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Seeing someone achieve their goal is a motivating experience and a reminder of what is possible. It’s gratifying to see somebody achieve their goals, especially when they work as hard as athletes do. There’s nothing quite like a great sports film: the personalities, the triumph over hardship, and the final victory.
The finest sports movies aren’t about their activity; they have universal tales that should appeal to everybody, regardless of whether they enjoy the sport. In this article, we have listed down the top 50 best sports movies of all time that you can watch at your convenience.
Space Jam: A New Legacy (2021)
Director: Malcolm D. Lee
Writer: Tony Rettenmaier, Juel Taylor, Keenan Coogler
Cast: Don Cheadle, LeBron James, Don Cheadle
IMDb Rating: 4.4/10
This movie showcases Lebron’s aspirations for his sons to follow his path as a basketball player. Will they agree? What happens when one of his sons gets kidnapped? It is an action-based sports film that leaves you anticipating the following scenes.
Ford vs Ferrari (2019)
Director: James Mangold
Writer: Jez Butterworth, Jason Keller
Cast: Christian Bale, Matt Damon, Caitriona Balfe
IMDb Rating: 9/10
Have you ever imagined that the owners of two of the most significant vehicle companies globally will be at loggerheads? It started from the refusal to sign a partnership contract deal. So, Ford’s owner hires Carol Shelby, who in turn partners with Ken Miles. The aim is to compete and win against Ferrari cars. We’re sure you can never anticipate the twists and turns that come with this movie.
Poms (2019)
Director: Zara Hayes
Writer: Shane Atkinson
Cast: Jacki Weaver, Diane Keaton, Pam Grier
IMDb Rating: 8/10
Although this is a sports movie, it is not wrong to classify it as a mix of dance and comedy. Thus, you are in for an exciting ride from the start to finish of this film. Follow the story of Martha, an introverted woman who moves to a sporty community. How long will she stay indoors, especially with an extroverted neighbor? You are in for many exciting moments in a film with teenagers, sports, and emotions, so it is on our list of best sports movies of all time 2022. This movie rightly defines the statement that ‘there is always more than what meets the eyes.
Cars (2006)
Director: John Lasseter
Writer: Ranft, Lasseter, Klubien
Cast: Bonnie Hunt, Owen Wilson, Paul Newman
IMDb Rating: 7.1/10
In this movie, cars have human traits. The star of the film is Lightning McQueen, a rookie in the racing game. He is desperate to win the race for different reasons but gets into an accident and causes havoc in a town. So, he is ordered to repair what he damaged and cannot leave until it is deemed perfect. At some point, he begins to warm up to the town and has mixed feelings about leaving.
Rush (2013)
Director: Ron Howard
Writer: Peter Morgan
Cast: Daniel Brühl, Chris Hemsworth, Olivia Wilde
IMDb Rating: 9/10
Two exceptional racers are always trying to outsmart themselves, and it does not seem like they are ending anytime soon. So, it is the story of James Hunt and Niki Lauda. They do not realize that the hostility makes them push further and bring out the best of themselves. This movie is an exceptionally thrilling action movie that you cannot afford not to miss. It might have been out for years, but it always leaves a lasting effect. Thus, it is one of the best sports movies of all time.
King Richard (2021)
Director: Reinaldo Marcus Green
Writer: Zach Baylin
Cast: Aunjanue Ellis, Will Smith, Saniyya Sidney
IMDb Rating: 6.7/10
Many people do not know that this movie is based on the true-life story of Venus and Serena William and is one of the top 10 sports movies of all time. It showcases the upbringing of these table tennis stars under the tutelage of their dad Richard Williams. Hence, the name King Richard. You get to see their background and how they grew to become the stars that they are now. Some of your other favorite celebrities, like Will Smith, also star in this movie.
She Ball (2020)
Director: Nick Cannon
Writer: Glenda L. Richardson
Cast: Rosa Acosta, K.D. Aubert
IMDb Rating: 2.5/10
A man is on a mission to save his community center, but it is not without encountering some hurdles and challenges. He teams up with a basketball player to win a game, and they are up against some tough competitors like politicians and gangs. Will they win the game and save the community center? It is a hilarious movie that leaves your ribs aching from much laughter. At a point, you will not want the film to end.
The Karate Kid (2010)
Director: Harald Zwart
Writer: Christopher Murphy
Cast: Jaden Smith, Jackie Chan
IMDb Rating: 6.2/10
Change of environment is never easy, and that is the case of Dre when his mother moved to a new city, and he had to change schools. He is subjected to bullying from a Kung Fu prodigy, and it seems like all hope is lost for him. So, what happens when he befriends a Kung Fu master? It is a combination of various events that leave your eyes glued to your screen.
Real Steel (2011)
Director: Shawn Levy
Writer: Richard Matheson
Cast: Hugh Jackman, Evangeline Lilly, Dakota Goyo
IMDb Rating: 7/10
It’s nearing the year when robots will take over human boxing. So, this movie is the story of Charlie, an ex-boxing champion. It shows how he aims to be a robot boxing champion. Throw in the mix of him having contact with his son, whom he had not associated with since he was born. However, his son is also a massive fan of robot boxing. Will these two work together to make Charlie’s dream come true?
Real Steel is produced by the same studio that produced the Transformers films, so the movie could attract the same crowd of viewers who enjoy computer-generated graphics, action, and a good laugh.
Creed (2015)
Director: Ryan Coogler
Writer: Coogler, Aaron Covington
Cast: Sylvester Stallone, Michael B. Jordan, Tessa Thompson
IMDb Rating: 9/10
If you are looking for dramatic actions in a sports movie, this is the movie to watch.
No one would expect anyone to take their late father’s friend as a mentor. However, that was the case with Adonis Johnson when his Father, Apollo Creed, died. His father was a heavyweight boxing champion.
Some people say that this is a true story. But it is important to note that all characters in this movie are fictional.
Unbroken (I) (2014)
Director: Angelina Jolie
Writer: Laura Hillenbrand
Cast: Domhnall Gleeson, Jack O’Connell, Garrett Hedlund
IMDb Rating: 8/10
It is from one foe to another US Olympic track record holder Louis Zamperini. First, he was almost a victim of a plane crash in the Second World War.
Following that, he had to spend 47 days in a raft with two fellow crew members trying to navigate and find their way. Then, unfortunately, he was taken as a war prisoner by the Japanese Navy. Without a doubt, this is one of the best sports movies of all time. Watch this film to see how he gets through everything.
She’s The Man (2006)
Director: Andy Fickman
Writer: Ewan Leslie, Kirsten Smith
and Karen McCullah
Cast: Laura Ramsey, Amanda Bynes, Channing Tatum
IMDb Rating: 6.3/10
Many plots come with this movie, and we are sure that you will enjoy all of them. It is a combination of sports, romance, and comedy. Yes, it is safe to say that it is an encompassing package. Viola has always been interested in football, but her dream was cut short when her team was dissolved. Now, there is no female team, and she isn’t allowed in the male section.
Instead of giving up, Viola disguises herself as her twin brother in a boarding school to make the male team.
The Main Event (2020)
Director: Jay Karas
Writer: Larry Postel
Cast: Tichina Arnold, Seth Carr, Adam Pally
IMDb Rating: 5/10
No one would take 11 years old seriously when they say they want to become a top WWE wrestler. But it was Leo’s dream, and it starts to form out after he finds a magical mask. However, remember that things are not always as they seem. Of course, you cannot expect that the mask comes without consequences. Watch this movie to follow the story of Leo and see how he navigates different events, including bullying.
Foxcatcher (2014)
Director: Bennett Miller
Writer: E. Max Frye, Dan Futterman
Cast: Mark Ruffalo, Steve Carell, Channing Tatum
IMDb Rating: 8.7/10
It is usually said that no man is an island. When in a team, every individual has to contribute for the team to succeed. So, imagine the excitement for Olympic wrestlers and estranged brothers, Mark and Dave, when John E du Pont asks them to join his team called Foxcatcher. There was no doubt that their lives were about to turn around as he is a wealthy sponsor. However, what happens when John’s self-destructive character comes to play?
I, Tonya (2017)
Director: Craig Gillespie
Writer: Steven Rogers
Cast: Sebastian Stan, Margot Robbie, Allison Janney
IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
Childhood was not easy for Tonya with her abusive stepmother. But that was what set her on the path to becoming one of the best figure skaters in the United States.
She was soaring high in her career and even became the first American woman to complete a triple axel during a competition in 1991. Yes, life was going fantastic, and she couldn’t be happier. Suddenly, her ex-husband comes into the picture in 1994, and he is on a mission. So, we can not list the best sports movies of all time in 2022 without involving this movie.
Creed II (2018)
Director: Steven Caple Jr.
Writer: Sylvester Stallone, Juel Taylor
Cast: Sylvester Stallone, Michael B. Jordan, Tessa Thompson
IMDb Rating: 7.1/10
We hear of people going after the killers of their fathers. But, Adonis Johnson decided to face his dad’s killer differently by going against his son in a boxing match.
Recall that Creed I shows Adonis under the tutelage of Rocky Balboa.
Creed II takes us through the life and stories of the new generation as a buildup to the boxing match show-off.
Sarpatta Parambarai (2021)
Director: Pa. Ranjith
Writer: Pa. Ranjith, Tamizh Prabha
Cast: Dushara Vijayan, Arya, Kalaiyarasan
IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
Kabilan, a young black man, has always loved the idea of boxing. Interestingly, his dad was also a wrestler, and he wanted to toll that path. However, his mum was against the decision as it comes with many complications. Now, his clan has been challenged to a do-or-die match. What will he do? Will he fight and lead them to victory, or will he heed the instructions of his mum? The movie comes with many suspense scenes, so brace yourself.
The Wrestler (2008)
Director: Darren Aronofsky
Writer: Robert Siegel
Cast: Marisa Tomei, Mickey Rourke, Evan Rachel Wood
IMDb Rating: 7.9/10
It is never easy to give up on something you love, and that is the case with Randy “The Ram” Robinson, the old and aging wrestler in this movie. This movie combines the confusion of life choices with other family matters to give you dramatic scenarios. It is captivating and thrilling that you lose track of time while watching it. Yes, it is an old movie, but you can find yourself watching it repeatedly without getting tired.
42 (2013)
Director: Brian Helgeland.
Writer: Brian Helgeland.
Cast: Harrison Ford, Chadwick Boseman, Nicole Beharie
IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
We love how this movie highlights racism, one of the major societal issues globally. Jackie Robinson is an African-American who became the first to play in a major baseball league. In his career, he has faced racism, but it is now on a higher level. He has never taken kindly to racism, so this movie shows how he handles the situation. Want to know what happens?
Southpaw (2015)
Director: Antoine Fuqua
Writer: Kurt Sutter
Cast: Jake Gyllenhaal, Forest Whitaker, Rachel McAdams
IMDb Rating: 8/10
A champion boxer loses his family, and it sends him into spiral depression. Of course, this also affected his career. When he encounters a former boxer, it gives him a gleam of hope, and he tries to get back on his feet. Now, with the help of his friend, he is trying to revive his career and also fighting for the custody of his daughter. It is a drama-packed movie that everyone should watch.
Warrior (2011)
Director: Gavin O’Connor
Writer: Cliff Dorfman, O’Connor, Anthony Tambakis
Cast: Tom Hardy and Joel Edgerton
IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
The action and drama that the martial arts content of this movie brings qualifies it to make our list of best sports movies of all time. It is a movie that takes different twists and turns on a family. For example, we see that two brothers will fight against themselves in a martial arts contest. To know how it would turn out, don’t forget to watch it!
The Replacements (2000)
Director: Howard Deutch
Writer: Kevil Blades
Cast: Gene Hackman, Keanu Reeves, Brooke Langton
IMDb Rating: 6.6/10
People say that it is only right and normal to have a plan B. So, when the NFL’s Washington Sentinels went on strike, the coach had to bring in replacements. Hence, the name. After all, people need to play to finish the season. It is a rib-cracking movie with scenes that make you laugh like you have no care in the world. So, we could not help but add it to our list as a top 10 sports movie of all time.
Draft Day (2014)
Director: Ivan Reitman
Writer: Rajiv Joseph, Scott Rothman
Cast: Dave Donaldson, Chris Berman, Patrick St. Esprit
IMDb Rating: 7/10
It is one thing to be the manager of a football club. But it is another ball game when you have to manage this club during a critical period in the football league where you have personal obstacles also to face. If you love watching dramatic movies, you are in for a ride with the draft day movie. We love the excellent execution of this movie and can assure you that watching it will not be a waste of time.
Bend It Like Beckham (2002)
Director: Gurinder Chadha
Writer: Gurinder Chadha
Cast: Keira Knightley, Parminder Nagra, Jonathan Rhys Meyers
IMDb Rating: 6.6/10
We love how this movie took the bull by the head and decides to address one of the stereotypes in our society. Who says a girl should not play professional soccer? This movie centers on two girls who want to be professional soccer players. Even with everyone trying to discourage them, including their parents, these girls are ready to bend it till they make it. Will they be successful? Find out when you watch this movie.
Big Fan (2009)
Director: Jean Kouremetis, Elan Bogarin
Writer: Robert Siegel
Cast: Kevin Corrigan, Patton Oswalt, Michael Rappaport
IMDb Rating: 8/10
Allow us to give you a heads up that this is a sports comedy, so you are sure to have an exciting experience. However, if you do not have the heart or mind for dark humor, you will struggle with this movie. Celebrities usually have lots of fans, and this movie is about the fans of a football player. A dream came through when they saw him in their neighborhood, but he was not receptive. This movie will leave you feeling different types of emotions.
High School Musical (2006)
Director: Kenny Ortega
Writer: Peter Barsocchini
Cast: Vanessa Hudgens, Zac Efron, Ashley Tisdale
IMDb Rating: 5.5/10
As the name implies, get ready to go through a journey of high school drama with this movie. It is an excellent way of relieving high school memories. It all starts with a famous high school athlete and an academically gifted girl who transferred to his school. From there, the rest they say is history. We love how the producers made all aspects of this movie captivating. So, it is one of our best sports movies of all time.
Friday Night Lights (2004)
Director: Peter Berg
Writer: David Aaron Cohen, Peter Berg
Cast: Derek Luke, Billy Bob Thornton, Jay Hernandez
IMDb Rating: 7.2/10
If you think it is easy being a coach, then try being Coach Eric. It is a movie that centers on a rural town in Texas and its local football team. After watching this movie, you will have a better view of being a coach and appreciate them. As a sports lover, you will enjoy watching this movie as it lets you feel like you’re in your natural element.
The Fighter (2010)
Director: David O. Russell
Writer: Eric Johnson, Paul Tamasy, Scott Silver
Cast: Christian Bale, Mark Wahlberg, Amy Adams
IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
No one likes to be in the shadow of another. But this is the case of Micky Ward, a struggling boxer who is in the shadow of his older half-brother, who is a more popular boxer. Now, he is trying to break out and make a name for himself with the help of his brother. But that one is a recovering cocaine addict. Is there any way out for him?
Moneyball (2011)
Director: Bennett Miller
Writer: Steven Zaillian, Aaron Sorkin
Cast: Jonah Hill, Brad Pitt, Philip Seymour Hoffman
IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
In this movie, a baseball general manager teams up with an economics graduate to work on a lean budget. The aim is to create a competitive team with computer methods. Of course, people think that it’s a crazy idea. But that is why we are recommending this movie. We were curious about the mad idea, and we loved the movie. Strap yourself as it will be an enjoyable journey!
Cinderella Man (2005)
Director: Ron Howard
Writer: Cliff Hollingsworth, Akiva Goldsman
Cast: Renée Zellweger, Russell Crowe, Paul Giamatti
IMDb Rating: 8/10
A boxer turned laborer is back to the game with the help of his former manager. He is gunning to become the heavyweight champion of the world. We could not help but add this movie to our list of the ten best sports movies of all time. With its infusion of drama, we would say that this is an incredible sports movie.
Invictus (2009)
Director: Clint Eastwood
Writer: Anthony Peckham
Cast: Morgan Freeman, Matt Damon
IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
If you are popular with South African history, you will know the apartheid story. A series of movies have been made out of this. This movie shows the aftermath of the apartheid and how President Nelson Mandela decides to support his people. To unite the South Africans, he supported a rugby team for the 1995 Rugby World Cup. Let’s see how it plays out in this movie.
The Rookie (2002)
Director: John Lee Hancock
Writer: Mike Rich
Cast: Dennis Quaid, Rachel Griffiths, Jay Hernandez, Brian Cox
IMDb Rating: 6.9/10
If you are looking to watch any of the best sports movies of all time, then you should watch the Rookie. It centers around baseball sports, and we see a Coach take his high school team to higher heights. To know how the coach made this movie, watch the movie on your Netflix app now.
Miracle (2004)
Director: Gavin O’Connor
Writer: Eric Guggenheim, Mike Rich
Cast: Patricia Clarkson, Kurt Russell
IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
First, you need to know that this is a true-life story of Herb Brooks. The Russian team has always had an excellent record, and some people termed them invincible. It was believed that no other team could beat them. However, Coach Herb Brooks leads the 1980 USA Olympic hockey team to victory over the Russian team. It is one sports drama that everyone must watch. Therefore, making it a top 10 sports movie of all time.
Never Back Down (2008)
Director: Jeff Wadlow
Writer: Chris Hauty
Cast: Amber Heard, Sean Faris, Cam Gigandet
IMDb Rating: 6.6/10
Jake realizes that there is more than meets the eyes at his new high school. Imagine a high school having an underground fight club. It is not a common sight. However, you are sure that it promises lots of fun and action. Jake has to survive in this school, and he later decides to take on martial arts training.
Invincible (2006)
Director: Ericson Core
Writer: Brad Gann
Cast: Greg Kinnear, Mark Wahlberg, Elizabeth Banks
IMDb Rating: 7.1/10
Vince is a struggling 30-year-old bartender whose life went downhill when he realized that his wife had filed for a divorce. His woes seem to be increasing, but he suddenly gets an offer that changes his life. He got the opportunity to be a part of the Philadelphia Eagles, a football team. Does he have what he takes to be on the team? Does his wife go ahead with the divorce?
We Are Marshall (2006)
Director: McG
Writer: Jamie Linden
Cast: Matthew Fox, Matthew McConaughey, Ian McShane
IMDb Rating: 7.1/10
When they lost the entire football team and coaches of Marshall University to a plane crash, it seemed to be the end of football in the school. But the new coach is poised at putting together another team.
Can they get past the after-effect of the loss?
Secretariat (2010)
Director: Randall Wallace
Writer: Mike Rich and Sheldon Turner
Cast: John Malkovich, Diane Lane, Dylan Walsh
IMDb Rating: 7.2/10
Penny is not about to let her father’s business die, so she takes the bull by the horn and goes into the male-dominated industry. Everyone expects that she will run down the business for someone who does not know about horse racing. But Penny is on her way to becoming a history maker. It is one of our top picks for best sports movies of all time 2022.
61* (2001)
Director: Billy Crystal
Writer: Hank Steinberg
Cast: Thomas Jane, Barry Pepper
IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
One is less popular while the other is the people’s favorite. Both of them are racing to break Babe Ruth’s record of 60 home runs in one season. So, who will be the champion? We commend the producers of this movie for the historical bits that they infused into the film.
The Blind Side (2009)
Director: John Lee Hancock
Writer: John Lee Hancock
Cast: Tim McGraw, Sandra Bullock, Quinton Aaron
IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
Follow the life journey of Michael, a homeless African-American who later becomes an all-American football player and first-round NFL draft pick.
Not everyone gets lucky in life, but favor came for Michael. This movie is a fine mix of drama and sports, giving you everything and emotions that you anticipate.
Coach Carter (2005)
Director: Thomas Carter
Writer: Mark Schwahn, John Gatins
Cast: Rob Brown, Samuel L. Jackson
IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
A high school football team has a new coach, and they are in for a charge.
Since the coach was a champion during his time in the school, he is out for the best. We see how the players had to adjust to their new coach in this movie. Is it possible that they rise to become champions?
Girlfight (2000)
Director: Karyn Kusama
Writer: Karyn Kusama
Cast: Jaime Tirelli, Michelle Rodriguez, Paul Calderón
IMDb Rating: 6.7/10
Diane takes an interest in boxing and goes behind her father’s back to get a coach. Moreover, she and her father have a strained relationship. We see how the dynamics of their relationship play out in this movie and how Diane goes on with her dream. The film shows that she became a pacesetter to female boxers.
Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story (2004)
Director: Rawson Marshall Thurber
Writer: Rawson Marshall Thurber
Cast: Ben Stiller, Vince Vaughn, Christine Taylor
IMDb Rating: 6.7/10
When a group of misfit friends comes together, they either cause chaos or make something exceptional. We see how a guy and his misfit friends enter into a competition in this movie. Many of the scenes in this movie are hilarious and might get you rolling on the ground from laughter. Indeed, it had to be on our list of best sports movies of all time.
Seabiscuit (2003)
Director: Gary Ross
Writer: Gary Ross
Cast: Jeff Bridges, Tobey Maguire, Chris Cooper
IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
No one likes to go for anything that can be a disadvantage. So, no one wanted to be paired with a racehorse that limps. Tom Smith is paired with this horse, and the movie is about how they both formed a bond. Soon the disadvantage became an advantage.
The Damned United (2009)
Director: Tom Hooper
Writer: Peter Morgan
Cast: Timothy Spall, Michael Sheen, Colm Meaney
IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
Imagine having only a 44-day reign as the coach of Leeds Football United. It is the story of Brian and a rivalry that dates back to 1968. Formerly successful manager Brian Clough’s harsh manner and an apparent dislike of the players’ nasty style of play ensure that there will be tension if he takes over England’s premier football team Leeds United. Check out the movie to know more.
Million Dollar Baby (2004)
Director: Clint Eastwood
Writer: Paul Haggis
Cast: Hilary Swank, Clint Eastwood, Morgan Freeman
IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
Everyone complains that Coach Frankie has a temper. So now, here comes Maggie, who wants to be a boxer and would let nothing stop her. She finally gets Coach Frankie to train her. Soon, she is on the right path. The movie gets to let you see parts of Coach Frankie that others may not see. This movie may have been out for years, but it is still one of the best sports movies of all time in 2022.
Like Mike (2002)
Director: John Schultz
Writer: Michael Elliot, Jordan Moffet
Cast: Morris Chestnut, Lil’ Bow Wow, Jonathan Lipnicki
IMDb Rating: 5.3/10
Imagine being stuck by lightning that gives you the superpowers to play baseball. Instead of imaging, watch this play out in this movie in the life of Calvin, an orphan. It started with him finding a shoe with the inscription ‘MJ.’ There are loads in store for you to explore with this movie.
Love & Basketball (2000)
Director: Gina Prince-Bythewood
Writer: Gina Prince-Bythewood
Cast: Alfre Woodard, Omar Epps, Sanaa Lathan
IMDb Rating: 7.2/10
The movie is exactly as the name implies. Two childhood friends had a dream to be the best basketball player. Now, love has come into the equation. Watch this movie to follow the twists and turns and see what becomes of them. We love that most scenarios in this movie are relatable.
Remember the Titans (2000)
Director: Boaz Yakin
Writer: Gregory Allen Howard
Cast: Will Patton, Denzel Washington, Donald Faison
IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
With a mix of sports and drama, this is the story of a new high school coach. It is the first time his team is playing a racially integrated team. Can they build teamwork? Will it make or mar their game? You can never tell unless you watch it. So, go to your Netflix app now!
Ali (2001)
Director: Michael Mann
Writer: Eric Roth, Michael Mann, Stephen J. Rivele
Cast: Jamie Foxx, Will Smith, Jon Voight
IMDb Rating: 6.8/10
We are sure that this is not the first time you hear about the boxer Muhammad Ali. But, how well do you know him? This movie serves as his biography, covering both his wins and controversies.
Bring It On (2000)
Director: Peyton Reed
Writer: Jessica Bendinger
Cast: Eliza Dushku, Kirsten Dunst, Jesse Bradford
IMDb Rating: 6/10
A high school cheerleading team believes that they have what it takes to win the championships. They have been preparing hard and are confident. But it comes as a rude awakening when they realize that their previous captain has been stealing routines from another school. Now, they have to come up with new routines for the championship. The time is ticking. It is a mix of sports and comedy and one of the best sports movies of all time.
