'Athlete A': Release date, plot, trailer and all you need to know about Netflix's documentary on USA Gymnastics's toxic culture
Among various TV shows and VoD releases during this lockdown, what garnered special attention were sports documentaries across multiple networks and streaming services. The final week of June sees Netflix roll out a documentary on what it calls "one of the greatest scandals" in sports history. 'Athlete A', a full-length feature, follows the attempts made by Indianapolis reporters who unmasked major cover-up in US gymnastics. The film narrates the story of a two-year investigation into sexual abuse claims that led to the imprisonment of Olympics doctor Larry Nassar and the ban of many associated coaches from the sport. Here's what we know about the docu-film so far.
Release date
'Athlete A' premieres on June 24 on Netflix.
Plot
Netflix's official logline for the film reads: "This documentary focuses on the gymnasts who survived USA Gymnasts doctor Larry Nassar's abuse and reporters who exposed USAG's toxic culture." The description reads: "'Athlete A' follows the IndyStar reporters as they reveal the extensive cover-up and culture of cruelty that was allowed to thrive within elite gymnastics, the attorney fighting the institutions, and most importantly, the brave whistle-blowers who refuse to be silenced." The title of the film is based on Maggie Nichols referred to as 'Athlete A'. She was the first gymnast to come forward to tell her story.
The backstory
In 2015, Nichols was the first athlete who brought the sexual abuse complaint against Nassar to light. She went on to sue USA Gymnastics and her lawsuit, according to USA Today, is still pending after the USAG denied the claims. The case was reported by Marisa Kwiatkowski, who is now an investigative reporter for USA Today. Mark Alesia and Tim Evans along with Steve Berta and Robert Scheer were the other journalists involved in the investigation. The reporting led to Nassar's arrest and the resignation of president and CEO of USAG, Steve Penny.
Director
California filmmakers Bonni Cohen and Jon Shenk helmed the project.
Trailer
There is no trailer for 'Athlete A' yet, but with the release date nearing, a clip might drop in soon. Watch this space for more updates on the trailer.
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