Elliot Page and D.W. Waterson are bringing a new queer cheerleader story to the big screen with the production of ‘Backspot’. The movie, produced by Page, has recently started filming in Canada. The film is based on a story by D.W. Waterson, who is also making their directorial debut on the movie. Page Boy Productions is producing along with Prospero Pictures.
The movie stars Devery Jacobs (Reservation Dogs) as Riley and newcomer Kudakwashe Rutendo as Amanda, two young cheerleaders. The logline states that both are impressive members of their mid-level cheerleading squad until a professional coach gives them a chance to level up with The Thunderhawks. There, they must learn to negotiate their space, find their voices, and come to an understanding with the generation of women who came before them. The cast also includes Thomas Anthony Olajide, Olunike Adeliyi, Wendy Crewson, and Shannyn Sossamon.
Waterson said, “I’m so proud and excited to finally be going to camera after five long years. We’ve assembled an absolutely stacked cast, and an incredible crew, and we are thrilled to be creating something that’s truly kickass, raw, and that has a magic energy behind it.”
‘Backspot’ continues Page’s work as an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, which started when he came out as transgender in December 2020. Page is also set to return as Viktor Hargreeves in the fourth and final season of Netflix’s The Umbrella Academy, which will consist of six episodes. Additionally, he will be voicing characters in two upcoming animated projects: Dusky in the upcoming Naya Legend of the Golden Dolphin, and Victoria Walker in the animated series ARK.
This movie follows in the footsteps of other popular queer cheerleader stories, such as But I’m a Cheerleader and Brittany and Santana from Glee. The movie celebrates both the athleticism of competitive cheer and the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community. Waterson said, “I am beyond looking forward to highlighting both of these communities in Backspot.” The film promises to be kickass, raw, and full of magic energy.
