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Stay on Board: The Leo Baker Story
By Sabrina McFarland,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Skater seeks true self in gender-identity docu; language.
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Stay on Board: The Leo Baker Story
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What's the Story?
In STAY ON BOARD: THE LEO BAKER STORY, the then 27-year-old U.S. skateboarder aims to participate in the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, Japan. Baker is a legendary champion who was once known professionally as Lacey Baker but has been Leo for years. The movie follows the Covina, California, native as he explores the possibly of transition surgery while also trying to navigate a successful sports career in the gender-defined skateboarding industry
Is It Any Good?
Viewers can assuredly embrace this inspiring and down-to-earth documentary about self-discovery. "I think I was three years old, and I'd stand outside and watch my two foster brothers skate," recalls Baker in Stay on Board: The Leo Baker Story. "I would skate all the time and try to learn how to kickflip." Baker, who was assigned female at birth, also reflects on the moments "when I was younger, I remember just being like, 'No, like I'm a boy.'"
As an adult, Baker is determined to go for the dream of becoming a pro skateboarder and also considers transition surgery while experiencing "like I'm living a split life" in the gender-specific sport. With support from family and friends, Baker contemplates life-defining decisions and gets favorable feedback. "I think about kids," says Baker's mom Donna, "that never have that opportunity to have a parent that they could come to and say, 'You know what mom? I'm gay. You know what mom, I'm trans.' And it's OK."
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the perseverance of Leo Baker in Stay on Board: The Leo Baker Story. How does Baker also demonstrate courage and communication? Why are these important character strengths?
How does the cast display teamwork within the sport? What are the possible benefits of having a helpful network of family and friends?
Trans athletes competing in sports is a timely discussion topic. Should sports be gender specific? Why or why not?
Do you agree with Baker's final decision about the Olympics? Why or why not?
Would you pursue a pro skateboarding career? Why or why not? What are the positive and negative aspects to consider?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: August 11, 2022
- Cast: Leo Baker , Melissa Bueno-Woerner , Tony Hawk
- Directors: Nicola Marsh , Giovanni Reda
- Inclusion Information: Lesbian actors, Queer actors, Latino actors
- Studio: Netflix
- Genre: Documentary
- Topics: Activism , Sports and Martial Arts , Friendship
- Character Strengths: Communication , Courage , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time: 73 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: February 17, 2023
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