Sports Films
For any individual ever involved in sports--whether it was gymnastics in 3rd grade, soccer in high school, or adult slow-pitch softball--there is always that one sports film that will bring back memories of triumph, sacrifice, camaraderie, and even laughter. Sports movies stand out in the film world as a genre that can move you to action, motivate you to work harder, produce knee-slapping laughter, or bring you to tears. They have played important roles in the inspiration-building moments of all generations in the format of documentaries, comedies, drama, and action/adventure, to name a few. These films can be classified as having a sports setting (soccer stadium, hockey arena, basketball court), competitive event (a fight, competition, or race), and/or an athlete that is central to the story. They may be fictional, based on a true story, or a mixture of both.
Because of the awe-inspiring effect that such films have on the general audience, you can guarantee that just about any type of sport ever played--from ping-pong 
to basketball to dodgeball --will have a movie based around it. If your corporate bowling team is having a difficult time finishing out the season, you might want to consult your local Movie Rental for a copy of Kingpin. Coaching a little-league team and need to boost team spirit? Check out The Bad News Bears, Field of Dreams, or Angels in the Outfield. If you are a follower of a specific athlete, documentaries galore have amassed over the years: your go-to flicks might be The Jackie Robinson Story, The Babe, or Ali. Is the subtle game of poker (Rounders ) or golf (Caddyshack ) your style? There are plenty to choose from in those sports as well. Take a look at the movies below--you might be adding some of these gems to your Netflix queue.
New Releases
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Speed Racer This quick-flick soothes your 'need for speed': it is an adaptation of the Japanese animated cartoon in which a young man sets out to confront his rival on the racetrack. |
Leatherheads Can't get enough of George? Clooney wrote, directed, and starred in this rough-and-tumble comedy about a female reporter and an aging football player caught in a love triangle. |
The Wrestler Mickey Rourke makes a tremendous comeback in this inspirational film about a retired wrestler working his way back into the fighting ring to face his longtime rival. |
The Express Based on a true story, this drama celebrates the life of Ernie Davis, who was the first African American to win the Heisman Trophy. |
The Classics
These movies have been around for more than 10 years and are still avidly watched and loved by people of all ages today. If you are a fan of sports, you most likely have seen all or most of these films, but even the non-athletes will enjoy these classics for their ingenuity, charm, and inspirational stories.
Comedies
Need a mental break from those intense practices? These side-splitting films might not have the same classy edge as some of their siblings, but they bring out the lighter side of the sports world and demonstrate inspiration in a different manner--through the shenanigans and bumbling mishaps of all types of players and athletes. But remember kids, don't try this at home (or on the playing field)!
Young Adult Films
Sports movies appeal to individuals of all ages, and young adults are no exception. Some of these classics have been around for decades, so don't miss out on sharing a bonding experience with Mom or Dad--one of these movies might have been a favorite when they were kids as well!
Other Favorites
Box office hits, Academy Awards, Top 10 Lists... these sports films have blasted their way into the limelight of the movie universe and continue to motivate and inspire long after leaving the theaters. You are bound to find at least a couple in every movie collection. If you have yet to see some of these beauties, grab some popcorn, maybe a beer or soda, invite over a friend, and prepare to be blown away!
Related Guides
External Links
- FilmSite.org: A site listing the top 50 sports films of all time according to Sports Illustrated.
- SportsInMovies.com: Provides an extensive database of movies that contain sports.
- Wikipedia.org: An online encyclopedia offering a conglomerated list of sports movies.
