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The world of sports has always been a source of inspiration, drama, and human achievement, and cinema has beautifully captured these elements in countless sports movies over the years. In this list of the 50 best sports movies of all time, we celebrate the films that have left a lasting impact. From classics like Rocky and Raging Bull to heartwarming tales like Hoosiers and Rudy, these movies cover a wide range of sports and themes.
Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan or just someone looking for a great story, this list has something for everyone. These films remind us of the power of sports to inspire and unite us, both on and off the screen. So, grab some popcorn, gather your friends and family, and get ready to relive the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat with the 50 best sports movies of all time.
50. The Way Back (2020)
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For those of you looking for a recent film, here is one — The Way Back. Starring in the film is Ben Affleck. Affleck’s character, Jack Cunningham, is a former star basketball player-turned-alcoholic construction worker who returns to his high school to coach its basketball team. Affleck puts forth a very strong performance, capturing Cunningham’s inner turmoil and pain in a way that connects to the audience in a deep, emotional way. It is not out of the question that Affleck could earn some top-end recognition come next year’s award shows.
49. Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story (2004)
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“Joanie loves Chachi!”
“Remember the 5 D’s of dodgeball: Dodge, Dip, Duck, Dive, and uh…Dodge!”
“Because at Globo Gym, We’re better than you! And we know it.”
“Ouchtown, population you, Bro!”
The four quotes above make it pretty clear this film wasn’t competing for Academy Awards. But if you’re looking to see Ben Stiller with a feathered hair/ridiculous mustache combo, Justin Long as a dorky cheerleader, Vince Vaughn as the same character he plays in every film (fast-talking wise guy who gets the girl way out of his league), and/or just want a good laugh, this is a movie worth watching.
48. The Pride of the Yankees (1942)
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If you’re a fan of the New York Yankees or baseball history, this film is for you. It acts to pay homage to then-recently deceased MLB star Lou Gehrig. This biopic of sorts illuminated Gehrig’s character as a human. It wasn’t so much about his baseball accomplishments — though those were vast. Even more thrilling for fans of the genre, Babe Ruth played himself in the 1942 film. The final scene in the movie will make even the most casual baseball fan emotional.
47. The Waterboy (1998)
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This movie is utterly ridiculous. Yet, it boasts more one-liners than a Dave Chappelle comedy special on Netflix. Adam Sandler’s portrayal of stereotypical redneck Bobby Boucher on the Bayou is hilariously funny. When his special football talent is accidentally unleashed, Boucher turns a terrible college football program into a force to be reckoned with. Kathy Bates shines as his concerned mother, and Vicki Vallencourt (Fairuza Balk) is perfect as the girl your parents always warned you about.
46. Coach Carter (2005)
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Samuel L. Jackson has played a multitude of roles throughout his impressive career. However, none might possess the same sort of heart as his role in Coach Carter. Portraying real-life head basketball coach Ken Carter, Jackson’s character is tasked with transforming a downtrodden basketball program beset by poverty. This team isn’t supposed to be anything of consequence. However, Carter instills both work ethic and discipline within the team residing in the rough Northern California city of Richmond. In the process, the likable bunch of players begins to win — and thus galvanizes the hometown in the process.
45. Seabiscuit (2003)
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We get it, it’s a horse. Some people may not consider this a true sports film, but that thought is wrong. Horse racing has been around since BC. As such, Seabiscuit is a deserving entry. Seabiscuit is generally regarded as one of the greatest horses of all-time — and the film does well to honor his legacy. Starring Jeff Bridges, Tobey Maguire and Elizabeth Banks, Seabiscuit pulls at the audiences’ heartstrings throughout the film. Watching the legendary horse come from the back of the pack to win the biggest race is enthralling — whether it’s your first or ninth time watching.
44. Rocky Balboa (2006)
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Starting in 1976 with the original Rocky and ending in 1990 with Rocky V, Sylvester Stallone dominated the box office with his electric — and sometimes desperate — portrayal of a gritty boxer. As the 2000s began, it seemed certain that Rocky had hung up his gloves and we had seen the last of the prizefighter. Alas, in 2006, 16 years removed from his last bout, Stallone returned to our screens with Rocky Balboa. Now in his 60s and long retired, Balboa is coaxed out of retirement for a fight with the world heavyweight champion. The film’s success proved that there was still a place for Rocky and eventually paved the way for the ongoing Creed spin-offs.
43. Remember the Titans (2000)
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Based on a true story, Remember The Titans was a staple within the childhood of any youth growing up in the 90s and early 2000s. The indomitable Denzel Washington portrays the protagonist Herman Boone and his high school football team in Virginia during a racially-charged time period. Though it is a Disney film, it explores deep-rooted themes of racism and social inequality. It’s served to provide excellent art (which it does). However, it also aimed to educate the younger audience about prior environments within the United States. This is a story of heartache, sadness, inspiration and triumph.
42. Miracle (2004)
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One of the most noteworthy Olympic sports moments in United States history occurred in 1980. An inexperienced USA team upset the heavily favored Soviet Union squad in what remains a monumental event. This tremendous story was then adapted to the silver screen featuring veteran actors Kurt Russell and Patricia Clarkson. Even if one isn’t overly patriotic, this film will have red, white, and blue blood coursing through your veins.
41. Above The Rim (1994)
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When raised in a toxic environment, people can either rise and rid themselves of potential heartache — or get swallowed up in a perilous underbelly of negativity. Above The Rim speaks to the story of an aspiring basketball player hoping for a shot at earning a college scholarship. Protagonist Kyle Watson (Duane Martin) must ward off advances from negative neighborhood influences — including drug dealer, Birdie (Tupac Shakur). The acting in this film is visceral, and the storyline between Watson, Birdie, and Shep (Leon) is fantastic. The commentary on socioeconomic troubles is further illuminated by the insatiable desire to succeed via the game of basketball.
40. Blue Chips (1994)
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This film attempts to uncover the evil underbelly of collegiate sports. Though head coach Pete Bell (Nick Nolte) prided himself on staying above board, the allure of winning ultimately compromised his morality in the form of paying top talent to play at his university. There were a plethora of cameos and starring roles in this film — which included Shaquille O’Neal, Penny Hardaway, Rick Pitino, Jim Boeheim, Bob Cousy, and Larry Bird (among others). It’s a fun basketball film and a nostalgic one for those fans appreciative of basketball in the 1980’s and 1990’s.
39. Cinderella Man (2005)
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There are a host of highly intriguing boxing biopics. Seemingly, the sport breeds captivating art in its highest form. Cinderella Man is no different — as director Ron Howard pieced together a film showcasing former World Heavyweight Champion James J. Braddock (played by Russell Crowe). Howard does a nice job of tapping into the period. It’s a gritty film, and one attempting to stay as authentic as possible. It offers impressive in-ring action as well as terrific complementary acting from Paul Giamatti and Renee Zellweger.
38. Any Given Sunday (1999)
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This film didn’t necessarily live up to the hype it had upon entering the theaters. With that said, it’s still a fascinating adaptation of the professional football world. Renowned director Oliver Stone employs a film with a booming score, a famous cast, and raw filmmaking. The shots of play on the field are highly entertaining. Though a rather lengthy movie, it weaves together on-field antics with off-field strife quite brilliantly. This depiction isn’t the average “rah-rah” sports film — but rather one looking to push the boundaries.
37. Happy Gilmore (1996)
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A staple during Adam Sandler’s ‘Golden Age,’ Happy Gilmore ranks as one of his very best. Possessing the driving ability of Tiger Woods and the attitude of a surly NHL enforcer, the enigmatic Gilmore breaks the typical country club vibe with his brash personality. Shooter McGavin (played by Christopher McDonald) is easily one of the most recognizable villains in all of sports comedies. The rivalry between the two is simply phenomenal.
36. Space Jam (1996)
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Every 90s child would have this teetering within their own top-10 list — and for good reason. This film is generational. It likely won’t appeal to anyone over the age of 30 — nor will it have the same impact on a kid under the age of 20. It’s a niche film in a sense, but one that exquisitely paired the fun of cartoons with the best basketball player in the history of the sport. Furthermore, the soundtrack for Space Jam is an all-time great. Who wouldn’t want to see Michael Jordan dunk the basketball over Seal’s rendition of “Fly Like An Eagle”?
35. Eight Men Out (1988)
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The 1919 World Series scandal — better known as the Black Sox Scandal — is one of the most infamous events in the history of professional sports. Directed by John Sayles, Eight Men Out showcases the 1919 Chicago White Sox and their willingness to cheat the sport. Buoyed by a strong cast, Eight Men Out is a must-watch for any baseball fan. Though, it should be said, if you aren’t a die-hard fan and prefer to watch a film like Field of Dreams or The Rookie — Eight Men Out could be a bit heavy.
34. I, Tonya (2017)
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We all know the Tonya Harding story. A month before the 1994 Winter Olympics, Harding’s ex-husband (Jeff Gillooly) devised a plot that ended in Nancy Kerrigan — Harding’s main rival — being bashed in the leg with a baton. I, Tonya provides a look at Harding’s life from a lens previously unseen. The great Margot Robbie earned a Best Actress nomination for her portrayal of Harding, and Allison Janney took home the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her performance portraying Harding’s mother. While some may never be able to look past Harding’s role in the attack, this film is a worthwhile watch — regardless of how you feel about Tonya Harding the person.
33. Hoosiers (1986)
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Many consider the Midwest to be the cradle of basketball within the United States. This period piece showcases a small Indiana high school attempting to beat the odds with its rag-tag bunch of basketball players. Using determination, resiliency, and heart, the likes of Jimmy Chitwood (Maris Valainis) and Norman Dale (Gene Hackman) lead the team to the 1954 Indiana State Championship. With intense layers woven in off the basketball court, this film is humanized rather than a tale strictly about the game of basketball.
32. The Endless Summer (1966)
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Despite being filmed in the 1960s, this film is aesthetically striking. Bruce Brown was the lifeblood behind this project. He followed two surfers as they traversed around the world in search of the tastiest waves. Perhaps unintentionally, Brown created a new way of documentary filmmaking. The Endless Summer gave off a relaxed vibe compared to the stuffy, mostly stoic documentaries of the time period. When further adapted with surf rock/ska music, it took on a life of its own. In the process, the film set the stage for further documentary-like films focused on extreme sports (surfing, skateboarding) to thrive into the 1980’s and 1990’s.
31. The Big Lebowski (1998)
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People may have a gripe over whether this is indeed a sports film. It technically does involve bowling. For that simple reason, it’s far too good of a film to leave off the list. The cast is littered with A-List actors across the board. The genius Coen Brothers penned a movie chock-full of humor, wittiness, unconventionality, and intrigue. “The Dude” (Jeff Bridges) is still an icon today. When looking up the best ‘cult classics’ in the history of cinema, The Big Lebowski appears high atop the list.
30. The Fighter (2010)
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Recounting his days growing up in a shabby pocket of Boston, Mark Wahlberg brilliantly portrayed a boxer beset by familial troubles. The narrative between Wahlberg’s character and his brother (played by Christian Bale) is highly emotional. Both grew up in the industry of boxing, and each has their own troubles to navigate through. Anything with Bale can only be described as magnetic. Duly, Amy Adams is terrific in a supporting role. This film is a heavy one — though the performances help it shine.
29. Creed (2015)
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A spawn of the historic Rocky series, Creed more than holds its own as an all-time great sports film. Michael B. Jordan stars as Adonis Creed — the son of Apollo Creed, who was Rocky’s rival in the first two Rocky movies. Jordan puts forth a brilliant performance alongside Tessa Thompson and Sylvester Stallone. An up-and-coming Creed is trained by the great Rocky Balboa, connecting generations of fans and reconnecting the fictitious boxing families. As always, the action in the film is great — better than ever. With Rocky in his corner, Creed comes into his own as a fighter and nearly reaches the mountaintop towards the end of the film — setting up a sequel (released in 2018) and perhaps a few more editions.
28. The Longest Yard (1974)
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This film has been made twice — first in 1974 and then again in 2005. However, the original film lands its name on this list for its overall creative approach. Burt Reynolds is the star of the show in both films. Though the idea of having a rag-tag bunch square off versus a better opponent isn’t new in Hollywood, the interesting twist in pitting prisoners against the guards in a football game certainly is inventive. Long-time actor Eddie Albert was fantastic as the ill-tempered Warden Hazen.
27. Friday Night Lights (2004)
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In the state of Texas, high school football reigns supreme. Millions of aspiring football players spend grueling hours on the gridiron with the hopes of winning a state championship. The same can be said for Permian High School in the tiny west Texas town of Odessa. Though only high school students, these players are looked upon as role models and even beacons of hope. Director Peter Berg does a fantastic job of analyzing the psyche of multiple star players. The pressure to succeed both individually and collectively for the town they represent is highly tangible in nature. This is unequivocally one of the best sports films released in the last 15 years.
26. The Karate Kid (1984)
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Mr. Miyagi will forever be a favorite in the sports genre. Portrayed by Pat Morita, Miyagi was instrumental in offering life lessons though karate (and even manual labor). The relationship between Miyagi and precocious teenager Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio) is one everyone can appreciate. It’s awesome to see LaRusso exorcise his demons by defeating the evil Cobra Kai dojo (along with villain sensei John Kreese). This feel-good film is apt for all ages and is one aging quite well. You’ll never wax your car by hand without thinking of this movie.
25. Ford v Ferrari (2019)
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A darling in 2019, Ford v Ferrari was an absolute joy to watch. This Best Picture-nominated film focuses on Carroll Shelby (Matt Damon) and British driver Ken Miles (Christian Bale) and their quest to usurp Ferrari as the No. 1 racing team in the world. The race at the center of the film is the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans race in France. As Shelby and Miles build a unique friendship, the duo faces mounting pressure from Ford higher-ups to follow their unreasonable orders. Even if you are not a car junkie, there is plenty in this film for you to enjoy. The acting is top-notch and the action is riveting.
24. Jerry Maguire (1996)
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Be honest…at least once in your life you’ve screamed the phrase “Show me the money!” Famed director Cameron Crowe showcases the inner workings of the sports world behind the scenes. Agent Jerry Maguire (Tom Cruise) jettisons the not-so-pleasant nature of the business for a more honest/truthful approach. This hurts his clientele considerably — though big-time receiver Rod Tidwell (Cuba Gooding Jr.) ultimately held his allegiance to Maguire. Gooding Jr. was fantastic in this film — and it comes as no surprise that he won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
23. Love & Basketball (2000)
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In this film, the love of basketball is only superseded by love itself. We’ve got a case of two individuals (Sanaa Lathan, Omar Epps) who’ve grown up alongside each other. Transitions between childhood crushes, annoying next-door neighbors, college lovers, and distant acquaintances all remarkably take place within this film. Basketball acts as a muse for both Lathan and Epps — though by the end of the film, basketball is but a mere element in what otherwise has been a lifelong attraction for one another. The chemistry between both is palpable — as is the potency of this strong script from Gina Prince-Bythewood.
22. Caddyshack (1980)
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Some don’t consider Caddyshack a sports film. We do — largely because the comedic genius of Rodney Dangerfield and Bill Murray carry this film from the friendly confines of an upscale country club. The laughs fly at the audience with reckless abandon. Murray is a show-stopper despite having less than 15 minutes of actual time on camera. From the annals of all golf films, this one ranks as the most entertaining.
21. Moneyball (2011)
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One of the best baseball movies from the last decade, Moneyball gave viewers an inside look at the Oakland Athletics’ sabermetric ways. At the time, not much was known about the practice. Fast-forward nearly 10 years and the game of baseball is all-in on sabermetrics. Both Brad Pitt and Jonah Hill delivered strong performances, making it easier to cheer for the unassuming franchise. While the actual baseball played in Moneyball is a little lacking, the film itself is insightful, smart, and a tremendous watch.
20. Foxcatcher (2014)
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There is no getting around it, watching Foxcatcher is exhausting. The film chronicles wrestling coach John du Pont and Olympic gold medalists Mark and David Schultz’s working relationship, and tragic end to their friendship. The cast is full of heavy-hitters who all delivered in their roles. Steve Carrell earned a Best Actor nomination for his role as John du Pont. Mark Ruffalo — as Dave Schultz — was nominated for Best Supporting Actor, and Bennett Miller received a Best Director nomination. Go into this film knowing you’re in for a doozy, buckle up, and enjoy the ride.
19. Chariots of Fire (1981)
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This true story tells of two 1924 Olympians embroiled in their own plights. We see the dichotomy of a disenfranchised Jewish runner from England (played by Ben Cross) and a Scottish God-fearing athlete (portrayed by Ian Charleston). Without the hubbub of juicing and foreign substances, these two Olympic athletes compete tooth and nail for eternal glory. Themes of religious persecution are evident — as are overarching themes of competitiveness and the desire to remain committed to one’s faith. This film won four Academy Awards in 1981 — including Best Screenplay and Best Picture.
18. The Natural (1984)
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The Natural started a long wave of baseball movies appearing on the silver screen throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Adapted from a novel 30 years prior, the great Robert Redford portrayed Roy Hobbs — a tortured soul who went from baseball prodigy to over-the-hill player in a matter of years. Through a series of unfortunate events, Hobbs is the poster child for what many toiling away in the minor leagues must deal with. Upon finally breaking into the Majors, we see that life isn’t always as easy as it’s perceived to be. Without question, The Natural is a giant within the baseball film genre.
17. When We Were Kings (1996)
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The “Rumble in the Jungle” will forever go down as one of the most captivating sports events in the history of the world. The bout between iconic Muhammad Ali and thumping puncher George Foreman was one for the ages. This documentary showcases the lead-up to the monumental fight. The energy emanating from this footage is seemingly tangible. Ali’s magnetic personality truly jumps off the screen. Director/producer Leon Gast did a fantastic job in collectively organizing the footage/interviews. It won an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature at the 1996 Oscars.
16. He Got Game (1998)
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Though He Got Game utilizes the game of basketball as the primary fulcrum, it also holds a very fragile father-son dynamic between Jake (Denzel Washington) and Jesus Shuttlesworth (former NBA player Ray Allen). Director Spike Lee attempted to make this film as authentic as possible. Shooting took place in Coney Island and the surrounding areas of Brooklyn. The score was weirdly fantastic — as was the storyline. Allen had no prior acting experience, though this was a positive. Allen was refreshing and unassuming as a star basketball player attempting to wade through an ocean’s worth of pressure. The climax scene involving father and son on the basketball court was both gut-wrenching and beautiful.
15. Million Dollar Baby (2004)
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This film resonates with many people based on the protagonist’s sheer quest for a better life. Hilary Swank’s portrayal as a boxing novice was nothing short of sensational. Her performance was fortified further by giants Morgan Freeman and Clint Eastwood. There are fun, breezy sports films… and then there’s Million Dollar Baby. It’s not for the faint of heart. There’s a good chance you’ll be emotionally drained upon watching it. With that said, it’s a brilliant piece of filmmaking — and one which aptly details the process in becoming a professional fighter.
14. White Men Can’t Jump (1992)
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This movie tightropes the line between being strictly a comedy as opposed to a film revolving around sports. However, the constant jabbing of wittiness is what makes this film so good. In a sense, playground games for both competition and money take many back to a nostalgic time. Both Wesley Snipes and Woody Harrelson crush it as trash-talking hustling hoopers. The city of Los Angeles is prominently shown as the backdrop for this cult classic. Rosie Perez is fantastic in a secondary role, and themes of both race and poverty are depicted in a humorously.
13. Rudy (1993)
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This film — perhaps more than any other — epitomizes what hard work can do. Based upon real-life Notre Dame football player Rudy Ruettiger, this film is a journey of tremendous perseverance. Played by Sean Astin, the gutsy underdog is steadfast in competing for the vaunted Notre Dame football team despite his less-than-ideal size. For any athlete dreaming of achieving a lifelong dream, this movie is wonderfully inspirational.
12. The Bad News Bears (1976)
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There’s always a spot in this world for the perceived ‘outsiders’ in any town or city. When collectively banding together in the face of adversity, anything is possible. This film set in the 1970s involves a drink-happy pool cleaner-turned-baseball manager (Walter Matthau) and a group of eclectic children. Though the Bad News Bears were a disaster at the start of their youth baseball season, the group hit their stride and ultimately made it to the Championship game. Matthau’s snarky behavior paired beautifully with the foul-mouthed children — which included established actors today in Jackie Earle Haley and Tatum O’Neal.
11. The Sandlot (1993)
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This film is a timeless classic. It’s as entertaining for children as it is for adults. The simplistic nature of playing a sport with a group of friends is something we all can appreciate — particularly during the summer months. This period piece has a group of nine friends romping around the neighborhood. While crass and crude, the story is heartfelt — and offers prominent themes of friendship. Additionally, the amount of cracks emanating from “The Great Hambino” (Patrick Renna) is comedic gold.
10. Ali (2001)
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Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee. This Muhammad Ali biopic doesn’t quite reach the heights of the best Rocky films, but Michael Mann’s Ali is still a very enjoyable watch. Mann does well to make his movie about far more than just Ali’s boxing exploits. It touches upon the politics and vast race issues that plagued the world at the time. Will Smith does as good of a job as possible trying to capture Ali’s spirit and essence. The outcomes of the boxing matches are not a secret, but Mann shoots them in a way that keeps viewers on their toes throughout. For his performance, Smith earned a Best Actor nomination.
9. Major League (1989)
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This is a ball-busting film of epic proportions. A colorful group of has-beens, minor leaguers, and charlatans have been compiled to fill out the roster for the fledgling Cleveland Indians franchise. The antagonistically wicked owner (Margaret Whitton) is hoping to move the team to Florida, and can only do so under the premise that the team is as bad as possible. This film has a whole cast of notable characters in it — including Charlie Sheen, Dennis Haysbert, Corbin Bernsen, Wesley Snipes, Tom Berenger, and Rene Russo. Haysbert steals the show with his unorthodox appreciation for voodoo. Duly, this movie will forever be tied together to Sheen’s moniker of Rick Vaughn and the song “Wild Thing” by The Troggs.
8. Slap Shot (1977)
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There are cult classics…and then there’s Slap Shot. No one will confuse this film with that of an Award-Winning piece of art. With that said, it possesses tomfoolery to the highest degree. Who doesn’t love watching tough, unskilled hockey players beat the crap out of each other? Leading man Paul Newman is buoyed by the hilarious trio of Hanson Brothers (no, not the singers from the 90s). Without question, this film elicits roars of laughter and lightheartedness that we all need from time to time.
7. A League of Their Own (1992)
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Though a fictionalized tale, A League of Their Own dramatizes the immense popularity of the short-lived All-American Girls Professional Baseball League. While the audience was introduced to a group of attractive, talented, witty, and sometimes wise-cracking group, the narrative speaks more to gender inequality — and the profound impact this league had from 1943-1954. While there are examples of humor, it also offers layers of determination and inner strength. Tom Hanks received plenty of praise for his role as troubled manager Jimmy Dugan.
6. The Wrestler (2008)
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Who would have imagined a movie about wrestling would have been considered one of the best films of the decade? Not many, but that’s exactly what The Wrestler was. Starring Mickey Rourke as Randy “The Ram” Robinson, The Wrestler follows The Ram’s diminishing career — as well as his declining health. Rourke’s performance was scintillating. Not only did he earn a Best Actor nomination, but Rourke reignited his fledgling career. Co-star Marisa Tomei also put forth a great effort and earned a Best Supporting Actress nomination. The film’s conclusion is incredibly powerful and emotional. For those of you longing for the Attitude Era of wrestling to return, this is the film for you.
5. Field of Dreams (1989)
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Whether watching a game or participating in a sport, a certain level of magic can present itself in the most awesome of forms. Field of Dreams beautifully combines childlike wonderment with magical realism. The result leaves the audience with a truly gripping film. Though he’s acted in a multitude of baseball-centric films, Kevin Costner’s claim to fame comes with this movie. We see paid tributes to baseball’s past as well as a showcasing of middle America in its most pure form. Lastly, the ever-elusive relationship between a jaded son and his father makes even the most masculine of men misty-eyed. Plus… who doesn’t love a film featuring the booming voice of James Earl Jones?
4. Hoop Dreams (1994)
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This is more than just a documentary. Hoop Dreams attacks the underbelly of society and offers commentary on socioeconomic problems, family discord, racial undertones, and the unabated passion for the game of basketball. Two high school freshmen are followed throughout the entirety of their high school career. Both Arthur Agee and William Gates resided in one of the most bleak and dangerous sections of West Chicago. The goal for each includes making it to the NBA. The unfiltered nature of this documentary can be hard to watch at times. With that said, it’s a story that needs to be told — particularly within the current context of the world today.
3. Rocky (1976)
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As soon as the film’s theme song plays, you’re instantly transported to the cold, gritty streets of Philadelphia. Standing in front of you is the biggest underdog of all underdogs. Coming from nothing, Rocky Balboa (portrayed by Sylvester Stallone) defeats the odds en route to competing for the heavyweight championship of the world. The storytelling in this film is akin to the Sistine Chapel — as it’s complex, captivating, compelling, and utterly phenomenal. For those scratching and clawing to make something of themselves, the fictionally inspiring Balboa is a wonderful role model. The raw shots of Philadelphia — plus the boisterous score — only add to the overall potency of this film. Simply put, it’s a timeless masterpiece.
2. Bull Durham (1988)
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In this film, we have the classic case of teacher vs. pupil — though each has a combative personality. Kevin Costner’s portrayal of Crash Davis as a humble minor league veteran pairs wonderfully with the brash, immature, hot-shot prospect Ebby LaLoosh (played by Tim Robbins). The dog days of minor league baseball in a small town are effectively captured by writer/director Ron Shelton. Quirky character development, unorthodox language, and the lightning-rod performance from Susan Sarandon give this film considerable depth and character. Duly, the enigmatic relationship between Robbins and Costner is highly natural.
1. Raging Bull (1980)
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The heartbreaking tale of boxer Jake LaMotta (played by Robert De Niro) takes the audience through a whirlwind of emotions. This isn’t a happy film, per se — though there are moments of humor and triumph. We see an embattled man tugged on either side by the alluring nature of the boxing business and his inner demons. LaMotta’s character isn’t a glamorous one. At his core, he’s a conflicted human trying desperately to find his place in this world. Director Martin Scorsese transformed filmmaking technique with his ability to showcase slow-motion scenes in the boxing ring. The style was further complemented by De Niro’s physical transformation from a ripped athlete to a doughy out-of-shape shell of himself. Without question, this film is a triumph in all aspects.
