Strive
By Joly Herman,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Athletes with incredible stories share strength and hope.
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Strive
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What's the Story?
STRIVE looks at the lives of elite athletes who have escaped war-ravaged homelands or oppressive regimes to pursue their Olympic dreams. A skateboarder from Yemen aims to represent his small, war-torn country. A runner from Southern Sudan, who was abandoned by his family at the age of 10, attempts to make the Olympic Refugee team from his adopted home in Iowa. Iranian taekwondo and kayak competitors work to represent refugees in the Olympic games. Narrated by barrier-breaking African American Olympic medal-winning gymnast Gabby Douglas, these stories give an in-depth look at the struggles and perils that many people experience the world over. But because they are competing on a world stage, these elite athletes get to voice their experience to audiences who might otherwise take their presence in the Olympic games for granted.
Is It Any Good?
Stories of oppression and survival serve a purpose in this well-documented series. Inspiration -- an elusive and overused word -- finds fresh meaning thanks to the narratives in Strive. While watching a race between runners from different countries might excite viewers enough to rattle a bowl of popcorn, knowing the stories of individuals who've endured incredible political and personal hardship will have viewers standing up and cheering when they show their stuff on the world stage. In short, this series helps audiences engage with their hearts, inspiring a compassion for the human condition and the sacrifices are made by people across the globe.
Kids will appreciate seeing the every-day qualities of these elite athletes-- the Yemeni skateboarder doesn't have rad gear or even the right clothes. He skates in shorts and a button-down shirt; but his passion is contagious. Parents will appreciate the geo-political lessons that will deepen their understanding of the struggles that others might endure to reach their goals. Timely and evocative viewing for a world in flux.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about diversity and representation in Strive. Can you relate to the stories told here? How can you work to include more diverse experiences in your life?
The stories of these athletes show what they've endured to get to their goals. How do these stories work to open your mind and heart? Do you empathize with the people who tell them?
Leaving a country to start a new life requires tremendous courage. What do you do in your life -- big or small -- that require you to be courageous?
TV Details
- Premiere date: June 30, 2021
- Network: YouTube Premium
- Genre: Reality TV
- Topics: Activism , Sports and Martial Arts , Great Boy Role Models , Great Girl Role Models
- TV rating: TV-PG
- Last updated: August 27, 2021
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
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