Documentary

Changing the Game (2019): Cast & Ratings

Name: Changing the Game
Genre: Documentary
Released: 2019-04-26
Duration: 1 h 28 min
Cast: Andraya Yearwood, Mack Beggs, Ngozi Nnaji, Sarah Rose Huckman

Changing the Game is a 2019 documentary directed by Michael Barnett, starring Andraya Yearwood, Mack Beggs and Ngozi Nnaji. It runs 1 hour 28 minutes. Its Echo Score is 85/100.

Loading streaming availability…

Watch the trailer

Released: April 26, 2019
Runtime: 1h 28m (88 min)
Director: Michael Barnett
Genre: Documentary
Original language: English
Studio: SuperFilms!
After the credits: No No extra scene

The story

What Is Changing the Game About?

The premise of Changing the Game without spoilers.

This documentary follows transgender high school athletes as they compete at a national level, showcasing their dedication and skill. The film explores the challenges they face, examining the complex issues of fairness, inclusion, and discrimination within sports and society. Through their stories, it prompts a deeper understanding of identity, acceptance, and the pursuit of athletic dreams.

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

Loading streaming availability…

Cast & crew

Changing the Game Cast

Andraya Yearwood leads the cast, with Mack Beggs and Ngozi Nnaji. Directed by Michael Barnett; 4 actors are credited in all.

Director Michael Barnett

Andraya Yearwood as themselves
Mack Beggs as themselves
Ngozi Nnaji as themselves
Sarah Rose Huckman as themselves

From the director

More from Michael Barnett

More films directed by Michael Barnett: Becoming Bulletproof and Superheroes.

Full filmography

Ratings

Changing the Game Reviews & Ratings

Our Echo Score gives it 85/100, strongest in art & craft (92) and weakest in rewatch factor (70).

85 /100

Changing the Game Echo Score Breakdown

Changing the Game offers a compelling documentary portrait of transgender teen athletes, pairing timely relevance with heartfelt storytelling. Critics highlight its powerful direction and empathetic focus, while viewers note the film’s educational value despite occasional heavy‑handed advocacy. The narrative balances personal anecdotes with broader social commentary, creating an emotionally resonant experience. Though some feel the perspective is overtly partisan, the film’s sincerity and urgency sustain its impact, making it a noteworthy contribution to both sports and LGBTQ cinema.

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

Art & Craft 92

In terms of direction and cinematography, the documentary presents a clear, purposeful visual language that emphasizes authenticity. The editing weaves together interviews and competition footage with measured pacing, while production design keeps the focus on the athletes’ environments. These craft elements collectively reinforce the film’s sincere tone.
Character & Emotion 86

When it comes to character depth, the film foregrounds the personal stories of three trans‑teen athletes, allowing their voices to drive the narrative. Performances by the subjects feel natural and emotionally resonant, and the chemistry among the interviewees underscores shared challenges. Though the portrayal sometimes leans toward advocacy, the overall emotional honesty strengthens audience connection.
Story & Flow 78

The documentary’s story structure follows the athletes’ journeys from training through competition, offering a coherent chronological arc. Pacing remains steady, though some viewers note a tendency toward didactic moments that foreground a particular viewpoint. Originality stems from its focus on trans athletes in high school sports, lending the film a distinctive relevance within the broader sports documentary genre.
Sensory Experience 80

In terms of sensory experience, the film utilizes a modest soundtrack that underscores emotional beats without overwhelming the dialogue. Sound design captures the ambient noise of gymnasiums and the subtle tension of competitions, while visual styling favors natural lighting and unobtrusive camera work. These choices maintain focus on the subjects and support the documentary’s intimate atmosphere.
Rewatch Factor 70

The documentary’s rewatch factor rests on its educational relevance and emotional sincerity; viewers may return for deeper insight into the athletes’ experiences and the broader social context. While the overt advocacy may deter some on subsequent viewings, the compelling personal narratives and timely subject matter offer lasting appeal for audiences interested in sports, social justice, or documentary filmmaking.