Stick It

| 2006

Directed by: Jessica Bendinger

Main Plot

Stick It follows the story of Haley Graham, a rebellious teenager with a troubled past in the world of gymnastics. After a run-in with the law, she is forced to return to the sport she once excelled at but had abandoned due to its strict and demanding nature. Haley joins a competitive gymnastics team, where she must navigate the challenges of training, personal relationships, and her own defiance against the rigid expectations of the sport. As she grapples with her feelings about gymnastics and her own identity, Haley begins to inspire her teammates to embrace their individuality and challenge the conventional norms of the gymnastics world. The film explores themes of self-acceptance, resilience, and the importance of following one’s own path, all set against the backdrop of high-stakes gymnastics competitions.

Characters

  • Missy Peregrym plays Haley Graham, a rebellious former gymnast who returns to the sport, challenging conventions and inspiring her teammates to embrace individuality and fairness in competition.
  • Jeff Bridges plays Burt Vickerman, a former gymnast turned coach who helps rebellious gymnasts find discipline and passion for the sport.
  • Vanessa Lengies plays Joanne Charis, a competitive gymnast and rival to the protagonist, contributing to the tension and eventual camaraderie within the gymnastics team.

Ending Explained

In the ending of Stick It, the main character, Haley, confronts her past and her relationship with gymnastics. After a tumultuous journey filled with rebellion and self-discovery, she participates in a crucial competition that determines her future in the sport. The climax occurs during the national championships, where Haley showcases her talent and determination, ultimately deciding to perform a routine that defies traditional expectations. As she executes her final routine, Haley embraces her individuality and the importance of personal expression over strict adherence to rules. This pivotal moment symbolizes her growth and acceptance of herself, both as an athlete and as a person. The judges, initially skeptical, recognize her skill and passion, leading to a surprising outcome that challenges the conventional scoring system. The resolution of the main conflict comes when Haley chooses to redefine her relationship with gymnastics, opting for authenticity rather than perfection. The film concludes with her standing up for her beliefs and inspiring her teammates to embrace their own identities. This ending reinforces the overarching themes of self-acceptance, empowerment, and the importance of staying true to oneself, ultimately leaving a lasting impact on both Haley and the sport itself.

Jessica Bendinger Comedy Drama Sport Missy Peregrym Jeff Bridges Vanessa Lengies