Fighting, hoping, winning… inspirational sports movies are not just about the game–they’re about the spirit and the will against all odds. They show you the grit that real athletes are made of; heroism, the costs of victory or how one can push their mind and body to levels others could only dream of.
So, we’ve picked the 12 best sports movies of all time, some fictional and some based on true stories. Are you ready?
Some people may argue that these stories are predictable. It’s true! We know that if there’s a movie it needs to have a resolution and in this case that resolution is success. The real magic of these inspirational sports movies is watching how it’s achieved.
Most — if not all — of us can relate to feeling like underdogs. Be in school, work, or even family life there’ve been plenty of moments where we’ve felt like the world was against us.
These best sports movies of all time will tap into that vulnerable place inside of us so perfectly which makes them must watches.
Related: 3 Of The Most Important Life Lessons You Can Learn From Sports
12 Best Sports Movies Of All Time
1. Rocky (1976)
How could we start this list off without mentioning one of the greatest underdog stories of all time? In Rocky we follow a fighter from Philadelphia as he attempts to take down the heavyweight champion of the world.
Boxing is definitely at the forefront here but ultimately this film is about resilience and proving yourself when everyone says it’s impossible.
2. Remember The Titans (2000)
This film takes place during 1970s Virginia which was well known for its racial tension. The backdrop creates set up for an even more powerful storyline as we watch our hero lead his newly integrated high school football team into unity all while they chase their shot at winning state together.
3. Creed (2015)
Sylvester Stallone returns to his iconic role as Rocky Balboa as we now follow him through Adonis Creed’s journey to become just like his father Apollo Creed, well except for getting killed in exhibition match against Ivan Drago.
The film mixes old school grit with modern sensibility to create a captivating story about identity, legacy, and greatness.
4. Million Dollar Baby (2004)
A grumpy old man is forced to coach and train an amateur boxer named Maggie. Eventually, he warms up to her as she defies all odds, showing mad talent and determination. The two quickly become close friends as they reach the top of their careers.
5. Hustle (2022)
Hustle is one of the most inspiring sports movies on Netflix in 2022, directed by Jeremiah Zagar from a screenplay by Taylor Materne and Will Fetters.
It is co-produced by Adam Sandler, who also plays a down-on-his-luck NBA scout who discovers a raw but talented basketball player in Spain (Juancho Hernangómez) and tries to prepare him for the NBA draft.
Best Sports Movies Based On True Stories
6. Ali (2002)
Will Smith delivers a performance of a lifetime here by playing boxing legend Muhammad Ali.
This biopic was directed by Michael Mann who gave audiences an inside look at Ali’s life both in and outside the ring. By the end you’ll see exactly why he was one of those people who could never be defeated.
7. The Fighter (2010)
The Fighter is inspired by the true story of Micky Ward. He’s a boxer trying his hardest to come out from behind his brother’s shadow so he can make a name for himself in the ring.
This movie does an amazing job at painting an emotional picture of what it would be like to go through being beat up over and over again until finally tasting victory.
8. The Blind Side (2009)
Michael Oher should be renamed Michael Overcome because after being adopted by Leigh Anne Tuohy and her family he faced every adversity life had to offer right in its mouth.
When it was all said and done he walked away as one of football’s biggest stars after overcoming every bit of resistance life threw his way. This movie tugs at your heart strings worse than having your wisdom teeth pulled.
9. Raging Bull (1980)
If it wasn’t for Martin Scorsese then most people would probably think Jake LaMotta comes from an Italian family in New Jersey instead of being one of boxing’s greatest legends.
This movie did such an amazing job depicting what really drives these athletes that even people who hate violence walked away saying “wow that was really good”.
10. Coach Carter (2005)
Samuel L Jackson does his best Sam impression while playing Coach Carter who is also coaching high school basketball players instead of fighting off Marvel villains for two hours straight.
The story is a beautiful reminder of how discipline and education can make great out of the kids who always get counted out.
11. Ford Vs Ferrari (2019)
This high-speed film tracks the real-life competition between car designer Caroll Shelby and driver Ken Miles as they challenge Ferrari at the Le Mans race in 1966. A wild ride oozing with speed, passion, and determination.
12. Air (2023)
Ben Affleck and Matt Damon star in this modern sports drama where they play different athletes but deal with the exact same problems.
We’ve seen them up on our screens countless times together, but Air brings something fresh to the table as it provides fresh performances and a relatable storyline about chasing success.
Related: Why Your Kids Should Play Sports? 4 Reasons
Sports is more about winners and losers—it’s about growth, hard work, and those moments that shape us. Get your popcorn ready, sit down with an open mind because this is our list of most inspirational sports movies ever made.
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