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Flipping Expectations: Malala Backs New Gymnastics Documentary
Flipping Expectations: Malala Backs New Gymnastics Documentary

Flipping Expectations: Malala Backs New Gymnastics Documentary

movies-entertainment

By Zara Lin

- May 24, 2026

Getting a boost from none other than illustrious Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Malala Yousafzai, documentary "The Gymnasts of Fisherman Colony" is set to steal the show at the Tribeca Festival. Starring three gutsy Pakistani girls, the film illustrates how gymnastics is redefining their place in society.

Under the skilled direction of Habiba Nosheen, this heartfelt coming-of-age tale explores the girls' inspiring journey. From hanging out at society's periphery, these youngsters morph into trailblazers, redefining their futures one flip, twirl, and leap at a time. As they navigate the deep-seated cultural norms in Pakistan, their acrobatic ambitions begin to stir up the status quo, crafting a poignant narrative worth sitting up and taking notice of!

Malala, with her vivacious statement, encapsulated her support for the film: “I could not be more proud to support this beautiful film and the incredible young athletes at the heart of it…‘The Gymnasts of Fisherman Colony’ perfectly illustrates the power of sports to change how girls see themselves and how the world sees young women.”

Flipping Expectations: Malala Backs New Gymnastics Documentary

Didn't expect Emmy-award winner Mariska Hargitay and the acclaimed filmmaker, Trish Adlesic, to sit this one out, did you? Alongside the experienced producer Amar Lohana, this power-packed lineup takes the documentary game a notch higher. "Malala's addition as the executive producer perfectly complements the film's essence.” muses Hargitay, expressing her admiration for the courage and resilience the film encapsulates.

Echoing these sentiments, director Nosheen shares her delight, “Malala's support amplifies our mission of celebrating the strength, joy, and aspirations of these extraordinary Pakistani teenagers…Mariska’s unwavering faith in the film has been instrumental as we gear up to tell this story to audiences across the world.”

Can't wait to watch it? Produced by Akelo Media, "The Gymnasts of Fisherman Colony" is armed with support from Canada Media Fund and Telefilm Canada, in collaboration with CBC, Chicken and Egg Films, and Mighty Entertainment. Buckle up, folks! This film is bound to leave you astonished, inspired and rooting for these determined young athletes. Check out the trailer below.

OUR RATING

8 / 10

Nobel Laureate Malala Yousafzai takes on the executive producer mantle for a groundbreaking documentary showcasing Pakistani girl gymnasts.