The Bronze is a 2015 American sports comedy-drama film directed by Bryan Buckley and written by Melissa Rauch and Winston Rauch. The film features a cast that includes Melissa Rauch, Gary Cole, Thomas Middleditch, Sebastian Stan, Cecily Strong, Haley Lu Richardson, and Dale Raoul. It had its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival on January 22, 2015, and was released theatrically on March 18, 2016.
The plot centers around Hope Ann Greggory (Melissa Rauch), a foul-mouthed former Olympic bronze medalist who has been living off her past celebrity status in her hometown of Amherst, Ohio. After the suicide of her former coach, Hope learns that she will inherit $500,000 if she can train her coach's best student, Maggie Townsend (Haley Lu Richardson), to compete in the Olympics. This unexpected opportunity forces Hope back into the world of gymnastics and into conflict with her old rival Lance Tucker (Sebastian Stan), who is now coaching Maggie.
As Hope reluctantly takes on the role of coach, she encounters various challenges, including her own jaded personality and the enthusiastic spirit of Maggie. The film explores themes of ambition, redemption, and the complexities of personal growth. Throughout the story, Hope's interactions with her father (Gary Cole) and love interest Ben (Thomas Middleditch) add depth to her character as she navigates the pressures of coaching and her own insecurities.
The Bronze received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised Melissa Rauch's performance and the film's production design, others criticized it for its lack of humor and one-dimensional characters. The film's portrayal of Hope as a deeply flawed individual struggling with her past resonated with some viewers, while others found it difficult to connect with her journey.
Despite its mixed reception, The Bronze has garnered attention for its unique take on sports comedies and its exploration of themes like failure and personal growth. The film highlights how past achievements can shape one's identity and the struggle to move beyond them.