There have been countless lists that explore the best movies in football, basketball, and baseball. I can even throw in boxing movies because there have been so many. But what about all the other sports? I guess it’s pretty tough to have a “best of” list of bowling movies simply because there aren’t too many of them. However, I’ve compiled a list of ten movies that I’d consider to be part of that “other sports” category. And just so there’s no complaining by you people, I’m sticking to drama movies so someone doesn’t scream out “you missed Kingpin!” or “Caddyshack you moron.” Dramas it is.
Mystery Alaska
Fun little story here of a small town in Alaska where the entire town is powered by hockey. A former member of the town is then able to bring in the New York Rangers to play their local hockey team in a scrimmage. Great movie with lots of laughs. It’s heartfelt but also somewhat motivational. Solid flick.
Victory
The allies must face Zee Germans in a world class soccer match. Basically a bunch of prisoners are yanked together in a prison camp trying to escape from the war. The only way to do so is by banding together to form a soccer team to escape during halftime of the match. And they learn that teamwork and competition can be more important than even the Nazis. Pele’s bicycle kick in this movie really gives you the chills.
American Flyers
Great movie about a couple of brothers who learn to care about each other on the road training for a huge bicycle race called “Hell of the West.” There’s a slight twist when one of the brothers finds out the other one is sick, a hereditary illness that killed their father.
The Legend of Bagger Vance
I still don’t know who Bagger Vance was. Perhaps he was a ghost. That part of the story still almost seems a mystery. But his ability to bring back a fallen golfer to the center stage in an epic battle with two elite players is never to be forgotten. Plus it was directed by Robert Redford. You can’t go wrong.
Breaking Away
A bunch of locals have a chance to be “somebody’s” in a town race that features the town’s university (Indiana). This is probably one of the best sports movies of all time. Plus it features a young Dennis Quaid, Daniel Stern, and Jackie Haley.
Seabiscuit
Great portrayal of the true story of one of the greatest racing horses who ever lived.
Lords of Dogtown
This is the movie that pretty much explains the evolution of skateboarding. Set in the 70’s in California, it takes a great look at how freestyle skateboarding became mainstream with the advent of three amazing skaters who are initially headed by a surf board manufacturer. A great performance by Heath Ledger by the way.
Chariots of Fire
It’s the theme song man. The theme song!
Miracle
Lots of movie based on true stories in sports get messed up and aren’t portrayed well. This movie got it right.
Vision Quest
This is one of my favorite movies of all time. “My Name’s Louden. Louden Swain. I just turned 18. I wasn’t ready for it. But I made this deal with myself. This is the year I make my mark.” Lunatic Fringe! I know you’re out there!
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