“Simone Biles Rising,” a new Netflix docuseries, follows the famous US gymnast’s return to the Olympics after withdrawing from the Tokyo Games four years ago. Despite being the most decorated gymnast in Olympic history, Biles experienced major physical and mental problems, resulting in a miserable experience in 2020.
The series delves into her personal and professional development over the last three years as she prepares for Paris, emphasizing her rise to the top of gymnastics despite the sport’s toxic climate. If you’re wondering if “Simone Biles Rising” is worth watching, keep reading this review!
A Night That Changed Everything: The 2020 Tokyo Olympics
“Simone Biles Rising” begins with a bittersweet look back at the key night that changed Simone Biles’ professional path: the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Biles and her squad were put under a lot of pressure due to tight COVID-19 rules, which included separation from their families.
Biles’ out-of-character performance in the vault final highlighted the immense pressure she was under. The docuseries goes frankly into the immense difficulties Biles faced, which eventually led to her withdrawal from the majority of the Olympics, eliciting both empathy and criticism.
The series seamlessly integrates Biles’ comeback story with a thorough documentary about her life and career. Beginning in Tokyo and progressing to her preparations for Paris, it goes into her childhood, early gymnastics career, and personal experiences.
Interviews with fellow gymnasts such as Dominique Dawes and current colleagues punctuate the story, providing more insight into the competitive and often harsh environment of elite American gymnastics. These portions provide context for Biles’ decisions and the overall impact on her trip.
“Simone Biles Rising” succeeds in humanizing Biles beyond her athletic achievements by depicting her determination in the face of significant hurdles. It emphasizes the challenges of elite sports, mental health, and the supportive camaraderie of gymnastics. As Biles prepares for Paris, the series promises an uplifting story of redemption and endurance, following her journey from adversity to probable Olympic success once more.
Personal Struggles Shown in Simone Biles Rising
Biles frankly expresses her genuine emotions in the aftermath, recording herself battling with humiliation and confusion, admitting to having grave doubts about her future in gymnastics.
She tells us about her difficult life, which included time in foster care before being adopted by her grandparents. Addressing the pain caused by former USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar, Biles navigates the complications of being a survivor and advocate in public.
Furthermore, Biles considers the racial dynamics of gymnastics, whose standards have traditionally rewarded white competitors, which contrasts with her own identity as a black woman in the sport.
Her perspective on Tokyo as a trauma-inducing experience offers light on the enormous difficulties she faced throughout her career. “Simone Biles Rising” depicts Biles’ determination, challenging stereotypes about mental health in athletics and emphasizing her fight to retake her place at the summit of gymnastics.
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Conclusion
“Simone Biles Rising” is a compelling docuseries that offers an intimate look at the gymnast’s resilience and growth. It effectively blends her personal and professional struggles, providing a candid portrayal of her journey from Tokyo’s heartbreak to her preparations for Paris.
Through insightful interviews and Biles’ own reflections, the series highlights the immense pressures of elite gymnastics and the strength required to overcome them. It challenges stereotypes about mental health in sports and underscores Biles’ determination to reclaim her place at the top. This inspiring narrative makes “Simone Biles Rising” a must-watch for fans and newcomers alike.