Camaraderie, heart, and a good underdog story are often at the core of a good sports drama. The top sports drama movies tap into a universal quest for greatness in the setting of a field, court, or track. This is a list of great dramas about athletes featuring everything from Field of Dreams to The Blind Side to Friday Night Lights.
What films will you find on this list of great dramas about sports? Of course, Rocky has to make an appearance here. The 1977 Academy Award winner had everyone rooting for the title character inside the ring and out while he rose up to fight adversity. Raging Bull – directed by Martin Scorsese – is another great sports drama about a tough boxer.
Many notable sports movies are about men, but women stepped into the spotlight, and up to the plate, with A League of Their Own. Other good movies featured on this top sports dramas list include The Hurricane, The Karate Kid, and My All American.
Do you have a favorite sports drama? Take a look at this list, vote your favorites to the top, and please add any good movies about athletes that are missing.
- 1
For Fans Of: Sports, Drama, Action, Inspirational Stories
Why Should I Watch Rocky: An underdog story that transcends the boxing ring, Rocky showcases Sylvester Stallone as both an actor and writer with a tale of perseverance, love, and self-discovery. This Oscar-winning film resonates as a timeless classic and serves as a master class in character development.- Released: 1976
- Directed by: John G. Avildsen
- 2
For Fans Of: Sports, Drama, True Stories, Civil Rights Movements
Why Should I Watch Remember the Titans: A powerful exploration of race relations and teamwork, this film chronicles a newly integrated high school football team's journey to success against all odds. Based on a true story, Remember the Titans boasts captivating performances by Denzel Washington and Will Patton.- Released: 2000
- Directed by: Boaz Yakin
- 3
For Fans Of: Sports, Historical Drama, True Stories, Inspirational Stories, Ice Hockey
Why Should I Watch Miracle: Based on the incredible true story of the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team, this film expertly balances sports drama with historical significance. Kurt Russell's inspiring portrayal of coach Herb Brooks will have viewers cheering for America's iconic underdog victory over the Soviet Union.- Released: 2004
- Directed by: Gavin O'Connor
- 4
For Fans Of: Martial Arts, Drama, Coming Of Age, Sports, Family
Why Should I Watch The Karate Kid: This influential coming-of-age film tells the transformative story of Daniel LaRusso, who learns martial arts from an unlikely mentor – Mr. Miyagi, played by Pat Morita in his Oscar-nominated role. With themes of determination and friendship at its core, The Karate Kid remains relevant today for audiences young and old.- Released: 1984
- Directed by: John G. Avildsen
- 5
For Fans Of: Sports, Drama, Inspirational Stories, Basketball
Why Should I Watch Hoosiers: Gene Hackman delivers an outstanding performance in this beloved basketball drama set in rural Indiana during the 1950s. The film offers a stirring examination of redemption and community support while serving as an ode to small-town Americana.- Released: 1986
- Directed by: David Anspaugh
- 6
For Fans Of: Drama, Fantasy, Sports, Inspirational Stories, Family
Why Should I Watch Field of Dreams: A heartfelt exploration into father-son relationships set against the backdrop of baseball lore, Kevin Costner shines in this magical drama that truly captures America's pastime spirit. Brimming with philosophical ideas, this classic film asks the eternal question, "Is this heaven?"- Released: 1989
- Directed by: Phil Alden Robinson
