The Winning Circle

About This Movie

The Winning Circle is a bit of an oddity from the 1980s BMX craze, blending racing with a spiritual journey. T.J. is this determined kid, fiercely competitive and quite the underdog, which gives it a nice undercurrent of tension. The pacing is a little uneven at times, but there's a certain charm to its earnestness, especially when T.J. starts grappling with faith and what it means to be a true champion. The performances are pretty raw, but they carry a genuine weight—especially as T.J. learns from his cousin. The film captures that nostalgic vibe of the BMX scene, complete with some practical tricks that are fun to watch, but overall, it’s the thematic conflict that really sets it apart from typical sports flicks.

The Winning Circle has a bit of a niche following due to its BMX theme and the rarity of physical copies, particularly on VHS. It was never widely released, making it a bit of a treasure hunt for collectors. Its unique blend of sports and spiritual themes gives it a distinctive angle, and while not mainstream, it certainly piques the interest of those who appreciate lesser-known gems from the 80s. Keep an eye out for any gatherings or swaps, as this title occasionally surfaces in collector circles.