The Secret Lives of Cheerleaders (2019) - full transcript

Naturally-gifted cheerleader Ava is an instant hit at her new school, but her quick rise in popularity is threatened by the rivalry of cheer captain and Homecoming Queen Katrina, who puts ...

♪♪ [ominous]

Wha-- What's happening?

Please, please,
I want to go home.

Take off your clothes.

What?

Now!

Drink.

H-How much?

Until she says stop.

[Gags, coughs]

She didn't say stop.



I-I can't.

Either keep drinking

or don't come to practice
on Monday.

Quiet!

Stand where you are!

- Quick! Run!
- What's going on?

♪♪

♪ Living in
the eye of the storm ♪

♪ Oh ♪

♪ Living in
the eye of the storm ♪

♪ Living in the big league ♪

♪ Living in
the eye of the storm ♪

♪ Oh, yeah ♪

♪ I'm a little bit crazy ♪



♪ And a little too loud ♪

♪ From the moment
that I wake up ♪

♪ Turn the whole world
upside-down ♪

♪ No one's gonna break me ♪

♪ Gonna take the town ♪

I heard it's one of
the highest-ranking schools

in the state.

New town, new school.

It's a fresh start.

This will be good for you.

It would be better
if they had a dance team.

Have you given any more thought
trying out for cheer?

It's a whole different
world, Mom.

Well, it's not that different.

I'm sure the same skills
will translate.

Maybe.

Well, you know, some of
my best memories of high school

were from the squad.

Plus, it'll give you a chance
to meet new friends.

And one of those
cheer scholarships

wouldn't hurt either.

You don't have to remind me.

[Class bell ringing]

Well, that's my cue.

Honey, whatever you decide,
you're gonna do great, okay?

Sure.

Give your mom a hug.

- I love you.
- Love you too.

Okay, have a great day.

♪♪

♪ Welcome to my world,
where it's hip, yeah ♪

♪ Being crazy, being a little
sick and twisted ♪

♪ So grab a cup, fill it up ♪

♪ And we'll dance
this night away ♪

♪ Yeah, you catch my eye
when you walk that way ♪

♪ Every look, every touch,
every word you say ♪

♪ Got me guessing,
got me thinking ♪

♪ Things are never gonna
be the same ♪

♪ You lift me up ♪

♪ You bring me down ♪

♪ You make my mind
all twisted ♪

♪ Turn the whole world
upside-down ♪

I am so sorry!

That was totally my bad.

Nice meeting you too.

[Class bell ringing]

All right, welcome, class.

I am Mr. Bailey.

This is
Introduction to Chemistry.

Now don't get too comfortable
where you are.

I'm about to assign you all
lab partners for the semester.

Ms. Simon, you're late.

- BOY: [coughs] Loser.
- [Laughter]

All right, enough now.
When I call your name,

take a seat at the table
I point to.

If I'm paired with her,
I'm dropping the class.

Let your heart
not be troubled.

Um...

Excuse me, Mr. Bailey.

I was hoping you could
pair up Shay and I.

We work really well together,

and I think I focus better

with someone
I'm more comfortable with.

Katrina Smith
and Shay Rodriguez,

eleven and twelve.

Ava Scott and Allyson Simon,
three and four.

Poor new girl.

Zach Cole, Robert Russell,
uh, one and two.

Jeffrey Schenk
and Barry Barnholtz,

eight and nine.

Hey, I'm really sorry
about before.

I'm Ava.

Allyson.

Mind if I sit here?

Free country.

So you work at the mall?

I saw your name tag.

Friends, Romans, countrymen,
lend me your ear!

I just want to remind
anyone interested

that tryouts to join
the nationally ranked,

award-winning Lionesses

will begin today after school
on the field.

All are welcome.

[Cheers and applause]

Who is this girl?

Hey.

Set, hike!

[Whistles blowing]

[whistles blowing]

It's only temporary.

It's just like dance.

So you think you want
to be a Lioness.

Do you have what it takes

to be part of
the greatest organization

Roosevelt High has ever seen?

We'll see about that.

You know, being a Lioness

is a lot more
than just wearing the uniform.

On my squad,
I expect discipline.

I expect determination.

I expect perfection.

Now, speaking of perfection,

I want to introduce you
to the true leader of this team,

the talent that has brought us

to two back-to-back
state championships

and will no doubt
lead us to a third,

introducing
your amazing captain,

Katrina Smith.

[Clapping]

Thank you so much,
Miss Sinclair.

I couldn't triumph without
my wonderful team by my side,

so thank you all so much

for showing up
to this year's tryouts.

I'm excited to see what you
Lioness cubs have to offer.

This is my third time
trying out.

First time for me.

You're the new girl.

- I'm Julie.
- Ava.

So you've never been
on a squad before?

Massachusetts state dance team
champions three years in a row.

Wow.

But Roosevelt doesn't have
a dance team, so here I am.

I'm a convert too.
Gymnastics.

I wish I could do that.

After my last growth spurt,

they said I should probably
try something else.

At least you can hit all those
back tucks and handsprings.

I've been working with a trainer
all summer.

You don't think
that's a little much?

It's smart.

My sister was a Lioness
for four years.

Roosevelt High has the record
for the most CSCA awards.

What's CSCA?

California State
Cheerleading Association.

Every year they give an award

to the best cheerleader
in the whole state.

- Comes with a trophy.
- And a scholarship.

Committee members come
to games and rallies,

and they decide in the spring.

I could really use that.

Forget about it.

Ms. Sinclair has been
grooming Katrina for it

since she was a freshman.

Okay, first up, Julie.

Julie, welcome back.

Who knows?
Maybe this is finally your year.

When you're ready.

Come on, come on!
Say, "Let's go, Lions!"

Let's go, Lions!

Nice job.

Thanks.

You look like you've lost
a little weight since last year.

Um, yeah,
I really want this.

Good for you.

Thank you.

Okay, next up, Ava.

You're in my chem class.

Yeah. I'm Ava Scott.

This is freeform, so...

let's see what you've got,
Ava Scott.

♪♪

♪ Ooh, yeah ♪

♪♪

♪ Oh, yeah ♪

♪ Got nothin' on me ♪

♪ So I hear you wanna
hit the groove ♪

♪ Make it look easy ♪

♪ I'm gonna show you
how to get it done ♪

♪ You wanna play with me ♪

♪ Gonna send me to the top ♪

♪ No one lookin' like me ♪

♪ So turn it up, burn it up,
bring it on ♪

♪ Gonna show you
Gonna work it, work it ♪

♪ With every move,
I'm gonna serve it, serve it ♪

♪ Gonna work
Gonna work it, work it ♪

♪ I'm gonna show you
how the game is won ♪

♪ Gonna show you
how to work it, work it ♪

♪ With every move,
I'm gonna serve it, serve it ♪

♪ Lots of work
Gonna earn it, earn it ♪

♪ I'm gonna show you
how the game is won ♪

- Whoo! Whoo!
- Yeah!

Have you cheered before?

Just dance, but...

I'm sure a lot of the skills
will translate.

Well, there's only
one way to find out.

We'll post the roster
online tomorrow.

Thank you.

♪♪ [Upbeat]

Sorry it's so rushed.

I actually have to go
back to the office

for a few hours
after we finish.

That's okay.
It's actually really good.

Oh, you're complimenting
my cooking?

Things must have gone
very well today.

I went to cheer tryouts.

And?

I had more fun
than I thought I would.

Don't do that.

Do what?

The boastful
"I told you so" look.

That's not what I'm doing.

Okay, maybe a little,
but I did tell you.

The squad is really good.

People seem
to respect them here.

It's not just a joke.

Well, as it should be.

And you were right.

There is a scholarship.

But you have to be the best
in the whole state.

Let's just see if I can actually
make the team first.

You're gonna make the team.

What makes you say that?

Because you're beautiful,
and you're talented,

and they'd be so lucky
to have you.

You're my mom.
You have to say that.

Okay, all right.

I will just get ready
for another "I told you so."

[Giggles]

I'm just so happy to see you're
getting back to your old self.

Ava!

Great job yesterday.

You got some mad skills.

Thanks.

Maybe I'll see you around.

Oh, you're so sweaty.

[Tires screech]

Whew!

I am so sorry.
Are you okay?

Yeah. It was totally my fault.
I wasn't looking.

I'm pretty sure if I'd hit you,
I'd get full blame.

I guess it's good
you didn't hit me then.

Well, I'm Patrick.

Ava.

I saw you at tryouts yesterday.

You got some good moves.

Thanks.

You're on the team,
I presume?

What gave it away?

So did you make it?

We find out tonight.

Well, I hope you do.

Then maybe our paths
will cross more.

And by "cross,"
I mean I'll see you on the field

and not almost
hit you with my car.

That would be cool.

Paths crossing
and not getting hit by your car.

- [Giggles]
- You need a ride home?

No, that's okay. Thanks.

My mom's supposed
to pick me up soon.

Another time then.

- [Car door closes]
- [engine starts]

[tapping key]

Mom, refreshing it
won't make it post any sooner.

Back in my day, we had to wait
until the list was posted

outside the coach's office.

[Doorbell rings]

- Hi.
- Hi!

You must be Mrs. Scott.

I am.

Is Ava in?

Katrina, hey!

Hope I'm not intruding.

No, no, not at all.

Mom, this is Katrina.
She's the cheer captain.

- Hi. Nice to meet you.
- Hi.

I was a cheer captain
in my day too.

I should have guessed
Ava's talent ran in the family.

So Ms. Sinclair is about
to post the roster online,

but I wanted to tell you
in person.

Welcome to the Lionesses!

- Honey, congratulations!
- Thanks.

I see something special
in you, Ava,

and I really wanted
to welcome you personally.

Thank you.

Well, I will let you two
celebrate.

Congrats again,
and wear your uniform on Monday.

- Bye!
- Bye.

Ooh, honey,
I'm so proud of you.

You've come along way since--

Oh, my gosh,
these colors.

These are gonna look
so good on you.

And that Katrina, she seems
like such a sweetheart.

She does, doesn't she?

I told you this is gonna be
a great way for you

to make new friends.

Yeah, it is.
[Giggles]

She's really good.

Are you worried?

Let's see if she can make it
through the end of the season.

- [Engine starts]
- We're far from done yet.

I'm ready.

♪ I'm taking one step ♪

♪ Closer to the ledge ♪

♪ Head trip ♪

♪ Dancing on the razor's edge♪

♪ Go big in loving you ♪

♪ That way we'll never forget
Never forget ♪

♪ Closing ♪

♪ Now I got you in my sights ♪

Ava! Ava, Ava!

Hey!

Oh, I was so glad when
I saw your name on the list!

Ask my mom. I almost went
into anaphylactic shock!

I can't believe
I actually made it this year!

Look at us.

It does feel really good.

You look so pretty.

You too.

It's a little tight on me,

but Katrina said it'll be
motivation to work out harder.

Of course she did.

Look, it's Tiffany and Haley!

[Class bell ringing]

[applause continues]

So... how's your first day
in uniform?

I think more people
have said hi to me

in the last five minutes
than in my entire life.

[Laughs]

This school knows what's up.

The uniform means
you're talented, you're hot,

and you run with me.

[Clears throat]

You girls mind
if I start my class?

Well, of course.

Floor's all yours,
Mr. Bailey.

All right, open up to page 14.

Miss Scott,
would you mind reading

the first paragraph, please,
to the class?

You made the team!

What gave it away?

So how are you enjoying
Roosevelt High so far?

Better than I thought I would.

It was a smart move
trying out.

Getting in with that crowd
helps a lot.

So I'm learning.

I'll let you get to lunch.
Congrats again.

Thanks.

See you on the field.

Where the hell
do you think you're going?

Um, I was just gonna--

- You are a Lioness cub now.
- [Giggling]

So I saw you were
talking with Patrick.

Yeah. I met him the other day.
He's really nice.

You could do better.

What do you mean?

He's a backup receiver.

I don't know what that means.

It means he's not a starter.

Okay.

Look, I just want you to know

that being on my squad means
you can have any guy you want.

Star athletes,

college students,

teachers.

It's not even like that.

Take my boyfriend,
Ryan, for example.

He's an all-state quarterback.

I really don't care
about that kind of stuff.

You will.

Image is key.
Don't forget it.

♪♪

Hands on hips,
smiles on lips!

♪ Bring it on ♪

♪ There's nothing like
the feeling ♪

♪ What you want, babe ♪

♪ What you want ♪

♪ Bring it on ♪

♪ There's nothing like
the feeling ♪

♪ Take it all day ♪

♪ Whoa, oh, oh, oh ♪

♪ There's nothing like
the feeling ♪

♪ What you want, babe
What you want ♪

♪ Bring it on ♪

Two, one. Other side.

Three, two, one.

All right, middle.

♪ What you want ♪

♪ Bring it on ♪

♪ There's nothing like
the feeling ♪

♪ What you want, babe
What you want ♪

Who rocks the house?

We rock the house!

Who rocks the house?

We rock the house!

Fierce and wild,
we fight, fight, fight!

Fierce and wild,
we win tonight!

Go, Lions!

[Clapping]

Whoo-hoo! Awesome!

Good job, girls!

Hey, someone's been
paying attention.

Oh, my God.

- Ow.
- Oh. Are you okay?

Haley, are you okay?

Sorry. I have a cramp.

Okay, do you need
to sit this one out?

- No, I'll be okay.
- Okay.

All right, everyone,
pay attention now.

Tomorrow is
the homecoming pep rally.

I need everybody tiptop.

Everybody.

That's not gonna be a problem.

- Right, Haley?
- No.

You wouldn't want to ruin
your sister's legacy, would you?

Okay, stay hydrated,
all right, sweetie?

All right,
shall we do it again?

Yes.

5, 6, 7, 8.

Who rocks the house?

AVA: Okay, I'm going to add
the sodium chlorate.

Now we need to record
the volume change.

[Giggling]

[giggling continues]

ALLYSON: Stay away from them.

Especially Katrina.

What?

[Class bell ringing]

Allyson, wait a sec.

Ava.

Katrina, hey.

Trust me, the less time you have
to spend with her, the better.

Poor girl.

Why do you say that?

You haven't heard?

She has a major
drinking problem.

Allyson?

You mean you haven't noticed
she reeks like a wino?

She got arrested last year.

Drunk and disorderly.

She actually made the squad,

but after that happened,
we had no choice but to cut her.

Wait. Allyson was a Lioness?

It's a terrible disease,
and I feel awful for her,

but we have a reputation
to protect.

Want me to talk to Mr. Bailey

about assigning you
a new lab partner?

Oh, no, that's okay.
I don't mind.

Just be careful.

I will.

So are you excited about
your first pep rally tomorrow?

Very.

I want you right up front
next to me.

Show off our new star.
[Giggling]

[stomping, clapping]

KATRINA: Ava.

Ava.

Ava!

This is the place, space case.

[Stomping, clapping]

Let's do this.

We can't hear you!

[Cheering]

Who rocks the house?

We rock the house!

Who rocks the house?

We rock the house!

Fierce and wild,
we fight, fight, fight!

Fierce and wild,
we win tonight!

Go, Lions!

[Cheering]

5, 6, 7, 8!

Are you ready?
Here we go.

♪♪

I'm gonna rock your world.

♪ Who's that girl
trippin' to the beat ♪

♪ Oh, who's that girl ♪

♪ Ain't no cheer
make her look so sweet ♪

♪ Lay it on the line
for the world to see ♪

♪ No, not just any girl ♪

♪ And there ain't nobody
bring it better than me ♪

♪ And I'm gonna rock
Yeah, I'm gonna rock

♪ And I'm gonna
rock your world ♪

♪ I'm gonna rock your world ♪

♪ I'm gonna get you higher ♪

♪ Whoa, whoa, oh ♪

♪ I'm sweeter than
a candy bar ♪

♪ Yeah, yeah ♪

♪ I'm gonna kick it higher ♪

♪ Whoa, whoa, oh, oh ♪

♪ I'm a superstar ♪

♪ Look at that cheerleader
Looks so sweet ♪

♪ Oh, oh, oh, yeah ♪

♪ Look at that cheerleader
Looks so sweet ♪

♪ Oh, oh, oh, yeah ♪

♪ Who's that girl
with her eyes made up ♪

♪ I say who's that girl ♪

♪ Gonna take the elevator
to the next floor and say ♪

♪ Oh ♪

♪ Ain't nobody bring it
better than me ♪

♪ I'm gonna rock your
I'm gonna rock your ♪

♪ I'm gonna rock
your world, world, world ♪

[cheering]

Let's hear it again for
our Roosevelt High Lionesses!

[Cheering]

Whoo!

Whoo!

No one ever clapped like that
in gymnastics.

Seriously, they loved us!

Do you see those people
with the clipboards?

They're on the CSCA committee.

They were taking notes
when we were performing.

I'm sure they were just here
for Katrina.

I don't know. I saw them
looking your way, Ava.

Really?

You must think
you're pretty good, huh?

No. It's not like that.

Well, now that you've
got your feet wet,

let's see if you've got
what it takes to swim.

- My sister had to do this.
- Do what?

Several initiations

will be taking place
in the coming weeks.

You'll never know when or where,
but attendance is mandatory.

Tonight is the first night.

I'll text you all the address.

Be there at midnight.
Wear your uniform.

Katrina?

- Mm-hmm?
- I have a curfew.

What part of "mandatory"
do you not understand?

I know it's dumb,

but I got into some trouble
last year,

and I really need to stick
to my mom's rules.

So sneak out.

I can't.

I want you to ask yourself
a question:

Are you a lioness...

or you a zebra?

A lioness.

Then grow some fangs.

See you girls tonight.

Guys, this is
breaking and entering.

Is it?

Does anyone feel the need
to contact the police?

Relax. My mom's a realtor.

Then let's get started.

That's far enough.

A toast.

To our new Lioness cubs.

I-I don't drink.

- Excuse me?
- I get sick.

How are you going to handle
the stress of being a Lioness

if you can't handle
a wittle-itty-bitty Jesus juice?

I-I'm sure one won't hurt.

[Coughing]

Now...

- [bell ringing]
- In the elevator.

Let the games begin.

[Whirring]

Oh, hell no.

We just have to do
what she says.

It's all part of the program.

I don't feel so good.

What are you up to, Katrina?

[Whirring stops]

Hello?

Is anyone down here?

[Screams]

There's someone there.

I think I'm gonna be sick.

- [Growls]
- [screaming]

Are they crazy?

They're probably
just messing with us.

They wouldn't actually
lock us in here.

This looks like a real lock.

Let's see how you do
under pressure.

Okay, just look for a way out,
maybe a key.

It's like Katrina said.
She's testing us.

Is it just me,
or is this cage getting smaller?

I thought when she said
"initiation,"

she meant like go camp
in the woods or something.

What is that?

Something isn't right.

Something's on fire.

I don't like this, guys.
I'm serious!

The building's on fire!
We're trapped!

I'm sure it's not like that.

Katrina?
Katrina!

Katrina!

Maybe they've had enough.

Not even close.

Katrina! Katrina!

They're gone!
They left us!

Haley, Haley, look at me.

Breathe.
We're gonna be fine.

It does smell like
something's burning.

Katrina! Shay! Rita!

Are you guys out there?
What's happening?

You guys, I can't breathe.
I don't think I can breathe.

Stay calm. We're gonna find
our way out of here.

Bobby pin.
I need a bobby pin!

Does anyone have a bobby pin?

- Here, here.
- Thanks.

- [Coughing]
- Almost there.

Hurry!

Come on.

Come on!

I got it!

[Slow clapping]

Congratulations.

How'd you learn
how to pick a lock?

Seems some of us are just
full of secrets, aren't we?

[Haley coughing]

Maybe we should bring her
to a hospital.

- Haley!
- [Coughs]

Relax.
She just hyperventilating.

What's going on?

You escaped.

Well, your teammates did.

You, on the other hand,
were a hot mess.

- She was just scared!
- What did I tell you?

The important part of cheer

is being able to perform well
under pressure.

[Shay clears throat]

[whirring]

Clearly Haley cannot
perform well under pressure.

She choked!

It's a real shame.

You know, your sister
was one of the best.

What do you mean?

Haley's off the team.

W-W-Wait, please.
I'm sorry.

I'm just claustrophobic.
The vodka went right to my head.

Why do you think these
traditions are so important?

You're just not
Lioness material, Haley.

What if we all had failed?

You didn't.

[Giggles]

Morning.

Morning.

How'd you sleep?

Fine.

It's funny.
The outside motion sensor

was tripped last night.

Probably just a raccoon.

Yeah, probably,
because I know

it couldn't have possibly
been my honest,

well-behaved daughter.

All right, I need to go finish
getting ready for work,

so have a great day at school.

When I first made the team,
Ryan and the other upperclassmen

made us do a bunch
of stupid crap too.

It's all just part
of the newbie package.

I feel bad for Haley.
She made it through the tryouts

and then to just
get cut like that...

It's an archaic tradition.

Just a way to tell
incoming members

they have no power
or say in anything.

It sucks, but it's part
of the whole stupid

high school food chain.

Hey, what's up, Ava?

A chain which you seem to be
climbing very quickly.

People are just nice

because they like watching me
in a tight skirt.

Ah. I know I do.

[Giggling]

Hey, what are you doing tonight?

I don't know. Why?

I was thinking,
maybe if you wanted,

we could grab a burger
or something after practice.

Are you asking me out?

Um, yes.

Took you long enough.

I mean, you almost
hit me with your car.

A burger's the least
you could do.

[Laughing]

So it's a...

That's an I'd-love-to.

[Yelling]

♪♪

♪ Step aside, gonna show you
how it's done tonight ♪

♪ Everybody out of the way ♪

♪ I'm about to stake a claim
Up ahead it's all the same ♪

♪ Baby, I've come to play ♪

[music turns off]

I was just warming up.

Hmm. I like it.

It's been awhile
since a Lioness cub

has had the chops
to take me on.

We're on the same team,
aren't we?

Are we?

♪♪ [Resumes]

♪ Step aside, gonna show you
how it's done tonight ♪

♪ Everybody out of the way ♪

♪ Oh, yeah, oh, yeah
Use it or lose it ♪

♪ Oh, yeah, yeah
Watch the way you're movin' ♪

♪ Oh, yeah, oh, yeah
This is how you do it ♪

♪ Shake it up, shake it up ♪

♪ Oh, yeah, yeah ♪

♪ Oh, yeah, yeah ♪

♪ Oh, yeah ♪

♪ Shake it up, shake it up
Watch me, watch me move ♪

♪ Use it or lose it
Oh, yeah, oh, yeah ♪

♪ Watch me move it
Oh, yeah, oh, yeah ♪

♪ This is how you do it ♪
Shake it up, shake it up ♪

♪ Step aside, gonna show you
how it's done tonight ♪

♪ Everybody out of the way ♪

♪ I'm about to stake a claim
Up ahead it's all the same ♪

♪ Baby, I've come to play ♪

♪ Oh, yeah, oh, yeah
Shake it up, shake it up ♪

♪ Shake it up ♪

- Whoo!
- Yeah!

Yeah! That was awesome!

[Cheering continues]

See? It's an app
that lets you find

any show or movie
streaming anywhere.

And you made this,
like the coding and stuff?

Yeah. I know it goes against
the whole football player image.

No. I think it's cool.

Thanks.

Don't get me wrong.
I enjoy football,

and playing on the team
makes my dad happy, so...

Oh?

He played in college,

so I know he'd love
if I followed in his footsteps,

but...

it's just not a career,
you know?

How about you?

You close to your dad?

He...

He passed away a little over
a year and a half ago.

I-I'm so sorry.

It was a car accident.

One minute he was here,

and the next, he wasn't.

That must have been awful.

He was always my biggest fan.

He came to every single
dance competition.

Every time I danced,
I knew somewhere out there,

he was smiling.

Hey.

He still is.

I took it really hard.

Like really hard.

I stopped going
to dance practice,

and I started acting out.

Skipping school,

abusing Adderall,

sneaking out.

It got so bad,

my mom had to send me
to this troubled teen program.

The place was miserable.

It was for
straight-up delinquents,

and I hated it.

Eventually, she found
a new job out here

and thought the change of
scenery would be good for me.

I'm so sorry.

I did not mean to dump all this
heavy stuff on you so fast.

No, it's okay.

It's part of your life,
and I want to know about it.

She is really happy about the
whole cheerleading thing though.

But what about you?

Are you happy?

Sure.

After everything
that happened last year,

I have a life again.

Maybe even the possibility
of a scholarship.

Even if that means being
on a team with Katrina Smith?

Okay. She's a little
high-strung.

Yeah.

You know...

she asked me out last year.

Wait. Katrina Smith
asked you out?

It's not that hard to believe.

No, no, no!
It's just...

You don't seem like her type.

Here you go.

Yes. Thank you, Charlie.

Oh, my God.
This is huge.

Best burgers in town.

Sorry. I come here
way too much.

I'm eating this entire thing.
Just letting you know now.

Good.

Me too.

[Giggles]

Is it weird that I could
still go for dessert

after a burger, fries,
and a milkshake?

A little, but I could too.

Then next time,
we'll make sure to get dessert.

Glad there will be a next time.

I'm glad that you're glad.

[Giggles]

So I don't mean
to rush things, but...

would you go to homecoming
with me?

I hear it's a big deal.

It's pretty much mandatory

for everyone on the football
and cheer team, so...

Then yes.
Sounds like it could be fun.

Fair warning though.

We probably don't have a shot
at king and queen.

Let me guess. Katrina?

And Ryan.

Every year.

[Laughing]

I had a really fun time tonight.

Me too.

I'll see you tomorrow.

Okay.

[Exhales]

[chuckles]

[toilet flushes]

Hey, Haley.
How are you?

How do you think I am?

I'm really sorry
about what happened.

It's not fair.

You don't seem sorry.

What do you mean?

You went along with it.

- It wasn't my call.
- Oh, right.

And that just makes
everything better, right?

Thanks for sticking up for me.

She still sulking?

The team meant a lot to her,
Katrina.

And it doesn't to me?

Why do you think we do this?

To ensure we have
the best team possible.

You know, I heard
a few students

talking about how they nominated
you for homecoming queen.

Really?
They nominated me?

Can't say I'm surprised.

Who wouldn't want something
fresh, new,

exciting,

beautiful,

with a perfect...

tight...

little body.

I just don't want you
to get your hopes up too high.

This school's only big enough
for one star.

[Camera clicking]

Okay, one more.

Mom, we're gonna be late!

I know, I know,
but you look so beautiful.

What about me, Mrs. Scott?
Do I look beautiful?

Oh, Patrick,
you look the beautifulest.

Okay, seriously,
we have to go.

Okay, all right, I got it.

Oh, your dad would be
so proud of you.

Thanks, Mom.

Don't forget your curfew.

Mom, I was hoping you'd be

a little more relaxed
about that tonight.

There's a little
get-together after.

Aha. Like a party?

Sort of. It's mostly cheer girls
and a few other people.

Have her home by midnight.

Absolutely, yeah.

Have fun.

Bye.

[Door opens, closes]

♪♪

So this is why everyone
left the dance early.

We don't have to stay long.

I just know
the girls on the team said

it was important
to make an appearance.

No, it's cool.
We'll have fun.

♪♪ [Continues]

Look who's here.

Ava came with Patrick?
How embarrassing.

Rita, I'll be right back.

Okay.

[Scoffs]

Shay!

Katrina!

You have already had like
three flasks at the dance.

Slow down. I don't want to
take care of you like last year.

Hey, hey, hey, congratulations!
You are-- You're the best.

And as the best,

I need you to do
a little something for me, okay?

You see Ava over there?

[Whispering]

[laughing]

Can I get you a drink?

Water would be great, please.

I'll be right back.

Okay.

Having fun?

Yeah. Congratulations
on getting queen, by the way.

Thanks. I was worried there
for a sec.

First time a new member
of the squad

has ever been on
homecoming court before.

I never stood a chance
against you.

True, but you look
really pretty tonight.

Thank you.

Well, I'd better
get back to my king.

Yes.

She's got a thing
for you, girl.

Who, Katrina?

No, the other captain
that totally showed you off

at the pep rally.

I don't think
it was showing me off.

It's okay. Just own it.

Katrina likes you the best.

I should go find Patrick.

What the hell, Shay?

Ava.

- Ava.
- Excuse me.

Ava.

It's not what you think.

I know what I saw.

Yeah, she came on to me.

Patrick, please.
I feel like such an idiot.

I trusted you.
How could you do that?

I didn't.
Ava, don't do this.

It's not at all
what it looks like.

Shay is really drunk.

Just leave me alone.

Ava...

I said leave me alone!

You okay?

Yeah, I'm fine.
I just want to be alone.

I saw what happened.

I'm sorry.

Shay can be kind of a slut,

and Patrick always
had a thing for her, so...

Look, why don't I
give you a ride?

Looks freezing out there.

Mm-hmm.

I should've listened to you
about Patrick.

Yeah, well...

we all do stupid stuff
when it comes to guys, right?

The Patricks of this world,
they're losers.

They do weird shit
to try to get to the top.

But you don't have
to worry about that.

You're already at the top.

Thanks.

Of course.

I got you.

We're teammates.

What time is it?

Um, almost one.

[Scoffs]
Shit.

Oh, right. Your curfew.

What's that all about?

I snuck out a lot last year.

Drank, got into
a ton of trouble.

I stopped going to dance.

My mom was sure
I was on drugs.

Were you?

Adderall occasionally,
but it was only because

I was pretty messed up
about losing my dad.

He was my everything.

You'll be okay now.

[Door opens, closes]

Do you know what time it is?

Sorry.

I lost track of time.

That doesn't look like
Patrick's car.

Katrina gave me a ride.

Oh.

I'm tired.
Going to bed.

Have you been drinking?

No, Mom.

- Ava...
- I just want to go to bed!

Go get some sleep.

Night.

Good night.

You didn't answer
any of my calls.

That's because I don't have
anything more to say.

She kissed me.

I would never do that.

I like you, Ava, a lot.

Ava, is there a problem?

Go away, Katrina.

Oh, you know, before I forget,

Shay wanted me to tell you that
she's not interested in you,

and she's really upset
that you took advantage of her

while she was drunk.

And you've been jealous
since day one.

Come on, Ava.

[Class bell ringing]

ALLYSON: Did you finish?

Finish what?

The assignment.

Bioconjugation.

I'm so sorry.

It was homecoming weekend.

Don't worry.
I'll get us an extension.

Assignment?

Actually, Mr. Bailey,

I'm so sorry,

but I dropped the ball
on this one.

With homecoming
and two cheer practices a day,

I didn't get the chance.

Could you give us
a few more days, please?

All right.

Don't let this
happen again, okay?

I won't. Thanks.
You're the best.

See? Easy.

[Scoffs]
It's too late.

What? No.
Didn't you just hear him?

I'm not talking about
the assignment.

Uh, hey, I just wanted
to make sure that we we're cool.

Yeah, sure.

Whatever.

Cool.

- Congratulations!
- What?

You didn't check
the CSCA Twitter this morning?

No. Why?

You and Katrina were named
top ten contenders to watch

for this year's
Cheerleader of the Year award!

Wait, what?

- Oh.
- Julie.

Hey, are you okay?

Just a little lightheaded.

I've been trying
this new juice cleanse,

and I almost passed out
in homeroom this morning.

Why are you doing that?

I mean, look at me,
look at you.

Julie, you're beautiful.

Don't-- Don't do that.
My mom does that.

You are.

You said her being good
would make me look good.

And it did.

No, I made her look good,

and now she's got
a real shot at this thing!

So work harder.

Uh-- I'm better than her!

My job is to make this team
the best it can be.

You're my captain
because you share my vision.

I do, but I also know that I
deserve Cheerleader of the Year.

- No one else.
- Okay.

Then prove it.

I intend to.

Good.

Great.

Out!

We'll see who's
Cheerleader of the Year.

Bitch!

Hey!

I'm heading to Julie's to study!

Tonight?

Shouldn't be too late.

All right, well, have fun.

Thanks.

Hey, Ava.

What?

I want you to know
that I do trust you.

I know that you're always gonna
make good choices, okay?

All right, don't be too late.
Get your work done.

What's going on, Katrina?
Why are we here?

You've proven you can
perform well under pressure,

but that's not all
that makes a true Lioness.

Tonight we're going to put
another important qualification

to the test.

And what's that?

Physical fitness.

What, are you gonna make us
run laps or something?

Oh, that's cute, but no.

I want you...

to strip.

While you're recording?

The camera never lies.

And in cheer,
looking good means everything.

Unless... you have
something to hide.

We are now streaming live

to every student
at Roosevelt High.

RYAN: Hey, check it out.

Katrina just sent out this link.

Oh, hell yes!

Down vote the pig!

What's going on?

You didn't get the link?

Vote for the hottest Lioness.

Yeah, sorry, dude,

but your girlfriend
has some serious issues.

You should be pumped.

At least you'll finally get
to see what's under Ava's shirt.

All right, ladies,
chop-chop!

Take it off.

[Katrina giggles]

Oh.

Julie, come on.

Give us a little sneak peek.

I'd rather not.

You know,
some guys actually prefer

a little junk in the trunk
over the anorexic look.

I'm just tall.

It's just us girls, right?

Take it off!

Take it off!

Take it off!

Take it off!

Take it off!

Take it off!

Enough!

You can put it back on.

How are people going to vote
if they can't see?

Wait, what do you mean, vote?

Why do you think
I'm recording right now?

We're hot,

we're fresh,

we're now.

And we are live, baby!

What?

And the survey says?

Looks like
Ava's got them all beat.

Are you insane?
Disconnect it now!

Hey!

Do you want to be
a cheerleader?

Do you want to be a star?

Then you can't be afraid
of the public.

Oh, my God.
Oh, my God.

Turn it off, Katrina!

Hey.

I'm not gonna force you
to do anything

that you're not
comfortable with.

Feel free to leave
anytime you want.

That would, of course, mean
that you'd be off the squad.

Being judged
comes with the pompoms.

I'm just trying to prepare
all of you.

Like I said,
it's totally your choice.

No, I do want to be
on the team.

Then grow a pair
and show us your goodies.

Ava, what are you doing?

I'm with Julie.

Did you not hear
what I just said?

Come on, Julie, let's go.

If you two leave,

it's sayonara for you bitches.

Oopsy.

Way to go, Patrick.

Your stupid girlfriend
ruined the show.

See the way she knocked the
camera out from Katrina's hand?

That's embarrassing, man.

You're finally up.

Didn't sleep much.

Does it have anything to do
with the message I got

from Ms. Sinclair,

saying how sorry she is
that you quit the team?

That was fast.

So what's going on?

I just don't think cheer's
a good fit after all.

Well, I don't understand.
You were loving it.

Things change.

Ava, what is going on?

Nothing!
It's just not for me, okay?

Then maybe you can explain why
your uniform reeked of vodka.

Mom...

I'm worried about you.

And you have been
really distant lately.

It's not what you think.

Then what is it?

Talk to me.
Tell me what is going on.

It's...

nothing.

Honey, I looked into
a place nearby.

It's a lot nicer
than the Center.

It's more like a retreat.

Mom, I'm not going anywhere!

You can't just send me away
because you think I have issues.

I want to help you.

I know you snuck out,
and I know you were drinking,

and I'm not so sure
you were even studying

at Julie's last night.

You really don't trust me,
do you?

Ava, I want to.

You have to understand
that's it's hard for me to.

[Scoffs]

Ava!

[Door opens, closes]

[soft chatter]

Hey, did you see that
livestream last night?

- Yes.
- Wasn't it awesome

the way that new girl
totally showed up Katrina?

Oh, my God,
that was so cool

the way she threw down
the camera like that.

Yeah, how embarrassing.

MR. BAILEY:
You want to be very careful

when pouring the bleach
in the beakers.

Also, record all your
observations on your lab sheet.

I'll start setting up
the food dyes

if you measure out
the hypochlorite samples.

You made a terrible mistake,
embarrassing her like that.

She's just
an attention-seeking bitch,

I think I'll be okay.

She won't let it go.

Hey.

I wanted to thank you
for what you did.

I should've
done something sooner.

It's okay. I get it.

I got swept up in how she is

and how I thought
she made me feel.

I wanted to be a cheerleader
for so many years.

I thought I'd do
anything for it,

but in that moment,

knowing all those people
were watching,

I just-- I couldn't.

I think we should go
to Ms. Sinclair

and tell her what happened.

Haley already tried.

She basically just told her
it was all a misunderstanding.

The success of the cheer program

is the only thing
that matters to her.

Katrina wins championships.

She's not going
to jeopardize that.

It's not right.

You remember Julie's face?

How could I forget
Jumbo Julie screaming

for five minutes straight?

I heard it got a thousand views.

Did you see how many votes
Ava got?

I think it was just seeing
somebody deny Katrina.

She's such a dumb bitch.

Katrina?

No. Ava.

I mean, she's an idiot
for throwing that all away.

We're royalty here.

Now she and Fatsy
are back to being dirt.

Plus, now I don't
have to pretend

to like Patrick anymore.
Gross.

I thought you made out with him
at the after-party.

Katrina had me do it
just to screw with Ava.

That is evil!

You should've seen
Ava's face.

Katrina thought it'd help her
gain some power over her.

At least now that's Ava's out,
Katrina doesn't have to worry

about somebody stealing
her precious throne.

Maybe now she can stop
being such a psycho.

Yeah, as if that's
ever gonna happen.

Hey, I'm looking for Patrick.
Have you seen him?

Mm-mm, mm-mm.

- She's toast.
- Yeah, man.

That's her.

Ava Scott, can you tell me
why there's stolen Oxycodone

in your locker?

No. I mean,
it's not mine.

Miss Scott, we got
an anonymous tip this morning,

and given
our zero-tolerance policy,

we searched your locker
immediately.

I have no idea
how it got there.

Do you share this locker
with anyone?

- No.
- Does anyone have your key?

No.

Are you aware of the criminal
charges for possession of this

on school property?

I swear, it's not mine!

Ava, please follow me
to my office.

Your mother is on her way.

Mom, please,
you have to believe me.

They weren't mine.

I just wish you would've
come to me first

because if you felt
like you were slipping,

you could've talked to me.

I wasn't slipping!
I had nothing to do with this!

You just got suspended for
having drugs in your locker!

You do understand why this is
so hard for me to believe you.

I know, but I wish you would.

Well, maybe if last year
didn't happen, I would.

But, Ava, I am so worried.

I don't even know
what to do anymore.

I never took Oxy!

Last year
I was upset about dad,

and I skipped school
a few times,

drank once or twice.

It's not the same thing.

It can snowball.

But it hasn't.

Please. Listen to me.

I didn't do it.

Okay, then who did?

I think it was Katrina.

The cheer captain?

She's not who we
thought she was.

I'm going to prove it to you
and everybody else.

Maybe this was just too much
for you, after Dad.

You know, the move,
the new school.

[Scoffs]

- [car alarm beeps]
- [car door closes]

[engine starts]

You're going down.

Ava.

I need to talk to you.

I thought you'd be grounded.

Luckily my mom
works too much.

So it's true what they said.

Yeah, but they weren't mine.

Look, I need to apologize.

I know you didn't kiss Shay,

that it was all Katrina.

Yeah. I tried to tell you.

And guess who put those pills
in my locker?

Wow.

She's a horrible person,
Patrick.

The hazing needs to stop.

Her control over people
needs to stop.

She needs to be stopped.

I want to expose her
for who she truly is.

I don't know
if we can do it alone.

Do you know anyone else
that could help us?

[Scoffs]
What are you doing here?

We want to stop Katrina.

Allyson!

You can't.

I know you were a Lioness.

That was another life.

What happened?

Same as you.
Just wasn't my thing.

Bullshit.
It was Katrina, wasn't it?

That's why you warned me
about her.

It's why you walk the other way
every time she's around.

[Sighs]

At first,
everything was great.

I made the squad.

People liked me.

But then initiations started.

They made us stand blindfolded,

and Ryan and a few other
starters from the football team

kissed us.

Then they ranked us
on how good we were.

I-I refused to do it.

It felt wrong and dirty.

Katrina told me
that I can make up for it

by doing something else
of her choosing.

I agreed.

I wanted to stay on the team.

Katrina, Rita, and Shay

showed up in my room
in the middle of the night,

and then they blindfolded me
and brought me to the field

and ordered me to strip,

ordered me to drink.

A lot.

Then campus security showed up.

I later figured out that Katrina
called them on purpose.

They charged me
with underage drinking,

drunk and disorderly conduct,

and indecent exposure.

I mean, I tried
to talk to the police

and tell 'em that
it was all Katrina's fault.

But when they
talked to Ms. Sinclair,

she vouched for Katrina.

She didn't want to lose
her prized captain.

And would you believe that...

Katrina told my parents
she was sorry,

but had to kick me off the team
because I had a criminal record.

She's a monster.

That's putting it lightly.

We're gonna put an end
to all of this,

make sure she stops
hurting people.

You can't.

Hey, the Lionesses are
the pride of Roosevelt High,

She has everyone in her pocket.

There's nothing you can do.
No one will believe you.

She already got me suspended.

I think it's time we get even.

You'll need proof.

What about the livestream?

It was deleted.
I checked.

[Phone ringing]

Wait.

Tiffany's calling me.

Tiffany?

I'm sorry. I know I shouldn't
be talking to you,

but I didn't know
who else to call.

- What has she done now?
- Nothing yet, but at practice,

she said since things went so wrong at the last initiation

that she's raising the stakes
on this one.

Raising the stakes?
What does that mean?

I'm not sure, but when she
looked at Shay and Rita,

even they seemed freaked out.

I'm scared.

Okay, did she tell you
where to go?

Yes. I'm on my way
downtown right now.

Downtown?
Downtown where?

She'd be so mad if she found out
I was talking to you.

I can't help you
if you don't tell me, Tiffany.

Where are you going?

She said to meet on the roof
of the building we broke into.

The roof?

I guess the other cubs
just didn't have what it takes.

I have a problem putting
too much trust into people.

But not with you, right, Tiff?

You won't let me down?

I knew you were the best.

So tall.

So skinny.

One last task,

and you're on the team
for life.

What do you want me to do,
just sit here and drink?

I want you to walk.

Walk where?

Follow me.

Along there.

TIFFANY: You're joking.

What's the matter,
don't you trust me?

You sure you wanna do this?

It's the only way.

Oh, come on!
Some gymnast you are.

This thing is twice the width
of a balance beam.

I-I can't do heights.

You have nothing
to worry about

because you'll be
wearing this.

RITA: Tell me you're just
messing with her.

If she falls, she dies.

Motivation to not fall.

Ready?

AVA: I wanna try!

Ava? What are you
doing here?

I want back in.

Excuse me?

I made a mistake.

I never should've
walked away from you,

from the team.

I know I ruined the livestream.
I'm sorry.

But now I understand
why you do these initiations.

The Lionesses have to be
better than everyone else.

Please.

I can't go back to who I was
before I met you.

I'm glad you came
to your senses.

So I can come back?

If you complete
one last task.

That's why I'm here.

Give me the scarf.

Wait.

What about the suspension?

Gone.

How are you gonna do that
without giving yourself up?

I'll tell Mrs. Williams

I overheard a couple burnouts
bragging about it.

That's the thing
about being me.

People seem to believe
anything I say.

I'm impressed.

You must really
want back on the team.

I do. Don't wanna end up
like Allyson.

[Ava panting]

KATRINA: Now climb up.

[Katrina giggling]

How much further do I have?

A lot.

Keep going.

Got enough?

Yeah, I got it.

I've been livestreaming
all of this to Mrs. Williams.

Oh, yeah, and the entire
police department.

You!

You did this?

Wave to all the parents
and teachers

watching what you make students
do just to stay on the team.

I...

No, no, I've been framed.

Really?

Put it down.
Put it down!

- [Screams]
- No!

- [Screaming]
- TIFFANY: Ava! Ava!

Ava!

Take my hand.

- I can't! I'll fall!
- Take it!

No, I got you. Come on.

Are you okay?

- Did you get it?
- Yeah.

Sent a link to every parent
and teacher email on the system.

We're good.

- We got her.
- Yeah.

Wow. I...

I had no idea that Katrina
was doing this kind of thing.

I would never have
let that happen.

I just thought
it was fun and games,

I didn't realize
the extent of it all.

Maybe you'll realize this:

You're fired.

- Fired?
- Yes.

Do you know what I've done
for this school?

Do you know how many trophies
my girls have won?

You have done enough.

- I had nothing to do with this!
- The evidence is right here.

- Excuse me.
- I think we can see clearly!

Championship
after championship!

This might not be
a great time,

but we should probably
break up.

[Cheering]

Bye.

[Cheering continues]

I'm glad you're okay.

I'm sorry I didn't believe you
about Katrina.

I had no idea what was happening
in your life.

It's okay, Mom.

I let it get too far.

I should have let you in
on what was really happening.

I promise I'll do better.

Me too.

I love you more than anything.

I love you too.

[Stomping, clapping]

Introducing our
Roosevelt High Lionesses!

[Cheering]

Headed by our newly minted
Cheerleader of the Year,

Ava Scott!

- ♪♪ [March]
- [cheering]

Who's ready to win tonight?!

We can't hear you!

[Cheering]

5, 6, 7, 8!

Who rocks the house?

We rock the house!

Who rocks the house?

We rock the house!

Fierce and wild,
we fight, fight, fight!

Fierce and wild,
we win tonight!

Go, Lions!

♪♪ [Drumming]

[chuckles]

♪♪

♪ Step aside, gonna show you
how it's done tonight ♪

♪ Everybody out of the way ♪

♪ Oh, yeah, oh, yeah
Use it or lose it ♪

♪ Oh, yeah, yeah
Watch the way you're movin' ♪

♪ Oh, yeah, oh, yeah
This is how you do it ♪

♪ Shake it up, shake it up ♪

♪ Oh, yeah, yeah ♪

♪ Oh, yeah, yeah ♪

♪ Oh, yeah ♪

♪ Shake it up, shake it up
Watch me, watch me move ♪

♪ Use it or lose it
Oh, yeah, oh, yeah ♪

♪ Watch me move it
Oh, yeah, oh, yeah ♪

♪ This is how you do it ♪
Shake it up, shake it up ♪

♪ Step aside, gonna show you
how it's done tonight ♪

♪ Everybody out of the way ♪

♪ Oh, yeah, oh, yeah ♪

♪ Shake it up, shake it up ♪

♪ Oh, yeah, yeah ♪

♪ Shake it up ♪