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Drama documentary

Changing the Game (2021): Cast & Ratings

Changing the Game (2021) movie poster

Changing the Game is a 2021 drama documentary directed by Mike Barnett, starring Mack Beggs, Terry Miller and Andraya Yearwood. It runs 1 hour 28 minutes. Critics gave it 100% on Rotten Tomatoes and 77 on Metacritic, and IMDb users rate it 6.4/10.

IMDb rating
6.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes
100%
Echo Score
76
Metascore
77
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Changing the Game (2021) movie poster
Released
Runtime
1h 28m (88 min)
Director
Mike Barnett
Genres
Drama , Sport , Documentary
Original language
English
Studio
Hulu
After the credits
No No extra scene
The story

What Is Changing the Game About?

The premise of Changing the Game without spoilers.

This film follows three transgender teenagers as they experience the challenges and triumphs of high school athletics. Mack Beggs, a Texas State Champion wrestler, confronts both praise and prejudice while pursuing his graduation amidst intense media attention. Through intimate and personal stories, the film explores themes of identity, courage, and resilience, offering a moving look at their journeys and prompting reflection on acceptance and understanding.

Changing the Game Themes & Keywords

· 50 tags
  • lgbt
  • coming of age
  • high school
  • lgbt plus
  • training
  • game
  • athletes
  • hulu
  • trans
  • transgender
  • female to male gender transition
  • transgender athlete
+38 more
  • female puberty
  • wrestling
  • athlete
  • highschool sports
  • american teenager
  • female wrestling
  • gender transition
  • women in sport
  • competition
  • male to female
  • puberty blocker
  • hormone treatment
  • transgender teenager
  • running track
  • transgender child
  • gender identity
  • gender ideology
  • women's sport
  • women's sports
  • sports for women
  • sex discrimination
  • highschool student
  • gender roles
  • state champion
  • testosterone level
  • testosterone
  • gender stereotype
  • gender dysphoria
  • gender identification
  • child development
  • child psychology
  • sport competition
  • womens rights
  • athletics
  • track athletics
  • athletic competition
  • female wrestler
  • competitive sport
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Cast & crew

Changing the Game Cast

Mack Beggs leads the cast, with Terry Miller and Andraya Yearwood. Directed by Mike Barnett; 6 actors are credited in all.

Also Starring in Changing the Game

· 2 more
From the director

More from Mike Barnett

One more film directed by Mike Barnett: The Mars Generation.

Full filmography
Ratings

Changing the Game Reviews & Ratings

Critics gave Changing the Game 100% on Rotten Tomatoes and 77 on Metacritic, and IMDb users rate it 6.4/10. Our Echo Score gives it 76/100, strongest in character & emotion (85) and weakest in story & flow (65).

76 /100

Changing the Game Echo Score Breakdown

Changing the Game delivers a well‑crafted documentary that balances emotional resonance with a clear social argument. Critics commend its visual polish and empathetic portrait of transgender teen athletes, while some note a conventional storytelling approach and occasional heavy‑handedness. User feedback is polarized, reflecting broader cultural debate. Overall the film succeeds in raising awareness and offers a compelling, if imperfect, viewing experience.

Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.

  • Art & Craft 80

    In terms of art and craft, the documentary is praised for its polished visual style and sharp editing. Critics highlight strong cinematography and thoughtful production design that enhance the narrative. Some note a conventional structure that limits innovation. The net impression is a professionally executed film with solid technical merits.

  • Character & Emotion 85

    When it comes to character and emotion, reviewers emphasize the nuanced, compassionate depiction of the three trans teen athletes. Performances and interview segments convey depth and authenticity, fostering audience empathy. No significant criticism is raised regarding character development, resulting in a strong impression of effective emotional storytelling.

  • Story & Flow 65

    Regarding story and flow, the film is seen as informative yet occasionally routine. Critics appreciate its clear exposition of the issues but point out a lack of deeper exploration and an unadventurous, conventional narrative pacing. The overall assessment reflects a solid but not groundbreaking storytelling approach.

  • Sensory Experience 78

    In the sensory experience domain, the documentary benefits from vivid visual evocations and a cohesive aesthetic that supports the subject matter. Sound design is functional, though not a focal point of commentary. Positive remarks about visual composition outweigh minor critiques, leading to a generally favorable sensory impression.

  • Rewatch Factor 70

    The rewatch factor receives mixed signals; critics find the film stimulating and valuable for viewers new to the debate, while some users express frustration or disengagement. Its educational merit and emotional impact encourage repeat viewings for interested audiences, though polarized opinions limit universal replay appeal.

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FAQ

Changing the Game FAQ: Cast, Runtime & Release Date

Runtime, release date, director, cast, ratings and post-credit scenes of Changing the Game, each answered in a sentence.

How long is Changing the Game?

Changing the Game runs 1 hour 28 minutes (88 minutes).

When was Changing the Game released?

Changing the Game was released on June 1, 2021.

Who directed Changing the Game?

Changing the Game was directed by Mike Barnett.

More films by Mike Barnett

Who is in the cast of Changing the Game?

Changing the Game stars Mack Beggs, Terry Miller and Andraya Yearwood, among 6 credited actors.

How is Changing the Game rated?

Changing the Game has 6.4/10 on IMDb, 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, 77 on Metacritic and 4.0/5 on Movie Insider.

Does Changing the Game have a post-credit scene?

No. Changing the Game has no extra scene during or after the credits.

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