Buzz
We’ve all been there: your overly eager friend, coworker, or sibling is going on and on about a film they insist you must see right away. You’re not interested, especially considering their last suggestion was a total letdown. And this time, it’s about what? Figure Skating?
So, you put it off, delay it further, and then finally, you cave in and watch it. And, to your surprise, Margot Robbie absolutely nails her role as a disgraced figure skater.
I know next to nothing about figure skating—my knowledge could fit on the back of a stamp… five times, with space left over for the entire script of I, Tonya. But it made me realize, I can’t be the only one who’s passed up a great movie just because of the sport it features. So here’s a list of 10 sports films that’ll win you over, even if sports aren’t your thing.
Disclaimer: I’m sure I’ve missed out on some legendary films and someone’s favorite, but I made an effort to include a diverse mix of sports and genres, even if it meant leaving out some popular picks (Sorry, Rocky).
10. Slap Shot
I don't know much about hockey, just a little more than figure skating—mainly because they carry large sticks, right? However, I've been watching Paul Newman's films for as long as I can remember, and I’ve always enjoyed them. So, it was no surprise that he delivered his usual charming and humorous performance in this film.
The storyline of Slap Shot (1977) revolves around a struggling town and its failing ice hockey team, who resort to violence on the ice in an attempt to increase ticket sales and popularity. A special mention goes to the brutal Hanson brothers, who provide much of the humor (and discomfort) as they crash, punch, and beat up their opponents. IMDb trivia mentions that this was one of Newman’s favorite films, and that’s evident in his performance. He must have had a great time filming it, especially since many scenes, especially those with the Hanson brothers, were unscripted and improvised.
9. Million Dollar Baby
Most of the films on this list, I’ve watched multiple times. Not this one, though. Let me clarify, this isn’t because it isn’t a great movie—it’s fantastic, deserving of the Oscar it won, and further proof that Hilary Swank is a remarkable actress who can more than hold her own against the likes of Morgan Freeman and Clint Eastwood!
In the 2004 film, an aging boxing trainer hesitantly agrees to coach a female boxer, Maggie Fitzgerald. Despite overwhelming odds, Maggie's relentless determination and spirit help her conquer each challenge she faces.
And that’s where I’ll stop discussing the plot because I recall exactly why I’ve never watched this film a second time. The injustice portrayed will forever be imprinted in the minds of those who’ve seen it; it’s heart-wrenching. Seriously, no spoilers here, but make sure you have tissues nearby and maybe treat yourself to some ice cream—lots and lots of ice cream.
8. The Wrestler
If you're looking for the flashy, over-the-top world of WWE (or WWF for those of us who grew up with it), steer clear of this film. The Wrestler (2008) tells the story of a fading wrestler at the end of his career, touring small venues and trying to get by. But not in fancy limousines or helicopters—he’s traveling with all his belongings crammed into a beat-up car that’s as worn out as he is. It’s a gritty narrative about a man who’s too old to adapt to life outside the ring, struggling with low-paying jobs and a fractured family.
Mickey Rourke delivers a surprisingly authentic performance as Randy the Ram, and many have compared his own career to that of his character. However, for me, the real standout is Marisa Tomei. Channeling my inner Costanza here, she is absolutely wonderful in her understated portrayal of a worldly, self-aware stripper who’s past her prime. Her performance is one of the best things about this film.
7. The Blind Side
I considered picking Any Given Sunday for my American football selection, but to enjoy that, you’ll probably need at least a passing interest in the sport. With The Blind Side (2009), all you need is to be human.
This moving true story about Michael Oher is both heartwarming and full of moments that will make you laugh and cry. Sure, there’s some American football involved, but if that’s not your thing, don’t worry. I’m aware that some parts of the story might have been stretched or romanticized, but I still think it’s a wonderful tale.
6. Seabiscuit
Like many people in the UK, I only engage with horse racing once a year during the Grand National. I’m sorry to all the people in the betting shops—I’ll be the one causing a delay, poorly filling out my betting slip. So, why would a film about horse racing, running over two hours, hold my interest?
Well, here are three reasons: Tobey Maguire, Jeff Bridges, and Chris Cooper. Seabiscuit (2003) delivers perfect performances and tells a story about loss, redemption, and overcoming adversity. This is what makes its two-hour-and-twenty-minute runtime feel like nothing. By the way, I believe this is one of Chris Cooper’s best performances, just second to his role as July Johnson in Lonesome Dove.
5. Purely Belter
This is one of two football films that made it onto my list. And, much like with I, Tonya, it’s another instance of me being proved wrong.
One night, a friend who was a supporter of Sunderland convinced me to watch this 2000 film. I couldn’t understand why a Sunderland fan would be interested in a story about two kids struggling to get tickets for their beloved Newcastle United. Not long into the movie, it all clicked. It’s genuinely funny, lovingly crafted, and with great performances from the young actors—making it a feel-good movie you won’t regret watching.
4. The Boxer
This film is more about the Troubles than boxing. Daniel Day-Lewis plays a recently freed prisoner who turns his back on his violent past to open a non-sectarian boxing gym in a divided Belfast.
Revisiting this 1997 film, I was reminded of the stellar cast, including Daniel Day-Lewis, Ken Stott, Brian Cox, and Emily Watson, who has consistently proven her ability to take on tough, complex roles throughout her career.
Boxing icon Barry McGuigan was on set to train Daniel Day-Lewis to look and move like a boxer. Day-Lewis threw himself into the role and took the training so seriously that McGuigan later remarked that he could have fought professionally.
3. The Descent
Alright, alright, I know what you’re thinking! And yes, maybe we stretched it with the last one. But I really wanted to bring in an obscure sport, and I also wanted to sneak in a horror movie—after covering so many sports and genres. So, let’s all agree that caving, spelunking, or potholing counts as a sport for this list. Or at least something closely related to one!
In this 2006 thriller, a group of friends embarks on a caving expedition. Unfortunately, things take a dark turn from the outset as betrayals emerge, accidents occur, and the group quickly realizes they may not be alone in the darkness.
I’m not sure about you, but I have a serious aversion to being trapped in small, dark spaces with potentially dangerous creatures. I have no idea why I even watched this in the first place, nor why it's on this list. But, every now and then, I do enjoy a good scare, and this one definitely delivers on that front.
I’ve heard that the U.S. and UK versions of this movie have different endings; however, since I’m not in a rush to rewatch it, could someone kindly fill me in on the differences in the comments?
2. The Big Lebowski
I get it, I get it—calling this a sports film is a bit of a stretch. But hey, it does feature bowling, and there’s a bowling ball on the cover…so I guess that counts? To be completely honest, I haven’t seen this movie in years, and I’ve only watched it once. So, I’m hoping it’s just as good as I remember. If not, feel free to check out Looking for Eric instead.
The plot is a bit tricky to describe, but essentially, Jeff 'The Dude' Lebowski (Jeff Bridges, once again making an appearance) is mistaken for a wealthy man who wants compensation for a rug that was ruined, all while trying to find his namesake’s missing wife. As one reviewer puts it, The Big Lebowski (1998) is a 'stoner crime comedy about bowling, Vietnam, and the critical importance of having that one interior-design element that ties the whole room together.'
From what I recall, it’s just as bizarre as it sounds, and one thing that sticks with me is the unforgettable John Turturro, who steals the show with his foul-mouthed antics in the bowling alley.
1. Looking for Eric
I absolutely adore this film, and I truly don’t understand why it hasn’t reached a wider audience. No matter your sport of choice, your football team allegiance, or where you’re from in the world, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. While some might be put off by the main character’s obsessive love for Manchester United, the movie is much less about football and far more about love, friendship, poverty, class, loneliness, family, and mental health... Trust me, you can’t just label this as a sports film.
Naturally, set in a working-class community in Manchester, the 2009 film has drawn comparisons to other northern dramas like Brassed Off and The Full Monty. However, Looking for Eric stands on its own (yes, I know, I’m sorry) and isn’t afraid to tackle themes that the previous films might have avoided.
Steve Evets nails the lead role without a single misstep, delivering some absolutely brilliant lines, including: 'I’m up to here with your philosophy. I’m still getting over the f**king seagulls!'
