In the early days, long before the Bring It On franchise, a slew of movies focused on cheerleaders filled the screens. The reason is simple: these films appealed to a significant part of the audience, leading to cheeky sex comedies where cheerleaders often found themselves in risqué situations. The low production costs paired with high returns spurred the rise of the "cheer exploitation" subgenre, known for its sheer ratio of nudity over plot.
Here's a look at five such cheer exploitation movies you might have missed.
The Cheerleaders (1973) - Directed by Paul Glicker, this sex comedy follows the cheerleaders of Amarosa High School as they use their charm to exhaust opposing teams before games. Despite a misleading cover and alternate title, the film drew audiences and earned over ten times its budget.
The Swinging Cheerleaders (1974) - This sequel, directed by Jack Hill, explores a reporter's undercover stint as a cheerleader, revealing layers of social commentary amidst lighter elements. Initially a successful hit, the film perpetuated interest in this genre.
Revenge of the Cheerleaders (1976) - Directed by Richard Lerner, it features returning exploitation actress Cheryl Rainbow Smith. The film humorously presents cheerleaders battling against greedy real estate developers.
The Great American Girl Robbery (1979) - A comedy by Jeff Werner about kidnapped cheerleaders, it found life in drive-in and grindhouse circuits despite its low budget.
Cheerleaders Beach Party (1978) - Directed by Alex E. Goine, this release spices up the typical sports rivalry narrative with a plot full of humor and seduction.
These films represent a distinctive era in cinema, celebrating audacity and frivolity, cementing their place in the annals of film history.