Get ready to tumble into the ultimate cheerleading movie lineup! There’s a colorful new addition to the cheerleading genre – and it’s a real standout. “Backspot,” hitting theaters and on demand this Friday, follows the journey of an ambitious athlete, played by Devery Jacobs, who navigates the intense world of all-star cheerleading. This film joins the ranks of iconic cheer movies like “Bring It On” and “Fired Up” adding depth and drama to our beloved sport.
We’re counting down the top 10 cheer movies that capture the excitement and energy of cheerleading. (And remember, in the world of cheer, it’s not a democracy – it’s a cheerocracy!)
10. ‘All Cheerleaders Die’ (2014)
Who says cheerleading and horror don’t mix? This vengeful tale stars Caitlin Stasey as a high school senior with a score to settle. After a fatal accident and a bit of magic, she and her squad come back as undead menaces. Think “Cheerleader Camp” meets “The Walking Dead.”
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
9. ‘Zombies’ (2018)
A perfect gateway for younger fans into the world of cheerleading and horror. Meg Donnelly stars as Addison, a high school cheerleader who falls for a football-playing zombie, Zed. It’s got peppy songs, a love story, and a nice little social message.
Where to watch: Disney+
8. ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ (1992)
Before the iconic TV show, there was this campy classic. Kristy Swanson stars as Buffy, a cheerleader destined to fight vampires. With a cast including Luke Perry and Donald Sutherland, it’s a nostalgic ride through a vampire-slaying cheerleader’s world.
Where to watch: On-demand platforms [Amazon Prime Video]
7. ‘Bottoms’ (2023)
High school outcasts Rachel Sennott and Ayo Edebiri start a fight club to hook up with cheerleader crushes, leading to a hilarious and empowering adventure. This teen comedy packs a punch, literally and figuratively.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
6. ‘Jennifer’s Body’ (2009)
Megan Fox stars as a cheerleader turned succubus in this cult classic horror-comedy. With Amanda Seyfried as her best friend trying to stop her, this film mixes satire, horror, and a sharp take on female sexuality.
Where to watch: On-demand platforms
5. ‘Man of the House’ (2005)
When five college cheerleaders witness a violent crime, a Texas Ranger (Tommy Lee Jones) goes undercover as a cheerleading coach and moves into a house with the young women to protect them during the investigation. Of course, the unlikely pairing pays off for both the curmudgeonly officer and the peppy athletes in the end.
Where to watch: On-demand platforms
4. ‘Sugar & Spice’ (2001)
Picture this: a group of cheerleaders turning to a life of crime. This comedy, featuring Marley Shelton and Mena Suvari, is a quirky blast from the past. After getting kicked out of their homes, Diane (Shelton) and her quarterback beau (James Marsden) decide bank robbery might just be the way to go. The result? A hilarious crime spree in doll masks.
Where to watch: On-demand platforms
3. ‘Fired Up!’ (2009)
In Will Gluck’s high school comedy, two football players (Eric Christian Olsen and Nicholas D’Agosto), dreading the prospect of another summer at all-male football camp, get the bright idea to go to cheerleading camp instead, where they would be surrounded by hundreds of female cheerleaders. Once at camp, however, they discover that they actually like cheerleading — and that there’s more to it than girls in tiny outfits.
Where to watch: On-demand platforms [Amazon Prime Video]
2. ‘Backspot’ (2024)
Devery Jacobs brings her A-game in this gripping drama. Playing Riley, an ambitious cheerleader, she faces intense pressure and emotional challenges in the all-star cheer world. With Evan Rachel Wood as her demanding coach, this film dives deep into the high-stakes world of competitive cheer.
Where to watch: In theaters and on-demand platforms
1. ‘Bring It On’ (2000)
No cheer movie list is complete without this classic. Kirsten Dunst stars as Torrance, the cheer captain who discovers her team’s moves were stolen. This film set the bar high for cheer movies with its energetic performances and iconic routines.
Where to watch: On-demand platforms [Amazon Prime Video]
From glitter and glitz to grit and grind, these cheer movies have it all. Whether you’re a die-hard cheer fan or just looking for a fun flick, this list has something for everyone. Grab your popcorn, hit play, and get ready to cheer on!
Don’t just take our word for it – dive into these cheer-tastic films and see for yourself! Did we miss your favorite cheer movie? Share your thoughts and join the conversation by submitting an article or leaving a comment on our Contact Us page.
