Watch Personal Best

Personal Best is a 1982 sports drama film that follows the journey of a group of women athletes competing in the Olympics. The movie is directed by Robert Towne and stars Mariel Hemingway, Scott Glenn, and Patrice Donnelly. The story revolves around the life of Chris Cahill, a young track and field athlete who is training to compete in the Olympics. Chris is determined to win the gold medal and to do so, she joins a training camp run by the tough but supportive coach, Terry Tingloff.

At the training camp, Chris meets Tory Skinner, a charismatic and confident athlete who quickly becomes Chris's closest friend and rival. As they train and compete together, Chris and Tory develop a strong friendship and begin to push each other to reach their personal best.

Throughout the movie, we see the women facing various challenges both on and off the track. They have to fight for funding, deal with injuries, and navigate complex relationships with their coaches, family, and teammates.

One of the most compelling aspects of the film is the exploration of Chris and Tory's relationship. The two women share a deep bond that borders on a romantic attraction. While the movie never explicitly confirms whether they are romantically involved, it hints at the possibility throughout, making for a complex and layered portrayal of friendship and intimacy.

One of the standout elements of the movie is the stunning cinematography. The director does an excellent job of capturing the beauty and athleticism of the sport. Scenes of the women running and jumping are shot in slow-motion, allowing the viewer to appreciate the grace and power of their movements.

Personal Best also features a fantastic soundtrack, with music from artists like Pete Townshend, Paul McCartney, and Linda Ronstadt. The songs complement the movie's themes of ambition, self-discovery, and friendship, adding an emotional depth to the film.

Overall, Personal Best is an insightful and engaging look at the world of women's track and field. It explores the challenges and rewards of pursuing athletic excellence, while also delving into the complexities of female friendship and sexuality. With its impressive cast, compelling story, and stunning visuals, the movie is a must-watch for fans of sports dramas.