How a rejected script about cheerleading became a defining cult classic of the 2000s

Entertainment · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Before it became a box office hit and a cultural touchstone, the teen comedy Bring It On was rejected 28 times. Writer Jessica Bendinger envisioned a high-stakes clash between two squads, blending her love for hip-hop with the intense, competitive world of national cheerleading championships.

Released on August 25, 2000, Bring It On defied expectations to secure the number one spot at the North American box office for two consecutive weeks. Directed by Peyton Reed in his theatrical debut, the film follows Torrance Shipman, a new captain at Rancho Carne High School, who discovers her team’s success is built on routines stolen from the East Compton Clovers. This central conflict allowed the film to explore themes of cultural appropriation and economic inequality, a depth that critics like A. O. Scott praised for its satirical edge.

The production was marked by rigorous preparation. To avoid relying on stunt doubles, director Peyton Reed required the cast to undergo a four-week cheerleading camp. The authenticity of the performances was bolstered by the casting of Gabrielle Union as Isis, the Clovers' captain, whose charisma Reed noted as essential to the film's success. While the script was initially pitched as 'Clueless meets Strictly Ballroom,' the final product evolved into a nuanced look at high school dynamics, even featuring a gay cheerleader character who was comfortable in his sexuality, a detail noted by the Los Angeles Times.

Despite its eventual success, the project faced significant hurdles. Kirsten Dunst initially turned down the lead role, and the script was passed over by studios nearly thirty times before Beacon Pictures picked it up. The film’s legacy has since expanded into a franchise, spawning six direct-to-video sequels. However, the original remains a singular entry, celebrated for its high energy and its ability to subversively suggest that integrity and sportsmanship are ultimately more valuable than winning a trophy.

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