Can You Name These Iconic Sports Movies?
- by H_Kettle
- – on
- in Movies and TV
We all love going to the movies from time to time, even if sometimes, there isn't even anything on that we're particularly desperate to see. It makes for a fun day or night out, you get to have a few laughs or shed a few tears, and there's popcorn involved. At the very least, the popcorn should be considered a massive bonus.
All of those emotions and many more can be enjoyed and experienced with a sports movie, which is what we're here to talk about today. There are all different kinds of fun big screen blockbusters to enjoy in this genre, from drama to comedy and everything in between. As such we can already tell that some of the quiz answers won't qualify as sports movies in the eyes of some fans, but we'll politely ask you to just roll with the punches.
Some of the movies we're about to run through are cult classics for weird reasons, whereas others are just outright fantastic - and we want to see how many of them you can recognise. If you're a true connoisseur in this department then you could wind up easily getting 100%, but we still think that's going to be unlikely.
There are some real gems in here that we'd happily go back to the cinema and watch time after time, or alternatively, just watch over and over again on DVD. Whatever the case may be, there's a lot to reminisce about as you embark on this particular quiz.
Information comes from IMDB.
Which sports movie is this?
Have you ever sat down and watched a game of golf from start to finish, or perhaps even a whole tournament? If you have, then we applaud you. If you haven't, then we can only assume that one of your fondest recollections of the sport comes from this movie. It's unconventional, it's weird and at times it's a bit too ridiculous, but that's why we all love it so much. Adam Sandler is able to thrive in the lead role, which as we all know, isn't a sentence that you can necessarily say all the time. Would we want a sequel? Probably not, because it doesn't need one.
Which sports movie is this?
It ain't about how hard you hit, it's about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward. Words to live by, and words that were uttered in this edition of the Rocky franchise. Sylvester Stallone will always be known as the gritty boxing legend that won the hearts of millions around the world, but it can often be hard to keep track of just how many sequels he's made. This one, in particular, is our personal favourite - as we get to relive the comeback all over again. You also get a chance to see some actual character development, too.
Which sports movie is this?
Sometimes, you need some tough love in order to get yourself (and your team) over the finish line. That's what we learn in this movie, which features Samuel L. Jackson as the no-nonsense lead. It is based on a true story which is always a good thing in our book, with Channing Tatum featuring as one of the ensemble cast. You might find yourself disagreeing with some of the methods used at times, but that probably depends on whether or not you've been involved in the sports world before. Even more so, it probably depends on whether you've ever coached.
Which sports movie is this?
Real life stories are often some of the best on the big screen, and that's the case once again here. It's an inspirational journey that we get taken on, as a man is able to rise up from impoverished beginnings to the very top of his profession. How did he do it, you ask? Well, you'd have to watch the movie in order to find out, but we will say that he had a pretty good core of people by this side. It was an absolute hit at the box office, and once you give it a watch, you'll understand why.
Which sports movie is this?
One of the greatest combat sports stars that ever lived? That goes without saying. This movie speaks to the fans of this incredible individual, and beyond that, also sends an important message about what it means to believe in yourself. Will Smith's portrayal, in our mind, is one of the best aspects of the movie, and we certainly think the story is done justice. There could be disagreements on that front and we can understand why, but there are certain ways you need to analyse a movie like this. From our perspective, it does everything that it says on the tin.
Which sports movie is this?
One of the greatest movies of all time, and we aren't just talking about sports. It's just so unbelievably iconic in every way imaginable, and if you can find a better way to describe it than that, then we applaud you. From the teacher to the student you get a real sense that everyone involved in making this movie knew they were creating something that was going to have an outstanding legacy. All these years later fans will continue to quote the movie in day to day life, with some even continuing to claim that the perceived villain was actually the hero. Fun, right?
Which sports movie is this?
If you want comedy thrown together with a deeply hidden and important message, then you'll absolutely adore this movie. Will Ferrell thrives in what can only be described as one of his most underrated roles, which is really saying something. Figure skating is one of those sports that can be viewed as a 'give or take' form of entertainment, but when it's done right, especially on the big screen, it' can be sensational. Some of the humour may not be to the taste of everyone, but again, it all depends on what you allow yourself to enjoy and what you don't.
Which sports movie is this?
With big name players involved like Clint Eastwood, Hilary Swank and Morgan Freeman, it's hard not to be intrigued by the concept alone for this movie. Coming back from the brink can be hard, but as a viewer, it's an ideology that a lot of us can relate to. We don't all spend 100% of our time at the top of the mountain, and it's unrealistic to suggest that we do. This story of a boxing trainer trying to get someone to fulfill their true potential is really inspiring, and it may even be enough to get you to pick up a pair of gloves.
Which sports movie is this?
Just this image alone should be enough to jog your memory regarding the greatness of this movie. Some will say that it isn't an outright sports flick and whist we can understand the logic behind all of that, we're going to put it in here anyway. There's an element of the sporting world that gets inserted into this, and we think that makes it what it is. It really is a classic, and represents how enjoyable a movie can be even when you combine so many different elements. One minute you're feeling laid back, then the next, you're on edge.
Which sports movie is this?
One of the most controversial athletes of all time? Almost certainly. The man that you see in this image is dangerous, and to be honest, that can be taken in a series of different ways. When he was in his prime he was able to tear through his competition with ruthless efficiency, and beyond that, his back story that got him to that point is really intriguing. In the present day he seems to have cleaned himself up a bit, but this movie from back in the 90s gives you a really interesting insight into the day to day life of this beast.
Which sports movie is this?
Want to laugh, feel angry and feel a little bit confused at the same time? Then this is the movie for you. Margot Robbie is able to completely reinvent herself in the lead role, which won't come as all too much of a surprise to those that have been following her carer thus far. She's able to do it all in this business and so much more, which is the kind of skill you need to bring the story here to life. Why? Because there are just so very many elements to it and it's all a little bit complicated.
Which sports movie is this?
Clear eyes, full hearts, can't lose. Those are the famous words from the TV show namesake, but the movie is just as good - if not better. The art of football in the US is something that is celebrated throughout the nation, which is exemplified in the obsession surrounding Super Bowl Sunday. Aside from all of that noise, though, at the core of the game, there's a certain spirit and brotherhood that comes from playing in absolute wars week in, and week out. It doesn't really matter whether or not you're playing at the professional level or high school, either. It all counts.
Which sports movie is this?
Satire is important from time to time, because you need to be able to laugh at yourself and those around you. This movie accomplishes that goal pretty well, even though the critics may not necessarily agree. It falls into the category of being a 'cult' classic, and for the fans, they'll be able to watch it time and time again without getting bored. In essence, isn't that what sports movies are all about? You're able to re-live the story that you once fell in love with, and if you leave it long enough, you'll be able to enjoy the laughs as much as you did the first time around.
Which sports movie is this?
When you think of some of the greatest sportsmen to have ever lived, the individual that this film is based on almost certainly goes towards the top of the list. This movie is about the spirit of a team and, in essence, how one man helped to encapsulate that throughout the course of his life. The passing away of this man was a desperately sad occurrence and even that may be an understatement. It's emotional, it's beautiful, and if you're looking for movies on this list that'll almost certainly make you cry, then we'd suggest you start off with this one.
Which sports movie is this?
It's a comedy/sports movie that a lot of folks don't find all too funny, but it's a cult classic and there's just no way of getting around that. We consider this movie to be a fun story of how you can rise above what the doubters may think of you, coming out the other side with a whole lot of joy. It certainly isn't the most polished of movies on this list by any stretch of the imagination, but to be perfectly honest, it doesn't need to be. It is what it is as Max Holloway would say, and we're fine with that.
Which sports movie is this?
Mixed martial arts can be a pretty difficult subject to capture on the big screen, but when you mix in some comedy, it makes the process a whole lot easier. Not everyone in the MMA community was a huge fan of this when it first came out, and we understand why. However, if you take away the 'serious' aspect of it all, there's a lot of fun to be had. It's really hard to screw up a sports movie and that's just a fact, so while this may not be an absolute classic, it's worth your time if you happen to flick it on.
Which sports movie is this?
There are very few things we don't absolutely love about this movie. It tells the inspirational story of an underdog that finds a way to succeed, in a game that is particularly unfair 95% of the time. That's the kind of tale you can get behind, especially when you're working off the back of effective performances from the two handsome devils you see attached. It may not be everyone's cup of tea but from the soundtrack to the footage of the games to the commitment of the characters, it's the kind of heartwarming classic that lives long in the memory.
Which sports movie is this?
If you want to make a grown man cry and punch the air in unison, then just show him this movie. It was nominated for three Academy Awards and you could argue that it should've been nominated for double that, purely because of how painfully beautiful it is. Kevin Costner plays the lead and does a truly spectacular job in the process, building a connection with the audience that was rare with sports movies back in the late 80s. It makes you fall in love with the sport in question all over again, reminding us all of what it means to really 'feel'.
Which sports movie is this?
What happens when you put together a bunch of pro wrestlers, actors and former football players? You get a really fun movie, to be honest. Prison isn't usually a fun setting in modern day life, but in the movies, it always adds that extra sense of intrigue. There's an obvious comedic edge to this that everyone is going to enjoy, but in a lot of ways, it isn't even about that. It's about a bunch of people coming together as one to fight the big, bad bullies of this world. There are a few 'mixed signals' in that along the way, of course.
Which sports movie is this?
Put together two world class actors, a story that is easy to follow, and a hard-hitting sport - and what do you get? An absolute banger of a movie. There are many different elements to this movie that make it 'what it is' so to speak, and what it is, is a classic. That last word may be a little bit too strong for some folks, but just go back and rewatch it if you haven't done so in a while. It isn't even an old movie or anything like that, but somehow, you get the feeling it's going to age really well.
Which sports movie is this?
This movie is actually a remake, and whilst the two main characters have been hit and miss throughout their time on the big screen, we think this one was a big 'hit'. The obsession of a fan in the world of sports can often go too far, and you'll get an idea of how that can be the case in this movie. The Boston Red Sox's famous curse lasted far too long before it was eventually overcome, and yet, that somehow feels like the secondary piece of information in comparison to the love story that we see unfolding before us.
Which sports movie is this?
Robert De Niro's finest hour? We'd say so. Boxing is a pretty harsh and rough sport at the best of times, but that becomes even more accurate of a statement once you've learned a bit more about the intricacies of it all. This movie is great for that, as it teaches even the most basic of fans about what it means to commit 100% to your art form. Perhaps you don't think that movies of this nature, and sports like boxing qualify as an art form, but we'd suggest you are wrong. It's just a great, great movie. That's it.
Which sports movie is this?
Back in the day there were very few soccer movies that could truly be considered great - but this was definitely one of them. It may have been a little bit cheesy and it may have been a bit over the top at times, but isn't that the point of it all? You need to be able to form a connection between the audience and the subject matter, and they did that. It's just a phenomenally fun watch from start to finish, and you'll find yourself cheering for the underdog every step of the way. That, at the core of it all, is what matters the most.
Which sports movie is this?
You know that really famous song? You know, that we heard at the London Olympics? This is where it came from. If that isn't enough of a clue, then we'd urge you to take a long, hard look at the image you see in front of you. It's widely considered to be one of the greatest films of all time, and there's a multitude of reasons for that. It'll truly put a smile on your face in the way that only a great sports movie can, and the best part of it all (in our mind) is that it's actually pretty ageless.
Which sports movie is this?
"We believe you're the best young manager in the country". "Thank you, I'm the best old one, too". Just remarkable. There's something so cheeky and charming about a movie that promotes the idea of partnership in sports, and in this instance, most people don't even realise it's happening. The gritty manner in which this is filmed really does capture the heart and passion of the era, and Michael Sheen's performance is one for the ages. If you want to drop everything you're doing and just watch a quick two-hour classic, then this would be at the very top of our recommended list.
Which sports movie is this?
The inspirational story of four men who were able to overcome all obstacles that were put in front of them and come out of the other side with a smile on their faces. What's not to love? We've gone on and on as much as we possibly can about why the underdog story is such a believable and enjoyable one, but it's true. From the sport itself to the struggle of it all, you'll be on the edge of your seat from the first minute until the very last. We're only half way through this list and we're seriously considering a marathon of all of these movies.
Which sports movie is this?
This is one of the most culturally significant inclusions on this quiz and we'd dare someone to suggest otherwise. It goes beyond what many would've expected from it, and it also stars the likes of Tom Hanks and Madonna. I mean, come on, how can you not love a line-up like that? Above any specifics regarding the writing or storytelling, we just absolutely love how heartwarming the movie is. It's been over 25 years since it first aired, and yet, it probably could've been released into cinemas yesterday and still had the same kind of impact. Don't believe us? Go watch it first.
Which sports movie is this?
Minor league baseball can really do a lot to win people over and get them invested in a story, which is probably why it's still such a highly regarded sport in the States. Set in North Carolina, Kevin Costner once again stars and once again knocks it out of the park - pun not intended. To this day it is included in many lists when it comes to the greatest sports movies of all time, and it's pretty much impossible to suggest that it shouldn't be in the conversation. It's hard to get the mixture of comedy and sporting action right, but they really did nail it.
Which sports movie is this?
Invictus is important. Like, really really important. It focuses on a sport that doesn't get the kind of attention it deserves, and features a man that rightly does. Again, it's not everyone's cup of tea and we get it, but people who haven't seen it really do need to give it a whirl. There are low points in the movie but as is so often the case, it's the low points that make the high points that much sweeter. The conviction of the characters played by Freeman and Damon is one of the things that makes this so worthwhile and, well, lovely.
Which sports movie is this?
Fighting isn't exactly a past time that everyone should be fans of, but it's hard not to have fun with a movie like this. It's set in England and has gained cult-like status across the world, mainly due to the inclusion of a certain actor from the US of A that you will be able to spot in this image. It follows a group of men who may go to the game every week for the wrong reasons, but in the end, they're still as passionate as you can be about their team. Whether that's right or wrong is certainly up for debate.
Which sports movie is this?
It's just cute and fun, really. This movie doesn't try to be anything more than what it is, and you can only admire that. There are people who go out there are try to paint the perfect masterpiece on the big screen, and that's often because they're so obsessed with the idea of becoming legendary in the film industry. Then you've got movies like this that are fun, easy to watch, and just simple. Oh, and as you can quite clearly see, it blends together future Hollywood stars with adorable animals really well. It's extremely different to a lot of the other quiz answers here, which works for us.
Which sports movie is this?
The classic rise and fall tale is one that has been told and retold many times over the years, and it always seems to be more effective when it stems from a real story. That happens to be the case with this movie, which is as heartbreaking as it is inspirational. It follows the journey of someone who, quite simply put, was one of the best in the business at what he did. There's very little commentary to go alongside the documentary, and once you give it a watch, you'll understand that there really doesn't need to be at all.
Which sports movie is this?
Funny? Yes. Important? You betcha. As much as this movie tries to be laid back, we can't help but find some great messages hidden beneath the tarmac of the very court they're playing on. It features some big names in some big roles, and they more than live up to the hype that you've probably heard about this movie. The charismatic nature of the leads alongside their brilliant chemistry makes for a really entertaining watch from start to finish. As a sports-comedy film it still holds up as a really fun watch to this day, which can sometimes be a hard thing t accomplish.
Which sports movie is this?
Heartbreaking, disturbing, but a really important account of what is still one of wrestling's darkest tales. Steve Carell launches himself from the comedic Michael Scott to the serious John du Pont with flawless ease, and he leaves you hanging onto his every word. There's something so unbelievably cold and calculated about the way it's filmed, and to be honest, that's kind of the point. Carell completely transforms himself, and off the back of Channing Tatum & Mark Ruffalo's equally tremendous performances, you've got one hell of a blockbuster. In a lot of ways, not even the five Academy Award nominations do it justice.
Which sports movie is this?
This documentary follows the story of two brothers who, quite simply put, dominated at the top of their field for years and years. They were pretty much invincible throughout the course of their prime, and you'll find very few folks who will deny that with a straight face. They've got a complex story and while some casual fans may be quick to paint them as villains, that isn't the case at all. Even after their respective retirements, it feels like they're doing all the right things in order to help not only those around them, but also the sport that made them.