Cheer Daily recently had the fantastic opportunity to catch up with Julie Reginato, who stars as one of the Thunderhawks Cheerleaders in the now streaming movie “Backspot.” Julie’s journey from a young gymnast to a featured cheerleader on the big screen is nothing short of inspiring. Here’s a glimpse into her experiences and insights from filming “Backspot.”
Julie Reginato’s path to cheerleading began in an unexpected place: the world of gymnastics. Growing up, she was captivated by the intense athleticism and grace of gymnastics. However, her passion took a turn when she discovered All Star Cheer through the Netflix show “CHEER.” This new world ignited a spark within her, leading her to pursue cheerleading with unwavering determination. Currently, Julie coaches and cheers at Cheer Fuzion Allstars in Ontario, Canada. She credits the gym’s mother-daughter owners for helping her achieve her dreams.
“It’s still surreal to me,” she shared. “One minute, I was a twelve-year-old dreaming of being in a movie, and the next, I’m eighteen, watching myself on the big screen all because of the sport I love.”
Filming “Backspot” was an exhilarating experience for Julie. The energy on set was infectious, driven by the camaraderie among the cast and crew. Many of the cheerleaders in the film were her teammates from Cheer Fuzion, while others came from Western University. Julie described how quickly they bonded, creating an environment of mutual support and enthusiasm.
“The atmosphere was always electric. We worked so well together and made the most out of every moment. If I could go back and relive a day, I would,” she said.
When asked about her most memorable moments on set, Julie didn’t hesitate. She fondly recalled a day when the cast took a group photo lying on the cheer floor. Another highlight was being surprised with smoothie shots after a long day of filming stunts. But the ultimate moment was filming the big competition scene, which was shot in one continuous take.
“The competition scene was intense. We did about 14 full-outs to get the perfect shot, and having younger girls from Cheer Fuzion in the stands cheering us on was incredible. It felt like a real competition,” Julie recounted.
Being a part of “Backspot” has profoundly influenced Julie’s view of both cheerleading and filmmaking. She gained a newfound appreciation for the behind-the-scenes work that brings a movie to life, from costumes to production design. Working alongside talented actors and a dedicated crew, she learned the importance of teamwork and professionalism.
“The cast and crew became like a family. Seeing the actors snap in and out of character with such skill was amazing,” Julie said. “Everyone was so supportive and friendly, even after filming wrapped.”
Q&A with Julie
Q: How did you prepare for your role in “Backspot”?
Julie: Since I’ve been an all star cheerleader for over six years, the role came naturally to me. We had two rehearsals before filming, one for choreography and another to refine the routine. It was an incredible experience.
Q: What was the hardest scene to film?
Julie: Definitely the competition scene. We had to reset and start over multiple times, but the crew took excellent care of us with food, drinks, and touchups. Despite the challenges, it was rewarding to see the final product.
Q: Can you share a funny story from the set?
Julie: On our last day of filming, we put Evan Rachel Wood in a double base stunt! The whole set erupted in laughter. It was moments like these that made the experience unforgettable.
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring cheerleaders?
Julie: Cheer is a demanding sport, both physically and mentally. Be kind to yourself and prioritize your safety. Don’t be afraid to chase your dreams. Hard work pays off, and you never know what opportunities might come your way.
Q: How do you hope the audience will react to “Backspot”?
Julie: I hope they love it as much as we do. The movie is empowering and captures a wide range of emotions. I hope it inspires cheerleaders, girls, women, and the queer community to pursue their dreams with passion and determination.
Julie’s journey from a young gymnast to starring in “Backspot” highlights the power of perseverance and the unique bond within the cheerleading community. Her experience on set underscores the dedication required in the sport and the incredible friendships formed along the way. Julie’s story is a powerful reminder that with hard work and support, any dream is achievable.
As “Backspot” streams into homes worldwide, it offers a raw and inspiring look at the life of cheerleaders. This movie is a must-watch for cheer fanatics and anyone motivated by stories of determination and heart. We are excited to share Julie’s journey and bring you more insider stories from the world of cheerleading.
Where to Watch & Stream “Backspot”
Stay tuned to Cheer Daily for exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes insights, and the latest cheerleading news. Keep cheering, and remember—every flip, stunt, and cheer brings you closer to your dreams.
