A good sports film is a classic watch for many moviegoers, and one of the most popular types of story in Hollywood, known for its inspirational depiction of highs and lows in competitive sports. It is no surprise why, since sports stories lend themselves to a variety of styles, genres and mediums, making them some of the most versatile films in cinema. Though sports films are an easy, exciting watch, the best highlight inspirational stories of humanity’s ability to beat the odds, persevere, and overcome challenges in the efforts of achieving goals that are both physical and mental, with the help of a great sports movie coach.
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Stories like A League of Their Own, use the familiar story of an unexpected baseball team’s rise to fame, to point out gender-based challenges and issues that have historically existed in the sports world. Other films, such as Rocky, are tried-and-true underdog tales about dreaming big, and using grit and determination to achieve one’s goals. In the end, a great entry in this genre is generally a feel-good human story where a young athlete is tasked with overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds.
You are watching: 15 Best Sports Movies Of All Time, Ranked
15
Bill Durham (1988)
Directed by Ron Shelton
Image from “Bill Durham.”
Kevin Costner’s sports movie, Bill Durham, is a go-to sports comedy. Earning 97% on Rotten Tomatoes, the witty comedy is an enjoyable watch for those who are fans of the sport. Bill Durham hilariously plays with situational comedy through the love triangle between Crash Davis (Kevin Costner), “Nuke” (Tim Robbins), and Annie Savoy (Susan Sarandon). Apart from the romantic antics between its messy leads, the film is a love letter to baseball itself, as bitter veteran player, Crash, helps the haughty newbie, “Nuke,” to follow the Catcher’s lead and work with his team, instead of focusing on his own playing.
14
Foxcatcher (2014)
Directed by Bennett Miller
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Foxcatcher
R
Drama
Sport
Biography
8/10
7/10
Release Date
November 14, 2014
Foxcatcher is a biographical drama film based on the true story of brothers Mark and David Schultz, two Olympic wrestlers who become part of John E. duPont’s team Foxcatcher as they prepare for the 1988 Olympic games. The union seems promising initially, but a terrifying tragedy soon brings the dream crashing down.
Cast
Steve Carell, Channing Tatum, Mark Ruffalo
Runtime
134minutes
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For those familiar with the real-life inspiration behind Foxcatcher, it is no surprise that the film is a tense roller coaster of emotions that is compelling for audiences to watch. Steve Carrell delivers a spine-chilling performance as the dangerous millionaire, John Du Pont, whose control and manipulation resulted in the death of famous wrestler David Schultz (Mark Ruffalo), and the manipulation of his wrestling brother Mark Schultz (Channing Tatum). The film’s exploration of the mental struggles and dangers of being a professional athlete is fascinating to watch onscreen, earning it an 88% on Rotten Tomatoes.
13
Friday Night Lights (2004)
Directed by Peter Berg
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Friday Night Lights
PG-13
Drama
Release Date
October 8, 2004
Runtime
118 minutes
Writers
David Aaron Cohen
Friday Night Lights, released in 2004, follows the intense dedication of a small Texas town to its high school football team. After their star player is injured, coach Gary Gaines strives to inspire the team and community by emphasizing self-respect and honor amid emerging social tensions.
Cast
Billy Bob Thornton, Lucas Black, Garrett Hedlund, Derek Luke, Jay Hernandez, Lee Jackson, Lee Thompson Young, Tim McGraw, Grover Coulson, Connie Britton, Connie Cooper, Kasey Stevens, Ryanne Duzich, Amber Heard, Morgan Farris, Laine Kelly, Gavin Grazer, Turk Pipkin, Carey Windler, Tommy G. Kendrick, Brad Leland, Lillian Langford, Christian Kane, Buddy Hale, Ken Farmer
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Friday Night Lights is a familiar sports film with an underdog story. Though the film’s main plot revolves around the football team’s road to triumph with the help of coach Gary Gaines (Billy Bob Thorton), Friday Night Lights stands out because of its character development and important themes about individuality, kindness, and integrity. Though the lives of his players may be complicated, coach Gaines encourages each boy to hone in on their craft and work as a team, while attending to personal matters outside the game. This high-school football drama is understandably popular with audiences, earning a 95% Totten Tomatoes score.
12
Rudy (1993)
Directed by David Anspaugh
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Rudy
PG
Sport
Biography
Drama
Release Date
October 22, 1993
Runtime
114 minutes
Director
David Anspaugh
Rudy is a film about Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger, a young man determined to overcome significant obstacles in order to play football at the University of Notre Dame. Directed by David Anspaugh and starring Sean Astin, the film portrays Rudy’s relentless pursuit of his dream despite his smaller stature and academic challenges. The story emphasizes perseverance, heart, and the power of unwavering ambition.
Cast
Robert Prosky, Jon Favreau, Charles S. Dutton, Sean Astin, Ned Beatty
Main Genre
Biography
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One of the most famous examples of a sports underdog film is the 1993 hit, Rudy. Based on the incredible true story of Rudy Ruettiger, audiences feel a sense of hope when he is able to beat the odds and become a prolific player in his university’s football team, despite physical limitations. Astin’s performance as the real-life football hero is moving, making it easy for audiences to become invested in his struggles and character growth throughout the story. In the end, his triumph is inspirational, serving as a testament to determination and persistence in the world of sports.
11
Miracle (2004)
Directed by Gavin O’Conner
Image from “Miracle.”
Another traditional sports underdog story is Miracle, the patriotic Olympic love letter to the 1980 U.S. Hockey team. Beneath the surface-level competition between the U.S. team and the Soviet hockey team at the Olympics, Miracle is a story of America’s triumph in maintaining relations and keeping up during the Cold War, which was happening at the time in the story. Beyond its larger historical and symbolic meanings, the film’s leading coach, Herb Brooks (Kurt Russell), teaches his hot-headed players the importance of unification and strength in numbers, as the men learn how to function as a team. This feel-good biopic easily earns an 81% Rotten Tomatoes score.
10
Chariots Of Fire (1981)
Directed by Hugh Hudson
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Chariots of Fire
PG
Drama
History
Sport
Release Date
May 15, 1981
Runtime
125 Minutes
Director
Hugh Hudson
Chariots of Fire is a 1981 British historical drama directed by Hugh Hudson. The film follows two athletes, Eric Liddell and Harold Abrahams, as they train and compete in the 1924 Paris Olympics. It explores themes of faith, ambition, and perseverance, set against the backdrop of post-World War I Britain. The film stars Ben Cross and Ian Charleson, and its iconic score by Vangelis has become synonymous with the story’s inspirational narrative.
Cast
Nicholas Farrell, Nigel Havers, Ian Charleson, Ben Cross, Daniel Gerroll, Ian Holm
Main Genre
Drama
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Chariots of Fire is one of the most recognizable and iconic pop culture sports films, and can be recognized from its iconic theme alone. The film is a classic sports biopic about its two leading men, one Jewish and the other a Christian, using their differences to create a sense of tension and competition in the film. With stunning shots, a sweeping soundtrack, and period-accurate sets/ costumes, the film transports the viewer to the world of 1920s Paris. In the end, its message of respecting differences and embracing one’s teammates is what makes the film so enduring.
9
A League Of Their Own (1992)
Directed by Penny Marshall
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A League of Their Own
PG
Comedy
Drama
Sport
Runtime
128 minutes
Director
Penny Marshall
A League of Their Own is a comedy sports drama directed by Penny Marshall that was released in 1992. As professional Major League Baseball’s player count dwindles following World War II, the Chicago Cubs owner helps build a women’s league to save the sport. Now, hoping to make it big, the women of the new team must face off against fellow rival all-female teams and prejudice against their gender.
Cast
Tom Hanks, Geena Davis, Madonna, Lori Petty, Jon Lovitz, David Strathairn
Main Genre
Comedy
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This Penny Marshall classic is a great feel-good sports film that earned 82% on Rotten Tomatoes. Today, A League of Their Own is still a favorite watch, especially for those who are fans of baseball. The dramatic comedy features a cast of well-fleshed-out, diverse characters and team members. In fact, many of the female team members have different lifestyles and priorities, yet unite to play ball and prove a point about their place in the world of Major League Baseball. With a star-studded cast, including Geena Davis, Rosie O’Donnell and Madonna, its no wonder Marshall’s sports film is a success.
8
Challengers (2024)
Directed by Luca Guadanigno
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Challengers
R
Comedy
Drama
Romance
Sports
8/10
8.8/10
Release Date
April 26, 2024
Challengers follows tennis player-turned-coach Tashi as she transforms her husband Art into a Grand Slam champion. To revitalize his career, she enters him in a lower-tier tournament where he confronts his past, facing both his former best friend and Tashi’s ex-boyfriend.
Cast
Zendaya, Mike Faist, Josh O’Connor, Darnell Appling, Bryan Doo, Shane T Harris, Nada Despotovich, Joan Mcshane, Chris Fowler, Mary Joe Fernández, A.J. Lister, Connor Aulson, Doria Bramante, Christine Dye, James Sylva, Kenneth A. Osherow, Kevin Collins, Burgess Byrd, Jason Tong, Hudson Rivera, Noah Eisenberg, Emma Davis, Naheem Garcia, Alex Bancila, Jake Jensen, Konrad Ryba, Hailey Gates, Andrew Rogers, Beverly Kristenson Helton, Brad Gilbert, Sam Xu, Caleb Schneider
Runtime
131 Minutes
Main Genre
Drama
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One of cinema’s latest sports hits is Luca Guadanigno’s film, Challengers. Despite being less than a year old, the film has already earned 52 wins, proving Guadanigno’s bold sports drama is popular with fans. Much of this can be attributed to the film’s ability to immerse viewers in the tense and electrifying world of the story, with fast-paced shots, a cast of A-list actors, and a unique soundtrack with its own sound that is hard to mistake. The thrilling final match is intense, as it is implied both men recognize the talent in the other, particularly through the scene where Art and Patrick hug.
7
Hoosiers (1986)
Directed by David Anspaugh
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Hoosiers
PG
Drama
Family
Sport
Release Date
November 14, 1986
Runtime
114 minutes
Director
David Anspaugh
Hoosiers is a sports drama film directed by David Anspaugh, starring Gene Hackman as a head coach who takes on the challenge of leading a small-town Indiana high school basketball team to the state championship. Set in the 1950s, the film follows the personal and professional struggles of the coach and his team, showcasing themes of redemption and perseverance.
Cast
Gene Hackman, Barbara Hershey, Dennis Hopper, Sheb Wooley, Fern Persons, Chelcie Ross
Main Genre
Drama
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Another beloved underdog story is Hoosiers, the1986 true story basketball film that is loved by audiences with a 91% on Rotten Tomatoes. This film contains all the elements of a high school sports epic, but adds to something unique in how its Coach, Norman Dale (Gene Hackman), is fundamentally flawed, dealing with his own sets of issues. In this way, Dale helps both himself and his teammates to better themselves. Though Dale and his team may have struggled with making poor decisions in the past, they learn to forgive themselves and each other both on the court and off.
6
Remember The Titans (2000)
Directed by Boaz Yakin
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Remember The Titans
PG
Sport
Biography
Drama
10/10
Release Date
September 29, 2000
Remember The Titans is a 2000 sports drama directed by Boaz Yakin and starring Denzel Washington. The film is based on the true story of a newly integrated high school football team in Virginia. Under the leadership of coach Herman Boone, the team navigates racial tensions and strives for success on and off the field.
Cast
Ryan Hurst, Will Patton, Wood Harris, Denzel Washington, Donald Faison
Runtime
113 minutes
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In one of Denzel Washington’s best sports dramas, he plays real-life coach Herman Boone, in the 2000 sports hit, Remember the Titans. This famous film is one of the most inspirational and philosophical, discussing how race and social norms affect the interactions in team sports. Beyond taking his team to the finals, Boone manages to break down some of their former racial prejudices, teaching them that without acceptance, society cannot function in harmony, just like a football team. Because of its powerful message, it is no surprise the film has earned 8 wins and 17 award nominations.
5
Million Dollar Baby (2004)
Directed by Clint Eastwood
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Million Dollar Baby
PG-13
Drama
Sport
8/10
Release Date
December 15, 2004
Million Dollar Baby is an Oscar-winning sports drama directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Eastwood, Hilary Swank, and Morgan Freeman. It follows Maggie Fitzgerald, a young female boxer, as she trains under the guidance of her trainer, Frankie Dunn, and tries to make it to the top.
Cast
Hilary Swank, Mike Colter, Jay Baruchel, Clint Eastwood, Morgan Freeman
Runtime
132 minutes
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This Oscar-award winning wrestling drama is a gritty story about the mental challenges that come with beating the odds to become one of the best. Both leads, although different in personality and demeanor (Maggie (Hilary Swank), the bright-eyed trainee, and Frankie, played by Clint Eastwood, the grumpy and rough trainer), manage to work together to achieve Maggie’s dream of becoming a professional boxer, despite her humble background. Along the way, intense coloring, fast-paced shots, and creative cinematography are used to create Maggie’s entrance into the high-stress world of wrestling.
4
Creed (2015)
Directed by Ryan Coogler
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Creed
PG-13
Drama
Documentary
8/10
9.3/10
Release Date
November 25, 2015
Creed is a spin-off/continuation of the boxing drama franchise Rocky. Set years after the original Rocky series, Creed follows Adonis Johnson, the estranged son of Apollo Creed, on a journey to Philadelphia to find his father’s friend/rival, Rocky Balboa. Now training to follow in his father’s footsteps, Creed fights to become the best boxer in the world.
Cast
Michael B. Jordan, Sylvester Stallone, Wood Harris, Graham McTavish, Tessa Thompson, Phylicia Rashad
Runtime
2h 13m
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Creed certainly lives up to the expectations of Rocky, demonstrated by its 95% score on Rotten Tomatoes and 45 award wins. The sequel story plays again on the familiar underdog story, but this time, with the added issues of race and intersectionality as challenges for its lead, Adonis Creed (Michael B. Jordon). By introducing beloved former characters and adding a fresh new set of stories and side plots to keep the franchise fresh, the film is a standalone hit. Adonis’s story of moving past his father’s death and building his own legacy is truly inspirational to watch as a viewer and fan.
3
Moneyball (2011)
Directed by Bennett Miller
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Moneyball
PG-13
Sport
Drama
Biography
8/10
7.5/10
Release Date
September 23, 2011
Based on the book by Michael Lewis, Moneyball chronicles the Oakland A’s general manager Billy Beane as he attempts to assemble a baseball team on a lean budget – by employing computer-generated analysis to acquire new players. Billy partners with a young and hungry economist, played by Jonah Hill, as they develop an unconventional team of players that will change the game of Baseball forever.
Cast
Brad Pitt, Jonah Hill, Robin Wright, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Chris Pratt2
Runtime
133 minutes
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This non-traditional sports drama is a clever and complicated watch, detailing how the business and tech world interact with professional sports. Apart from its unique premise, the incredible true story of Moneyball asks larger philosophical questions about humanity’s natural abilities, and whether statistics and technology can predict athletes’ performances. This is a compelling watch that dives into the psychology behind baseball, adding something fresh for viewers who are tired of the same traditional stories. However, the team still manages to achieve a satisfying movie victory by its end. The film has earned a staggering 29 award wins.
2
Raging Bull (1980)
Directed by Martin Scorsese
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Raging Bull
R
Biography
Sport
Drama
7/10
9.5/10
Release Date
December 19, 1980
Directed by Martin Scorsese, Raging Bull is a 1980 sports drama based on the rise and fall of real-life boxer Jake LaMotta as he strives for success while dealing with his inner demons and his violent temper. Robert De Niro stars as the middleweight champion, with Joe Pesci, Cathy Moriarty, and Nicholas Colasanto in supporting roles.
Cast
Robert De Niro, Theresa Saldana, Nicholas Colasanto, Joe Pesci, Cathy Moriarty
Runtime
129 minutes
Main Genre
Biography
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One of the best sports films is Raging Bull, earning an impressive 8.1/10 on IMDB and 24 award wins. This boxing biopic is as much of a sports film as it is a human interest story, masterfully portraying the unstable mental state of its leading character, Jake LaMotta (Robert DeNiro), a rising boxer plagued with intense anger issues. To show his quick rise to fame and subsequent fall, Raging Bull uses black and white coloring, stark shadows, and fast-paced shots to create a rising sense of tension and turmoil which Jack experiences. In the end, the film serves as a warning about losing control and letting your ego blind oneself.
1
Rocky (1976)
Directed by John G. Avildsen
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Rocky
PG
Drama
Sport
9/10
Release Date
November 21, 1976
Rocky tells the story of Rocky Balboa, an underdog boxer from Philadelphia who gets an unexpected shot at the world heavyweight title. The film explores Rocky’s personal and professional struggles, his romance with Adrian Pennino, and his journey toward self-respect and determination.
Cast
Sylvester Stallone, Talia Shire, Burt Young, Carl Weathers, Burgess Meredith, Thayer David
Runtime
120 Minutes
Main Genre
Drama
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Sylvester Stallone’s boxing film, Rocky, speaks for itself, earning it a high Rotten Tomatoes score of 93% and three Academy Awards. It’s no wonder why, since Stallone’s quintessential underdog story is one of the most inspirational and well crafted. Rocky is an easy character to root for, as a man with a tough exterior but a soft streak towards family and loved ones. With a strong supporting cast and emotional soundtrack, Rocky’s hard-earned rise to the top is cathartic for audiences to witness at the end. The film’s success lent itself to a series of Rocky movies and an expansion of the franchise.
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