Netflix has once again tapped into the emotional heart of sport, unveiling its highly anticipated docuseries “Collingwood: Beyond the Black and White.” The series, which debuted this week, offers viewers unprecedented behind-the-scenes access into one of Australia’s most celebrated and controversial sporting clubs—the Collingwood Football Club. For generations, Collingwood has commanded both adoration and disdain in equal measure, and now, the cameras bring fans up close to the raw emotions, rivalries, and resilience that define this iconic team.
A Club Like No Other
Collingwood’s history in the Australian Football League (AFL) is one of triumph and turmoil. With a record number of members and a fan base that spans generations, the Magpies are more than just a team—they are a cultural institution. The documentary captures this essence, painting Collingwood not only as a football club but as a way of life.
The series begins by diving into the origins of the club, touching on the working-class roots that fueled its growth. From the early premiership glories of the 1920s to the heartbreaking losses in countless grand finals, “Beyond the Black and White” highlights the narrative arcs that have cemented Collingwood’s reputation as both revered and ridiculed.
Drama On and Off the Field
What sets this series apart is the level of access granted to Netflix. Cameras follow the Magpies’ current roster through the ups and downs of the AFL season, from the pressure-packed training sessions at Olympic Park to the intensity of game day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Players speak candidly about the relentless pressure of wearing black and white stripes—where every mistake is magnified by the scrutiny of millions.
The show doesn’t shy away from controversy, either. It confronts head-on the club’s struggles with cultural and administrative challenges, including recent reckonings with identity, inclusivity, and leadership. Interviews with past and present coaches, captains, and critics reveal the ongoing debate about what Collingwood truly stands for in modern Australia.
Legacy and Loyalty
One of the most emotional threads of the series is the portrayal of Collingwood’s fan base. Supporters speak with raw passion about the devotion passed down through families. For many, being a Magpie isn’t just about football—it’s about community, pride, and identity. The cameras capture heart-wrenching moments of joy, despair, and unity in the stands, offering a reminder of why sport matters beyond the scoreboard.
Legends of the game such as Nathan Buckley and Peter Daicos feature prominently, reflecting on their careers while acknowledging the immense expectations placed on anyone associated with Collingwood. These moments blend seamlessly with the stories of emerging stars who hope to write the next great chapter in the club’s story.
A Cinematic Experience
Visually, the series is striking. Sweeping shots of the MCG filled with over 90,000 fans create a cinematic backdrop to intimate locker-room conversations and training-ground struggles. Netflix’s production values elevate the AFL experience to a global stage, ensuring even viewers unfamiliar with the sport are drawn into its drama.
The series also benefits from a stirring soundtrack and a narrative structure that balances Collingwood’s turbulent past with its uncertain future. The pacing keeps audiences hooked, leaving each episode on a note that compels the next.
“Collingwood: Beyond the Black and White” isn’t just for diehard AFL fans. It’s a story about ambition, adversity, and resilience. For Australians, it offers a mirror to a sporting culture that is deeply tied to identity and tradition. For international viewers, it opens the door to understanding why Australian Rules Football—and particularly Collingwood—elicits such strong emotions.
Ultimately, the series underscores a truth that transcends sport: greatness is not defined by perfection but by the ability to endure, evolve, and inspire.
With “Collingwood: Beyond the Black and White” now streaming on Netflix, one thing is certain—the legend of the Magpies has never been told quite like this before.