Review by: Sylvia Renda
Win or Lose is a 2025 8-episode-long animated Pixar show. The show follows a middle school softball team named The Pickles and the week going up to their state championship game. Each episode shows one player’s side of the story, what their week looked like, and their inner feelings. However, at the end of the week, nearly everyone is in tatters. But they manage to put their struggles aside and come together as a team in the end.
In episode one; Coach's Kid, it covers the themes of anxiety in the perspective of the coach’s kid, Laurie. Episode two; Blue, covers the topic of how love can be difficult sometimes, while watching the umpire’s day to day life. Episode three (Raspberry) demonstrates how some kids need to grow up faster than others, while showcasing the star catcher, Rochelle’s life. In episode four (Pickle) it connects with episode three, in the perspective of Rochelle’s mom and how she cares for her family. While in episode four (Steal) it goes through the struggle of being the youngest one, and being often disrespected and pushed around as Ira, the youngest in the show, makes some questionable choices and makes friends with some shady teens. Episode six (Mixed Signals)covers the issues of teen love, and self-esteem issues, through The Pickle’s star pitcher, Yuwen. In seven, (I Got It) it shows the story of Kai, The Pickle’s ‘MVP’ and her father’s pressure for her to succeed. Finally, in episode 8, the whole story comes together as everyone is forced to face their issues in the championship game.
I highly suggest this show to people who like media based on mental health, some romance, and teamwork. However, people of all interests and ages have loved this show and its deep meaning.