American Anthem

American Anthem is a 1986 sports drama film that introduced audiences to the high-stakes world of professional gymnastics. Directed by Albert Magnoli (of Purple Rain fame), the movie presents a kinetic and compelling portrayal of the grit, passion, and determination needed to strive in the competitive field of gymnastics. The narrative provides an insight into the trials and tribulations, the soaring highs and soul-crushing lows that come with the pursuit of an Olympic dream.

Leading the cast is Mitchell Gaylord, an Olympic gold medallist in real life, who slips into the role of Steve Tevere, a gifted but disillusioned gymnast with a promising career. Steve's early success on the high bars is quickly mired in personal and professional setbacks, with his tumultuous home life and propensity for self-sabotage lending a layer of complexity to his character. Gaylord, with his authentic background in the sport, translates his own experiences into the character, offering an impassioned performance that blends acting and incredible gymnastics sequences seamlessly.

Enter Julie Lloyd, a burgeoning gymnastics talent passionate about making it to the Olympics, played by Janet Jones. Julie's character embodies the grueling dedication required to compete at the top level while navigating personal commitments and ambitions. Her character sketch showcases a strong, independent young woman devoted to her sport with unwavering resolve. Their paths cross at a local gymnastics training center, setting the basis for a tale of ambition, love, and redemption to unfold.

But it wouldn't be a proper sports drama without a dash of rivalry. Steve’s adversary is played by none other than the exuberant actor Tiny Wells, who brings the antagonistic edge to the film. Well’s character is a stark contrast to Steve’s, imbued with a ruthless ambition that often blinds him to the essence of fair play.

Director Albert Magnoli employs an intimate storytelling approach to bring the characters to life, imbuing the narrative with a sense of urgency and tension that befits the subject matter. Also noteworthy is the thematic exploration of personal struggle, family dynamics, self-worth and the relentless pursuit of one’s dreams, all effectively woven into the fabric of the story.

Apart from its compelling characters and the captivating drama of the sports arena, American Anthem is also noteworthy for its exceptional choreography and cinematography. These remakable gymnastic sequences, shot with attention to stylized details, effectively magnify the athleticism, precision, and grace inherent in high-level gymnastics. This movie is a spectacle for sports lovers, and specifically for those with a penchant for gymnastics. It's also a study of how the human spirit, when pushed to its limits, can rise above adversity.

The movie is enriched by a fittingly energetic soundtrack curated by Alan Silvestri, a veteran in the field with iconic movies like Back to the Future and Forrest Gump to his credit. The music effectively accentuates the intensity of the gymnastics sequences and adds to the dramatic turns in the storyline.

American Anthem, despite its sports-centric plot, isn't strictly for the sports enthusiast. At its heart, it is a story of perseverance, self-belief, and the human will to excel. It delves into interpersonal relationships, explores the dynamics of love and rivalry, and offers a sincere look into the life of an athlete beyond the accolades and awards.

The magnetic performances by Mitchell Gaylord and Janet Jones provide a solid backbone to the movie, their gymnastics prowess blending with the rich storytelling to create a compelling cinematic experience. Tiny Well's impactful performance only adds to the overall emotional depth of the story.

American Anthem is a heartfelt tribute to the world of professional gymnastics, an exploration of the human spirit under pressure, and above all, an engaging film that knows how to entertain while putting the grit and determination of athletes under the spotlight. This movie makes for an intriguing watch for those who love intense sports dramas as well as those who seek a tale of human resilience backed by incredible gymnastics.