Netflix to Release Groundbreaking Documentary on Nathan Cleary: โThe Dark Horseโ Set to Premiere July 25
Sydney, Australia โ July 14, 2025 โ Netflix is set to premiere one of the most highly anticipated sports documentaries of the year, โThe Dark Horseโ, a powerful feature film chronicling the extraordinary journey of Penrith Panthers superstar Nathan Cleary. The documentary is scheduled for global release on July 25, 2025, and is already generating significant buzz across sporting and streaming communities.
Directed by acclaimed Australian filmmaker Sarah Noakes, The Dark Horse offers an intimate and unfiltered look at Clearyโs rise from a humble Western Sydney upbringing to the very summit of rugby league. The film is expected to blend gripping behind-the-scenes footage with exclusive interviews and career-defining moments, giving fans rare access into the mind and heart of one of the NRLโs most iconic players.
โItโs a story about belief, pressure, and legacy,โ Noakes said. โNathan Cleary isnโt just a football playerโheโs become a symbol of modern Australian sporting culture.โ
๐ A Star Forged in Fire
Nathan Clearyโs career has been defined by relentless dedication, technical mastery, and an uncanny ability to deliver under pressure. From his debut with the Panthers in 2016 to his role as co-captain during their record-breaking three-peat premiership run (2021โ2023), Cleary has emerged as not only a leader on the field but also a role model off it.
The documentary traces Clearyโs evolution through pivotal momentsโincluding his legendary 2023 Grand Final performance, considered by many to be one of the greatest in NRL history. With never-before-seen training footage, game-day audio, and personal reflections, The Dark Horse explores the emotional highs and lows that come with life under the spotlight.
๐จโ๐ฆ Family, Fame, and Footy
At the heart of the story is the powerful dynamic between Nathan and his father, Ivan Cleary, who also serves as head coach of the Panthers. The documentary captures the unique father-son bond, revealing how personal relationships influence elite sport and leadership.
The film also features interviews with teammates such as Jarome Luai, Brian Toโo, and Isaah Yeo, as well as commentary from rugby league legends and media personalities whoโve followed Clearyโs journey.
โNathan has always carried expectations far beyond his years,โ said Ivan Cleary. โBut what sets him apart is how he thrives in it.โ
๐ Global Reach for a Local Hero
With Netflix now investing heavily in international sports content, The Dark Horse is part of a strategic effort to bring rugby league to global audiences. Much like Drive to Survive did for Formula 1, this documentary could serve as a cultural bridgeโintroducing millions to the drama, skill, and passion of the NRL.
A senior Netflix executive called the film, โA world-class portrait of determination and discipline. Whether you know rugby league or not, youโll know Nathan Cleary by the end.โ
๐ฌ Release Details
The Dark Horse will premiere exclusively on Netflix worldwide on July 25, 2025, with subtitles in over 20 languages. Early reviews from internal screenings have praised it as โemotional,โ โinspirational,โ and โvisually stunning.โ
promotion.
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