Netflix’s five part documentary film series is delivering above and beyond my expectation with fascinating stories from all around the world of sport, from basketball to hockey to boxing. The third episode tells the story of Caitlyn (‘Bruce’) Jenner’s journey to Decathlon Olympic gold, her struggles with her identity and the eventual transition to her true self.

Perhaps best known as a member of the notorious Kardashian family, Caitlyn Jenner’s transition as a transgendered woman was highly publicised and the topic of much discussion. In this episode, Caitlyn reflects on her past and the idea that her identity issues and need to prove herself may well have been the fuel that led to an Olympic gold medal.

After discovering a natural talent for sports in the sixth grade, Caitlyn found an outlet – or more truthfully, a distraction – for her internal struggles and she pushed her ‘Bruce’ persona to the limits in order to gain international recognition and acceptance as the ‘World’s Greatest Athlete’, a title often bestowed upon those who reach the pinnacle of the Decathlon.

A blend of archival footage, home video and talking head interviews accompany Caitlyn’s recollections including vigorous training sessions, the quiet collapse of her first marriage and the struggles of keeping a secret with the eyes of the world watching.

This was another solid instalment in the Untold series although my enjoyment was hindered slightly by the fact that I already had an awareness of what was coming. In fact, the Caitlyn Jenner episode is the only one of the five documentary films that I didn’t go in completely blind. Despite each episode having its own director, this time it’s Crystal Moselle in the big chair, each instalment has a similar aesthetic that steadily unfolds and is captivating to watch.

Once again, Untold gently tackles complex themes of mental health, identity and gender dysphoria. This subtle ‘take what you will’ attitude, in my opinion is so much more powerful and effective than some of the more in your face messages out there, and the almost isolated delivery from Caitlyn Jenner makes this a much more personal and reflective story than the previous two instalments.

Untold: Caitlyn Jenner is now available to stream on Netflix.

Don’t forget to check out the other Untold episodes
– Malice At The Palace
– Deal With The Devil
– Crime And Penalties
– Breaking Point