Common Sense Media Review
By Barbara Shulgasser-Parker
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
True story of gymnast who overcame multiple obstacles.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Full Out
What's the Story?
FULL OUT is based on the true story of high schooler and competitive gymnast Ariana Berlin (Ana Golji of TV's Degrassi), who suffered two broken legs, broken ribs, a broken wrist, and punctured lungs, as well as a collar bone injury, in a major car accident and was told by doctors that gymnastics would probably be off the table for her even after recovery. Grueling rehab, depression, and continuing pain didn't stop her from trying. In the film, her supportive physical therapist Michelle (Asha Bromfield) is a hip-hop dancer in her spare time, and to lift Ariana's spirits and give her a sense of purpose, she invites the gymnast to help her dance group improve their techniques. Strong bonds form. Ariana's best friend, Isla (Sarah Fisher), is accepted onto the famed UCLA women's gymnastics team and also makes the Olympic team, two of Ariana's personal goals, which causes a rift between them. Will Ariana have the strength to keep working hard to reach her goals?
Is It Any Good?
Originally a Lifetime film, this follows the worn path of other movies about athletes overcoming debilitating obstacles, but, like many such offerings, it's surprisingly fun to watch. Ana Golja is a pert and engaging dancer, and her performances with a great troupe of hip-hop dancers are nicely choreographed and pleasing. In a lovely touch, the filmmakers of Full Out enlisted Berlin to play herself, doubling for Golja in all the gymnastics routines. It's also fun to see outtakes of scenes in which the actual UCLA coach Valorie Kondos Field (played by the far-too-tall Jennifer Beals) is a judge, and three Olympic medalists make cameos. "Tall" and "gymnast" don't usually go together, so gymnasts watching will probably find such casual casting puzzling.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what it takes to overcome setbacks. What are some character strengths Ariana displayed in her return to gymnastics after her accident?
Full Out suggests that going outside your discipline to learn from others can help enrich your expertise in your own area. How do you think injection of hip-hop dance elements changed Ariana's gymnastics performances?
What did you think of the UCLA coach? Did she seem harsh? Did she also seem supportive? What are the best ways coaches can motivate their athletes to perform at the highest level?
Movie Details
- In theaters : September 11, 2015
- On DVD or streaming : July 1, 2016
- Cast : Ana Golja , Jennifer Beals , Sarah Fisher , Lamar Johnson , Robbie Graham-Kuntz
- Director : Sean Cisterna
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Black Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Netflix
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Character Strengths : Perseverance
- Run time : 90 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 26, 2024
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