Poms: Movie Summary & Review (Inspired by a True Story)

An American comedy film released in 2019 directed by Zara Hayes, stars Diane Keaton, Pam Grier, Jacki Weaver, Alisha Boe, Celia Weston, Alisha Boe (Jessica of 13 Reasons Why), Phyllis Somerville (in her final film role), Bruce McGill, Charlie Tahan, and Rhea Perlman.

The film talks about a group of women from a retirement facility who leaps of faith by starting a cheerleading squad. Produced by STX Entertainment, it was theatrically released in North America on May 10, 2019.

: Movie Summary

Martha is a woman who's dying of cancer decides to stop further treatment and moves to a retirement community called Sun Springs in Georgia. Upon arriving, she meets the community supervisor, Vicki, and gave her a tour of the place. She explains all the facilities including the community activities and one resident must be a member of one of the community's clubs.

As she moves into her new house, she then meets her next-door neighbor, Sheryl. Later that night, Martha couldn't sleep because of the loud noise coming from Sheryl's house. That forces her to call the community's security chief Carl to control the fuss.

As soon as Sheryl knew about the security chief's action, they sneak into Martha's house to evade Carl and convinced Martha to allow them to hide there. From then on, Sheryl gets to know more about Martha and becomes interested to befriend her. She invites her to various activities but Martha couldn't find a reason to join clubs.

Preparing for her funeral activity, she watches a television program about fireworks being used for funerals. She makes plans to use fireworks for her own funeral. The next day, she finally decides to be friends with Sheryl. Sheryl learns that Martha used to be a cheerleader before.

Martha then explains that she quit cheerleading because she had to take care of her ailing mother. Sheryl suggested that she should try to be a cheerleader again. Contemplating, Martha goes to see Sheryl at a high school where she works as a substitute teacher and convinces her to help her start a cheerleading club in Sun Springs.

They convinced Vicki to allow them to start a cheerleading club and then hold tryouts. Six women join namely: Ruby, Alice, Evelyn, Helen, Olive, and Phyllis. Ben, Sheryl's teenage grandson was hired to be their DJ.

As the group starts practicing, it becomes difficult for them because of their age and physical conditions. Vicki told them to find a new place to practice, Sheryl reacts by getting them a spot at a pep rally at the high school.

While waiting in the locker room, the group was teased by a group of younger cheerleaders about their outfits and their age. During the performance, Helen hurts her ankle and was sent to the hospital. On practice, Ben saw a video of them taken during the performance that went viral.

On the other hand, Tom, Helen's controlling son was furious telling the group to file a lawsuit against them while Vicki and other members of the community unanimously decided to disband the club.

The next day, Martha invites Sheryl for a drink. When Sheryl watches the video, she recognizes Chloe's voice. They went to Chloe's house and blamed her for what happened. Chloe apologized explaining she didn't know her friends would post it. They forgive Chloe and ask her to be their choreographer as they resemble the cheerleading squad.

Chloe agrees to become their choreographer.

Back on practice, Martha inspires her teammates that they have something within that would prove everybody wrong and show that they can be a team if they work together.

Chloe's presence and coaching really made a big difference to the group. They have improved much as they prepare for the upcoming cheerleading competition.

Meanwhile, Martha's cancer, which she has kept secret from the group, has progressed.

While practicing, she felt a little bit nauseous and went to the cr. After leaving a group party, she collapses while walking home. She wakes up in a hospital with Sheryl beside her. She tells her that she's not going to make it and she's afraid of dying. Sheryl convinces her that the group needs her so she should pursue what her heart desires ever since.

The next day is the most awaited cheerleading competition day. Martha and the group set Tom up by breaking the car's windshield so they could rescue Helen and bring her to the competition. Vicki and the security chief tried to stop the group but they failed.

The group arrived at the venue but was informed about being disqualified. It was because they're too old to join the competition. However, chief Carl came to the rescue and made up a law stating discrimination against elder people.

The group performs successfully and wins the audience by dancing with them together with the other teams.

The next scene shows a firework display indicating that Martha has died and had her funeral. One year later, the group has recruited new members. In the locker room, they are preparing for another cheerleading competition. They formed a circle and offered their performance in memory of Martha.

If you guys want a movie to watch, something chill and just light that would make you laugh at the same time, this is it.

Here's the trailer:

This movie reminds us that it is never too late to do the things you want to do. Take it from Martha where she enjoyed the remaining time she had. Sometimes, it takes courage and motivation from other people to affirm that you are valid and that you are still capable of what you do.

Also, true friends will never leave you behind. That's why do something crazy together. Enjoy the time you have or else you are gonna regret it.

Thanks for reading!

Keep safe everyone ❤