Entertainment Spotlight: Greg Whiteley, Cheer
Greg Whiteley is an American film director, producer, and writer, known for New York Doll, Resolved, Mitt, and Most Likely to Succeed. He is also the creator and director of the Netflix documentary series Last Chance U. His latest documentary series, Cheer, follows the competitive cheer team at Navarro College, and premieres January 8 on Netflix. Greg took the time to answer some of our questions about himself and the making of Cheer. Check it out:
What inspired you to make a documentary about the Navarro College cheerleaders?
Our second year shooting Last Chance U Chelsea Yarnell and I began spending time with the cheer squad in Scooba, MS. We were struck by how tough the cheerleaders and their practices were. The stunts were incredible; nothing like the routines we saw on the sidelines of the football game. They explained, “Oh, these are the stunts we’re saving for Daytona.” “What’s Daytona?” After they explained, I thought it sounded like college cheer might be a potential series.
What advice would you give to your ten year old self?
Stop looking for that red Match Box car. You’ll never, ever find it.
Do you have any fun facts about the making of Cheer that viewers would be surprised to know?
Certain members of the film crew would hang out nights in the jacuzzi at the Hampton Inn in Corsicana, Texas. I was never invited. My feelings remain hurt to this day.
What do you hope that viewers take away from Cheer?
There’s a rare bond that develops among Cheer teams. I believe it’s a bond forged by the willingness to put your physical and emotional well-being in the hands of another as you attempt life-threatening stunt after life-threatening stunt. Also, there’s a muscle that’s only built through hundreds and hundreds of hours of falling, getting back up, and trying again. Cheerleaders, as a result, are the toughest athletes I’ve ever filmed.
If everything that you did was narrated, whose voice would you want narrating your life?
Are you kidding? Sam Elliott. Who else?
Did you learn anything about yourself over the course of filming?
I’m likely too old to learn how to do a standing back tuck. This is still difficult for me to come to grips with.
Do you have a personal motto or mantra?
Cold eye, warm heart.
Thanks for taking the time, Greg! Cheer premieres on Netflix on January 8th.
Photo: Dewey Keithly
