12 Documentaries That Celebrate the Legacy of Simone Biles
A Must-Watch List
Simone Biles, the most decorated gymnast in history, has captivated the world with her remarkable athletic prowess and resilience. Her journey through triumphs and challenges has been the subject of several compelling documentaries, offering fans a deeper glimpse into her life beyond the gymnastics mat. These documentaries not only highlight her incredible achievements but also shed light on her personal struggles and triumphs off the field.
From her early beginnings to her spectacular return to the sport, each film provides a unique perspective on Biles' enduring legacy. Through these works, viewers gain insight into the dedication, perseverance, and strength that have defined her career and inspired many around the globe.
1) Courage to Soar: The Simone Biles Story (2018)
"Courage to Soar: The Simone Biles Story" is a biographical TV movie about Simone Biles' journey to becoming one of the greatest gymnasts in history.
The film depicts Biles' life, from her early challenges and the sacrifices she made to her monumental achievements in gymnastics.
Jeanté Godlock portrays Simone Biles, while Tisha Campbell-Martin and Julius Tennon play key roles. The movie draws from Biles' autobiography, "Courage to Soar: A Body in Motion, A Life in Balance."
Directed by Vanessa Parise, the narrative covers Biles' inspiring journey and the trials she overcame to win 19 Olympic and World Championship medals. It presents a comprehensive look at her dedication and hard work.
This film originally premiered on Lifetime and serves as an inspiring portrayal for those interested in Biles' life and accomplishments.
For more information, visit the IMDb page.
2) Simone Biles: Golden Girl (2016)
"Simone Biles: Golden Girl" traces the gymnast's journey to becoming one of the most decorated athletes in gymnastics history. The documentary highlights Biles' record-breaking performances and her path to the 2016 Rio Olympics.
The film explores her achievements, including her 19 world championship medals and 5 Olympic medals.
Beyond the medals and titles, "Golden Girl" delves into Biles' personal struggles and triumphs. The documentary provides insights into her early life and challenges, offering a deeper understanding of the resilience and determination that fuel her success.
Produced by FloGymnastics, the documentary captures the essence of Biles' dedication and hard work. It serves as an inspiring testament to her impact on the sport.
Watch "Simone Biles: Golden Girl" on Vimeo for a closer look at her extraordinary career.
3) The Weight of Gold (2020)
"The Weight of Gold" is a poignant documentary that delves into the mental health struggles faced by Olympic athletes, including Simone Biles.
This film features interviews with several Olympians who speak candidly about the pressures and challenges of competing at the highest level. Simone Biles shares her personal experiences, highlighting the immense stress she faced throughout her career.
The documentary underscores the often-overlooked mental health aspects of athletic performance. Biles' insights are particularly significant, given her status as one of the most decorated gymnasts in history.
"The Weight of Gold" provides a platform for athletes to discuss the psychological toll of their careers. Biles' participation brings attention to the broader conversation about mental health in sports, showing it's an issue that can affect even the best.
For more information, please visit the IMDb page for The Weight of Gold (2020).
4) Simone vs Herself (2021)
"Simone vs Herself" is a docuseries that provides an intimate look at Simone Biles’ life, both on and off the gymnastics mat. The series takes viewers behind the scenes and explores the immense challenges and pressures she faces as a world-class athlete.
The docuseries delves into Biles' training regimen, her struggles with the postponement of the Olympics, and the weight of enormous expectations placed upon her. By focusing on her personal journey, the series highlights how Biles continuously competes not just with others, but with herself.
Featuring insights from her coaches Laurent Landi and Cécile Canqueteau-Landi, "Simone vs Herself" sheds light on the dedication and resilience required at the highest levels of gymnastics. The series is notable for its candid moments, where Biles opens up about her experiences and aspirations.
This docuseries is an essential watch for fans who want to understand more about the mental and physical challenges faced by one of the greatest gymnasts of all time. It provides a deeper appreciation of Biles' journey and the perseverance that defines her legacy.
For more information, visit the IMDB page.
5) Raising an Olympian: Simone Biles
"Raising an Olympian: Simone Biles" (2016) is a documentary dedicated to exploring the early life and development of Simone Biles, one of the greatest gymnasts in history.
It provides an intimate look at her childhood, showcasing the support from her adoptive grandparents who played a crucial role in her upbringing.
The film emphasizes the rigorous training and personal sacrifices required to become an Olympic champion. Viewers gain insight into the determination and resilience that drove Simone to excel in her field.
By featuring interviews with family members and coaches, the documentary also highlights the community surrounding Simone, which was essential to her success.
The narrative is supported by footage of her training sessions and early competitions, illustrating her rapid rise in the world of gymnastics.
For those interested in how a young athlete blossoms into an Olympic star, "Raising an Olympian: Simone Biles" offers valuable perspectives.
6) Athlete A (2020)
"Athlete A" is a powerful documentary that exposed systemic issues within USA Gymnastics.
Released in 2020, the film sheds light on the survivors of Larry Nassar's abuse and the investigative reporting by journalists from The Indianapolis Star.
Simone Biles is not the central figure, but the documentary provides important context for her advocacy for athlete safety and mental health.
The documentary features interviews with several survivors and outlines the extensive failings within the organization responsible for protecting gymnasts.
Her advocacy work aligns closely with the issues highlighted in "Athlete A," making it a significant documentary to watch to understand the broader environment in which she has competed and spoken out.
For more information, visit Athlete A on IMDb.
7) Golden: The Journey of USA's Elite Gymnasts (2020)
"Golden: The Journey of USA's Elite Gymnasts" is a docuseries that provides an in-depth look at the lives and challenges of top American gymnasts. This series was filmed before the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and highlights the athletes' journeys as they compete for spots on the Team USA Olympic roster.
The series features prominent gymnasts such as Laurie Hernandez, Sunisa Lee, MyKayla Skinner, and Konnor McClain. It captures their training sessions, personal struggles, and the immense pressure they face as they aim to qualify for the Olympics.
Peacock's original series offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the sport of gymnastics. It also sheds light on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their training routines and the postponement of the Olympics. The emotional and physical toll of this period is evident throughout the series, providing viewers with a comprehensive understanding of what elite gymnasts endure.
For more information on the documentary, you can visit IMDb: Golden: The Journey of USA's Elite Gymnasts.
8) Simone Biles: Defying Gravity (2024)
"Simone Biles: Defying Gravity" is a documentary released in 2024, offering an intricate portrayal of the gymnast's life and career.
This Netflix film delves into Biles' journey, showcasing her path from a young athlete to a global gymnastics icon.
It highlights her numerous achievements, including her multiple Olympic gold medals and her return to prominence in 2024.
The documentary combines intimate interviews, archival footage, and behind-the-scenes moments.
Fans get an inside look at Biles' training routines, personal challenges, and triumphs.
"Simone Biles: Defying Gravity" is an inspiring story of resilience, determination, and excellence in gymnastics.
For more information, visit IMDb.
9) Pursuit of Greatness: Simone Biles (2024)
The documentary "Pursuit of Greatness: Simone Biles" offers an intimate look into the life and career of one of gymnastics' greatest athletes.
This film captures Biles' journey as she prepares for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, highlighting her resilience and determination.
The documentary goes beyond the gym, showcasing her personal struggles and triumphs.
It also includes interviews with her coaches and family members, providing a comprehensive view of the factors contributing to her success.
Showing Biles' comeback after withdrawing from most events at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, it emphasizes her mental and emotional growth.
For more details, visit the film's IMDb page here.
10) Dominating Gymnastics: The Simone Biles Way
Simone Biles has become synonymous with gymnastics excellence.
Her ability to perform complex routines with unmatched precision sets her apart.
The upcoming documentary offers a glimpse into her rigorous training regimen.
It showcases her journey, detailing the highs and lows she faced.
Biles' techniques and sheer determination are front and center.
The film includes behind-the-scenes footage, providing insight into her personal struggles and triumphs.
Clips from the Tokyo 2020 Olympics highlight her decision to withdraw, explaining the mental and physical pressures she faced.
It also captures her comeback, focusing on how she regained her confidence and drive.
This documentary shines a light on Biles' resilience.
Viewers get to see the support system of family, friends, and coaches who help her succeed.
It premieres on Netflix and offers a compelling look at one of the greatest athletes of our time. Learn more on IMDB (2024).
11) Simone Biles: Unstoppable (2023)
Simone Biles: Unstoppable provides an intimate look into the life of one of the greatest gymnasts of all time. Released in 2023, this documentary captures her journey post-2020 Tokyo Olympics.
The film highlights her struggle with mental health and her determination to return to competitive gymnastics. It emphasizes the physical and emotional resilience that defines her legacy.
Beyond the gym, viewers see Simone balancing her personal life, including her high-profile marriage. This documentary portrays not just a sports icon but a woman of immense strength and depth.
Learn more about Simone Biles: Unstoppable on IMDb
12) Breaking Barriers: Simone Biles' Story
"Breaking Barriers: Simone Biles' Story" examines how Simone Biles has continually shattered expectations in the world of gymnastics.
The documentary focuses on Biles' unprecedented achievements and the obstacles she has overcome.
From her record-breaking performances to her advocacy for mental health, the film highlights her resilience and determination.
This documentary also sheds light on the cultural and societal challenges she faced as an African American athlete in a predominantly white sport.
It offers insights into the physical and mental discipline required to compete at the highest levels.
Released in 2024, it provides a comprehensive look at her contributions to gymnastics and beyond. More details can be found here.
Impact on Women's Gymnastics
Simone Biles has redefined what is possible in women's gymnastics, both by setting unprecedented athletic standards and by serving as an inspirational figure for new generations.
Inspirational Role Model for Young Athletes
Simone Biles stands as a testament to what can be achieved with dedication and resilience. Her journey from a young girl practicing in hometown gyms to becoming one of the most decorated gymnasts in history inspires countless young athletes.
Her openness about the pressures and challenges she has faced, including mental health struggles, encourages aspiring gymnasts to prioritize their well-being. This level of transparency has made mental health a prominent conversation in sports, especially in gymnastics, where perfect routines can overshadow personal struggles.
The release of documentaries like Simone Biles Rising highlights her return to the Olympic spotlight and sheds light on her personal and professional triumphs and challenges. Her influence goes beyond her medals and has instilled a sense of empowerment in many young athletes who now see both success and vulnerability as parts of the journey.
Advancements in Athletic Standards
Simone Biles has revolutionized gymnastics with her extraordinary skills and innovation. She has several signature moves, such as the Biles I and Biles II, moves so challenging that they are recognized by her name and rarely attempted by others. These moves have pushed the sport's technical boundaries and set new standards for excellence and difficulty.
Her performances have led to changes in scoring systems to account for the complexity and risk of her routines. This has influenced the expectations of what female gymnasts can achieve and has prompted competitors to elevate their own performances in response.
Biles' impact is evident in how judges and athletes now approach the sport, valuing not only artistic performance but also groundbreaking athleticism. Her legacy in advancing the athletic standards of women's gymnastics is cemented through the higher bar she has set for future gymnasts worldwide.
Challenges and Triumphs
Simone Biles' career has been marked by numerous challenges, ranging from physical injuries to advocating for mental health. She continues to inspire through her remarkable perseverance and success.
Overcoming Injuries and Setbacks
Simone Biles' journey has not been without physical hardships. Injuries have been a significant part of her career, impacting her training and competition schedule.
During the 2018 World Championships, she competed with a kidney stone, demonstrating her dedication and resilience. Withdrawing from several events at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics (held in 2021) due to a mental block known as "the twisties," Biles prioritized her well-being, bringing attention to the physical risks gymnasts face.
Recovering from these setbacks, she has shown remarkable determination, returning to compete at the highest levels, including aiming for the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Mental Health Advocacy
Simone Biles has become a strong advocate for mental health, particularly in the world of sports. Her decision to step back from several competitions in Tokyo due to mental health concerns opened a global dialogue on the pressures athletes face.
Biles has been candid about her struggles with anxiety and the importance of mental well-being, emphasizing that mental health is as crucial as physical health.
Her advocacy extends beyond gymnastics, resonating with many and inspiring other athletes to speak up about their challenges. This aspect of her journey highlights her strength and commitment to being a role model, making significant contributions to the ongoing conversation about mental health in sports.
