Top 5 Sports Movies

You are an avid sports fan. However, you find yourself without tickets to the latest big game in town and the game is not on television. What do you do? Why not utilize the time watch or re-watch one or more of the greatest sports movies ever made. Believe it or not, there have been countless movies produced dealing with a wide range of sports over the years. I have listed the top five sports movies, in my humble opinion. Take a look and definitely check out these flicks if you have yet to do so. Viewing any of the following films is time well spent.

Honorable Mention- Breaking Away. If you like bicycles and racing, you might find this 1979 movie very enjoyable. It might also make you think about growing up and getting out on your own.

#5- Rocky. This 1976 classic starring Sylvester Stallone is set in Philadelphia and showcases an up and coming boxer. The movie has all the right songs and the storyline makes you want to jump straight into the boxing ring right along with the character. The training and motivational scenes are simply awesome. Rocky has numerous sequels, but this original blockbuster undoubtedly puts all the rest to shame. There is nothing like seeing Rocky in the early days as he works his way up the ladder. Viewers should not expect great dialogue from Stallone, but the central theme is easily conveyed.

#4- Caddy Shack. Did anyone ever say sports movies could not be funny? If you are in need of several great laughs, this 1980 film featuring Chevy Chase, Rodney Dangerfield, and Bill Murray focuses on golf. If you are a golfer, you will definitely appreciate this movie as you chuckle. If you do not golf, you will be inclined to pick up a few clubs and hit your nearest course after you finish chuckling. While the film takes a humorous look at the country club lifestyle, it also takes you through the life of a young caddy trying to make life better for himself. You will be rolling and crying during many of the scenes in this picture, however. There is even a little furry creature that gets in on the action and provides some nuisances.

#3- Rudy. This 1993 picture with Sean Astin is based on a true story. It is based on the life of Daniel "Rudy" Ruettiger. Rudy's dream was to play football for Notre Dame. The story chronicles Rudy's life and never say quit attitude. Ultimately, he does make the team and gets to play in a game. This is definitely a movie to watch if you need inspiration and want to see tenacity in action. It also helps if you like Notre Dame.

#2- Brian's Song. Although very young when this movie aired, I distinctly remember my mother taking a strong interest in this film based on a true story. I am not certain if it was her fascination of football or her love of the main characters. Starring Billy Dee Williams and James Caan, the 1971 film depicts the relationship between football players Gayle Sayers and Brian Piccolo. This movie truly emphasizes the meaning of teammate and friendship.

#1- Remember the Titans. By far, this movie is my number one all time favorite sports movie. Denzel Washington does an excellent job portraying Coach Herman Boone in this memorable 2000 film. During the 1971 school system integration, Boone is selected as head football coach of T.C. Williams High School in Alexandria, Virginia over a white coach who has a strong local support. The film takes you through the challenges that Boone and his staff face among each other, the community, and the football players. Ultimately, the town is brought together through the unity and cooperation of the football team that won the 1971 Virginia State Championship. The film demonstrates how one group of committed young players overcame racism and worked together for the common good. This one is definitely one you will want to watch again and again.