Netflix drops trailer for Raygun Olympic breakdance documentary

Netflix ↗ 5.43% has released the official trailer for "Untold Raygun: Breaking Badly," a documentary chronicling Australian breakdancer Rachael Gunn's viral zero-point performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics and the internet firestorm that followed. The film premieres September 1.usatoday+1

'The Whole World Could Laugh at Me'

The trailer, exclusively debuted by USA TODAY on Wednesday, reveals the anxiety Gunn experienced before taking the stage at Place de la Concorde on August 9, 2024. "Right before the Olympics, I went to my therapist, panicked," Gunn says in the footage. "She was like, 'What's the worst that could happen?' 'The whole world could laugh at me!' She's like, 'Do you think that's reasonable?'"usatoday

Gunn, 38, who holds a Ph.D. from Macquarie University where she worked as a lecturer, lost all three rounds against competitors from the United States, France, and Lithuania without earning a single point. Her unconventional moves — including a kangaroo-inspired routine — became one of the most discussed moments of the Paris Games.usatoday

"I know I'm a dorky white woman who's an academic," Gunn says in the documentary. "And I'm a B-girl."usatoday

Memes, Conspiracies, and a 'Growing Monster'

The documentary, directed by Chapman and Maclain Way as part of Netflix's critically acclaimed "Untold" docuseries, explores what happened after the performance went viral. According to the Netflix press release, an "avalanche of memes, misinformation, and conspiracy theories" followed, with many questioning how Gunn qualified for the Olympic stage.thefutoncritic

"Some of the memes were funny," Gunn acknowledges in the trailer. "Then the tone started to change." She describes the backlash as "this growing monster."usatoday

A Change.org petition demanding an investigation into Gunn's selection garnered over 55,000 signatures before being removed. The Australian Olympic Committee responded that Gunn was selected through "a transparent and independent qualification event and nomination process."usatoday

Family Reactions and What Comes Next

The documentary also features candid moments with Gunn's family. When her father is asked whether he ever associated "Olympian" with his daughter growing up, he bursts into laughter. Her mother admits the thought "never" crossed her mind.usatoday

"Untold Raygun: Breaking Badly" is the second installment of the new "Untold" season, which begins August 25 with weekly standalone releases. The series is produced by Propagate and Stardust Frames Productions.thefutoncritic