Athlete A 2020
Previous FilmsFrom the directors of AUDRIE & DAISY and AN INCONVENIENT SEQUEL, ATHLETE A is a feature-length documentary about the search for truth in the aftermath of one of the greatest scandals in the history of sports. In March 2016, a team of reporters from The Indianapolis Star began investigating claims of abuse in USA Gymnastics. Two years later, an Olympic doctor is behind bars, dozens of coaches have been banned, and hundreds of survivors are speaking out, including Maggie Nichols, dubbed “Athlete A” because she was the first to report Dr. Larry Nassar’s abuse to USAG. This film follows the IndyStar reporters as they reveal the extensive cover-up that allowed abuse to thrive within elite-level gymnastics, the attorney who is fighting the institutions that failed these athletes, and most importantly, the brave whistle-blowers who refuse to be silenced. A dramatic, devastating and ultimately inspiring film, ATHLETE A celebrates the power of truth as America searches for a new way forward in this beloved sport.
The Filmmakers
Bonni Cohen, Director
Bonni Cohen has produced and directed an array of award-winning films. Most recently, Bonni co-directed AN INCONVENIENT SEQUEL: TRUTH TO POWER which was selected to be the opening night film of the 2017 Sundance Film Festival and was released by Paramount in summer 2017. In 2016 Bonni co-directed the Peabody Award winning film AUDRIE & DAISY, which premiered in competition at the 2016 Sundance Film Festival and was picked up as a Netflix Original film.
Jon Shenk, Director
Jon Shenk has directed and photographed many award-winning films. Most recently, Jon co-directed and photographed AN INCONVENIENT SEQUEL: TRUTH TO POWER which was selected to be the opening night film of the 2017 Sundance Film Festival and was released by Paramount in summer 2017. In 2016 Jon co-directed and photographed the Peabody Award winning film AUDRIE & DAISY, which premiered in competition at the 2016 Sundance Film Festival and was picked up as a Netflix Original film. In 2011 Jon directed THE ISLAND PRESIDENT, winner of the 2011 TIFF’s People’s Choice Award and IDA’s Pare Lorentz Award. Jon was awarded the 2004 Independent Spirit Award for directing LOST BOYS OF SUDAN. Shenk was the DP for the 2008 Academy Award-winning SMILE PINKI, and he won an Emmy for BLAME SOMEBODY ELSE, 2007.