While action is an important part of sports movies, it’s the lessons about life that make the best ones memorable. Most embody themes of teamwork and perseverance. Here are the ten greatest sports movies ever made.
10. Moneyball
Based on the book by Michael Lewis, the film follows the true story of Oakland A’s general manager, Billy Beane. He used statistical analysis to build a winning baseball team on a shoestring budget. The film blends behind-the-scenes maneuvering with baseball excitement. Most of all, the movie conveys the message of being willing to change and creates intense emotional moments.
9. Rudy
Apart from Rocky, Rudy might be the best underdog film ever. Based on the true story of Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger, it follows his unrelenting dedication to his dream of playing football for Notre Dame. He just wants a chance to play. His optimism and never-give-up attitude are extremely inspiring to anyone with a dream — no matter what it is.
8. A League of Their Own
Inspired by a true story, the film’s premise uses the fact that, during World War II, many male baseball players were drafted and sent off to war. This led to female players being drafted into the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL). While parts are fictional, and it has a lot of comedy, there are also seriously moving moments.
7. Hoosiers
Hoosiers is based on a true story. It follows the Hickory Huskers, a small-town Indiana high school basketball team striving to win under the leadership of a new but controversial coach (played by Gene Hackman). The film plays on themes of perseverance, teamwork, and believing in oneself. There are some outstanding and gripping basketball scenes.
6. Field of Dreams
Many call this film sappy, but it may be one of the best feel-good movies ever. The film portrays baseball as symbolizing all that is good about America. In this magical tale blending fantasy and reality, an Iowa farmer builds a baseball diamond in his cornfield after hearing a mysterious whisper say: “If you build it, he will come.”
5. Major League
Major League combines humor with heart. In this fictionalized tale, a former Vegas showgirl inherits the struggling Cleveland Indians from her deceased husband. This hilarious comedy also manages to show the power of teamwork and dedication as the misfit players defy all odds and turn their losing streak around. It stars Tom Berenger, Charlie Sheen, and Corbin Bernsen.
4. The Sandlot
This coming-of-age film focuses on Scott Smalls, a new kid in town who is befriended by local kids who play baseball in the neighborhood sandlot. In a flashback, the film revisits the summer of 1962. It’s a film that will make anyone reminisce about their youth. Its quote, “You’re killin’ me, Smalls! ” is now part of the American vernacular.
3. Remember the Titans
Set amid racial tension in 1970s Virginia, this film, based on a true story, focuses on high school football coach Herman Boone (played by Denzel Washington), who works to unite the racially divided team. As the school tries to desegregate and integrate, Boone helps the team develop camaraderie. They finished undefeated in 1971 and second in the US.
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2. Miracle
This film is based on the true story of the events leading to the 1980 US Olympic hockey team’s underdog victory over the Soviet Union. The film explores the personal struggles of the team members and weaves those with political tension. There is plenty of hockey action. Kurt Russell’s performance has audiences both cheering and tearful.
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1. Rocky
It’s more than just a sports movie; Rocky is a film about determination, perseverance, and the human spirit in the face of adversity. Small-time boxer Rocky Balboa gets a once-in-a-lifetime shot at the heavyweight championship against the formidable Apollo Creed. Sylvester Stallone was nominated for Best Actor and Best Screenplay Oscars. Rocky won the Best Picture Academy Award.
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