Mark Andrew Altschul’s All American is more than a sports documentary—it’s a portrait of grit, identity, and the fight to belong. At its core are three young women—Naomi, Jojo, and Arham—immigrant and first-generation wrestlers who challenge expectations both on and off the mat. Altschul, a former wrestler himself, uses their stories to spotlight the explosive rise of women’s wrestling, now one of the fastest-growing sports in U.S. high schools and colleges.
But this isn’t just about medals and matches. Through layered storytelling, Altschul explores how sport becomes a battleground for broader struggles—economic inequality, cultural identity, and personal transformation. Naomi and Jojo train in underfunded schools in the Bronx and Brooklyn, navigating adolescence while chasing athletic excellence. Arham’s journey is more complex. Her devotion to wrestling leads her to reject her Muslim faith and eventually leave her family. Her story unfolds in striking black-and-white watercolor animation—a bold stylistic shift that adds emotional weight but also nudges the film into more abstract territory.
What makes All American compelling is its intimacy. Altschul’s camera lingers—not just on the action, but on the quiet moments: the exhaustion after practice, the pep talks from coaches, the tension of family expectations. These girls aren’t just athletes; they’re symbols of change. They wrestle boys and girls alike, proving their strength in a sport still dominated by men. Their supporters—coaches, families, advocates—form a chorus of encouragement, helping them prepare for competition and life beyond school.
The film doesn’t preach. It observes. And in doing so, it reframes what it means to be “All American.” It’s not just about winning—it’s about showing up, pushing through, and redefining the rules. As women’s wrestling gains Olympic and NCAA recognition, All American captures a movement in motion.
Filmed over several years, including during the pandemic, the documentary reflects the resilience of its subjects and the sport itself. It’s a story of transformation—of bodies, minds, and futures. And while Arham’s fate remains uncertain, her presence lingers, a reminder that the path to empowerment isn’t always linear.
All American is a quiet triumph. It’s about wrestling, yes—but more than that, it’s about the courage to fight for who you are.
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