New Documentary Explores Sally Ride’s Legacy and Personal Life

The film highlights Ride’s groundbreaking achievements as the first American woman in space and her private struggles, including her long-concealed identity as a lesbian.

• The documentary 'Sally', premiering at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival, delves into the life of Sally Ride, the first American woman in space, showcasing her professional achievements and personal challenges.
• Archival footage and dramatized reenactments are used to explore Ride’s experiences at NASA, including the sexism she faced and her pioneering role in adapting astronaut equipment for women.
• The film reveals the intense media scrutiny Ride endured, with reporters often focusing on her gender and personal life rather than her qualifications and expertise.
• Ride’s private life, including her decades-long relationship with Tam O’Shaughnessy, is a central theme, though some critics question the film's speculative approach to her emotions and inner thoughts.
• The documentary also reflects on societal attitudes of the time, including homophobia and sexism, which shaped Ride’s decision to keep her sexuality private until her death in 2012.

3 Articles

People TheWrap IndieWire