Athlete A

Athlete A is a 2021 American sports documentary film directed by Bonni Cohen and Jon Shenk, which delves into the scandal surrounding USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar's abuse of numerous women and girls. The film primarily focuses on the investigative journalism of the Indianapolis Star reporters, which led to the expose of Nassar's heinous crimes. Through personal interviews with gymnasts who experienced Nassar's abuse, Athlete A sheds light on the trauma and emotional turmoil victims faced at the hands of those meant to protect and care for them. The film begins in the mid-1990s, showcasing the rise of USA Gymnastics and the emergence of Larry Nassar as a respected doctor specializing in sports medicine. Trained in osteopathic family medicine, Nassar gained a reputation for being particularly knowledgeable in sports medicine, and subsequently, earned a position as an osteopathic physician at the gymnastics training facility, the Karolyi Ranch, in Texas. As the documentary progresses, it becomes increasingly evident that Nassar exploited the trust placed in him, not only by the gymnasts but also by their parents, coaches, and the USA Gymnastics organization. Through a series of interviews, Athlete A reveals the experiences of those who suffered under Nassar's abuse. These women, ranging from young girls to experienced gymnasts, share their harrowing encounters with Nassar, exposing the widespread abuse and the failure of those in positions of power to intervene. One of the primary subjects of the documentary is Rachael Denhollander, a prominent voice among Nassar's victims and a key figure in the exposure of his abuse. Denhollander, who was abused by Nassar during her competitive gymnastics days, exemplifies the resilience and courage of those who bravely came forward to share their stories. Another key figure in the documentary is the Indianapolis Star's investigative reporter, Marisa Kwiatkowski. Kwiatkowski and her team undertook a painstaking investigation, examining thousands of documents and conducting interviews with gymnasts, coaches, and other officials within the USA Gymnastics organization. Their reporting ultimately led to the exposure of Nassar's abuse, triggering a nationwide response. The film highlights the numerous failures within the USA Gymnastics organization. Despite being informed of concerns and allegations about Nassar's behavior on multiple occasions, officials failed to adequately respond to or address these issues. In the end, this inaction created a culture of complicity, where victims felt silenced and powerless to speak out. Athlete A sheds light on the complexities and intricacies surrounding Nassar's abuse, emphasizing the role of psychological manipulation in his crimes. Nassar used his privileged position and the trust placed in him to emotionally manipulate and manipulate his victims, leaving them with long-lasting trauma and emotional scars. The documentary delves into the therapeutic processes that many victims have undergone, including Denhollander, to cope with the trauma they experienced. Through the lens of the Nassar scandal, Athlete A raises essential questions about the accountability of institutions and the responsibility of those in positions of power. The film suggests that while institutions can have immense power and influence, they are also capable of perpetuating abuse, complicity, and silence. Ultimately, Athlete A stands as a testament to the resiliency of survivors, serving as a reminder of the importance of listening to and believing victims, especially in situations where power dynamics can often favor those who abuse. As the documentary concludes, it leaves viewers with a sense of both outrage and determination. It underscores the imperative for societal, institutional, and community responsibility in addressing and preventing abuse. Athlete A serves as a poignant reminder of the critical need for reform within organizations and institutions that can enable abuse to occur and be hidden for far too long. The film serves as a powerful tribute to the courage of Rachael Denhollander and the victims, inspiring viewers to stand alongside them in their fight against abuse.