Top Five Sports Movies!

by Justin Cusson

Now before I continue with this blog, I must admit that I am not the biggest movie guy. I know, very weird thing to admit but I genuinely don't have the attention span to sit through a movie especially if it's about a topic in which I have no interest.

But I do know of five sports related movies that I would consider the greatest of all time. The list that I curated is a good mix of different sports so I am definitely excited to get into this.

Number 5: Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby

Do I even really need to explain this one? This movie is an absolute classic comedy with Will Ferrell, John C. Reilly, and Sasha Baron Choen battling it out on the intense tracks of NASCAR. Of course, this was one of the first representations of a “Formula Une” driver, as “Jean Girard” would refer to his former position, in mainstream American film.

With classic scenes like when Ricky Bobby thought he was on fire, when in reality he was not. Or when Bobby stabbed his leg with a knife to prove he was paralyzed, when again, he was not. This movie provides the gripping storyline and comedy that makes it a brilliant watch every time. They recently added this movie on netflix so if you've never seen it before I would definitely check it out.

Number 4: Rush

Sticking with the motorsport theme, Rush is an excellent bio-pic on the life of Niki Lauda, one of the most influential figures in Formula One.

Centered over his intense rivalry with James Hunt, the actor in which played Niki nailed all of his mannerisms and accent and it genuinely felt like we were watching Niki's real life. With the incredible plot, which is based on a real series of events, and the dramatic racing scenes make for a very intense watch that will have you on the edge of your seat the whole film.

I don't want to reveal too much of the plot because I think you should really give this one a watch, even if you know nothing about Formula One. The plot is still extremely interesting and very easy to follow so if you're interested this one is on netflix as well!

Number 3: Miracle

I'd be remiss if I did not include this classic film on to my list. I guess I am a big fan of bio-pics, because this story of the 1980’s olympic hockey team defeating the Soviet Union and bringing an immense wave of American pride and spirit, is extremely gripping and emotional the whole way through.

I really liked the detail of the recruiting process on the team and really diving into each player's story. Playing hockey as a kid and into my adulthood, the story of Jimmy Craig was extremely motivating to me and I even added the famous shamrock on to my own helmet for my whole career. This movie has continued to be a classic throughout my childhood and still to this day so it is very fitting it is in the top 3.

Number 2: The Longest Yard

Now this one really hits home. I used to watch this movie with my dad all the time, and whenever we can get around to it we still go back to watch. This movie is both hilarious and extremely emotional at the same time. The plot of prisoners vs. guards in an intense football game made for an extremely interesting dynamic throughout the whole film. With a loaded roster of top Hollywood talent, this movie will remain a staple in my life and if you watch it, I think it will become one for you too.

Number 1: Moneyball

The easiest choice on this list. This movie tells the story of former Oakland Athletics general manager, Billy Beane and the innovative decision to turn to computer analytics to develop a winning team on a very strict budget. Brad Pitt and Jonah Hill play huge roles in developing the relationships between managers and players and it was extremely cool to watch the whole process and actually develop that winning team.

This movie is an easy 10/10 for me and the plot kept me biting my nails the whole time. I definitely recommend this movie to anyone who's interested.

Well there it is! My top five, I hope I didn't offend anyone too badly but these movies are definitely movies that I will continue to go back to for the rest of my life. If you guys do end up watching any of these movies let me know what you think and I hope y’all enjoy!