dedication and hard work required to excel in gymnastics, highlighting the perseverance needed for greatness.

The film also sheds light on how aspiring gymnasts often begin rigorous training at a young age, providing a glimpse into the demanding journey toward achieving their Olympic dreams.

Directed by Anthony Wonke, Gymnast (2011) is an insightful documentary that delves into the demanding world of competitive gymnastics, highlighting the emotional and physical challenges gymnasts face as they strive for Olympic glory.

The film closely follows the journey of the British gymnastics team as they prepare for the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, showcasing their dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence.

Anthony Wonke, celebrated for his gripping portrayal of elite athletes—including football star Cristiano Ronaldo—brings his expert storytelling to this film, offering a compelling look behind the scenes of a high-stakes sport.

With Gymnast, Wonke once again proves his talent for capturing the human stories at the heart of sporting achievement.

In this Paul Lynch-helmed Canadian drama, we are introduced to a high school student who is a skillful gymnast.

However, we soon find her getting seriously injured in a car accident. Now, it is on her to prove if her dreams are indeed strong enough to stand the test of time, or if her harsh reality can end up taking the better of them.

Headlined by Olivia d'Abo, Rita Tushingham, and Keanu Reeves, Teenage Dream, which is also known as Flying, was first screened at the Cannes Film Festival in 1986.

As its title suggests, this Jay Karas directorial venture tracks the journey of classmates Ellie O'Brien and Jack Malloy after a mysterious phenomenon causes them to swap bodies.

Needless to say, they are forced to withstand complex family drama and school-life issues in each other's lives.

While they have enough problems to deal with already, they must get back into their own bodies for there's a major risk of missing out on a rhythmic gymnastics championship and a spot on the varsity hockey team.

The Swap is a teen drama that starts slow but gathers momentum as it progresses. Its story also reminds you of the entertaining Disney movie Freaky Friday, starring Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan in the lead.

Helmed for the screen by Christopher Leitch, this Lifetime Original Movie is based on Joan Ryan's best-selling non-fiction book, Little Girls in Pretty Boxes: The Making and Breaking of Elite Gymnasts and Figure Skaters.

The made-for-TV movie tells the story of a woman, who believes that her talented gymnast daughter might be troubled by the harsh regimen of the girl's world-class coach.

While the 'gymnastics' performances in this feature are truly good, the viewers also get to see the famous Deaf gymnast Aimee Walker working her .agic in it.

Little Girls in Pretty Boxes tries to document the crazy treatment of gymnasts as mentioned in the book rather melodramatically for the big screen.

"The Gabby Douglas Story" (2014) is an inspiring Lifetime biopic that chronicles the remarkable journey of Gabby Douglas. Overcoming numerous obstacles, Gabby made history as the first African-American woman to become the Olympic individual all-around champion in artistic gymnastics at the 2012 London Games.

The film offers an in-depth look at Gabby's dedication and relentless training, showcasing her partnership with coach Liang Chow, a former artistic gymnast, who played a pivotal role in her success.

Directed by Gregg Champion, the movie delivers an empathetic portrayal of Gabby’s sacrifices and drive, highlighting the resilience and perseverance that led her to Olympic glory.

Undoubtedly, "The Gabby Douglas Story" stands out as one of the most compelling gymnastics films on our list, promising to uplift and inspire anyone who watches it.