Directed by Lee Gabiana and written by Jane Espenson and Christina Welsh, Killing the Competition is a gripping drama that delves into the dark side of parental ambition. Starring Melissa Joan Hart, Lily Brooks O’Briant, and Valerie Loo, the film follows a mother’s descent into obsession after her daughter is cut from her alma mater’s dance team. Premiering on Lifetime on March 1, 2025, this intense story explores the lengths a parent will go to protect their child’s dreams—and the consequences of crossing the line.
Filmed in Fairmont, West Virginia, Killing the Competition blends emotional drama with suspense, offering a cautionary tale about the pressures of competition and the dangers of living vicariously through others.
The Plot: A Mother’s Descent
Elizabeth (Melissa Joan Hart) is a devoted mother who takes immense pride in her daughter Grace’s (Lily Brooks O’Briant) talent as a dancer. When Grace is cut from her alma mater’s prestigious dance team, Elizabeth’s world unravels. Convinced that the decision was unfair, Elizabeth becomes consumed by anger and begins to sabotage the team and its members. As her actions escalate, she risks not only her own future but also the relationships she holds dear.
Meet the Cast
- Melissa Joan Hart as Elizabeth, the fiercely protective mother.
- Lily Brooks O’Briant as Grace, the talented but conflicted daughter.
- Valerie Loo as Hannah, Grace’s rival and a key figure in the drama.
- Eddie Mills as Steve, Elizabeth’s supportive but concerned husband.
- Anzu Lawson as Nicole, the dance coach caught in the crossfire.
- Cynthia Dallas as Officer Lee, who becomes involved as the situation spirals out of control.
Supporting roles include Olivia Gill, Davis Aguila, and Cindy Lowther, who add depth to the film’s exploration of ambition and morality.
Key Details
- Genre: Drama
- Country: United States
- Language: English
- Release Date: March 1, 2025 (Lifetime)
- Runtime: 1 hour 28 minutes
- Filming Locations: Fairmont, West Virginia, USA
- Also Known As: Killing the Competition Movie, Killing the Competition Lifetime
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where can I watch Killing the Competition?
The film premieres on Lifetime on March 1, 2025.
2. Is this based on a true story?
No, the film is a fictional narrative inspired by the pressures of competitive environments.
3. Is there a trailer?
The trailer is expected to release in early 2025.
4. Will the film be available on streaming platforms?
Lifetime movies often become available for streaming on the network’s platform after their premiere.
5. What themes does the movie explore?
Parental pressure, the dark side of ambition, and the consequences of obsession.
6. How intense is the drama?
The film balances emotional depth with suspense, making it a compelling watch for fans of psychological dramas.
Why You Should Watch
Killing the Competition is a thought-provoking drama that highlights the dangers of unchecked ambition and the pressures of competitive environments. Melissa Joan Hart delivers a powerful performance as a mother pushed to the edge, while Lily Brooks O’Briant shines as a young dancer caught in the crossfire. With its tense narrative and relatable themes, the film is a must-watch for fans of Lifetime’s signature dramas.
Mark Your Calendars
Don’t miss Killing the Competition on Lifetime on March 1, 2025. A story of love, obsession, and the cost of ambition, this film will keep you on the edge of your seat.
