American football has been brilliantly depicted in numerous films. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for captivating stories, explore the diverse themes offered in this film category.
Below is a curated list of the top American football movies that include true stories, comedy and serious dramas:
We Are Marshall
Streaming on: Prime Video, Vudu, Apple TV and more (on rent)
When faced with a monumental tragedy, moving forward can be an immense challenge. The 2006 movie “We Are Marshall” depicts this theme. It shows the true story of the 1970 Marshall University football team plane crash that killed several players and coaches and the strength it took to rebuild the program
The Blind Side
Streaming on: Tubi
“The Blind Side” unfolds another compelling true story in American football. It focuses on Michael Oher’s journey to becoming an All-American football player and a first-round NFL draft pick, with crucial support from Leigh Anne Tuohy.
Sandra Bullock’s portrayal of this compassionate woman earned her the Best Actress Academy Award.
Rudy
Streaming on: DIRECTV STREAM, Hulu, Philo, AMC
“Rudy”, released in 1993, should also be on your watchlist if you love true-life movies. It chronicles Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger’s determination to play football for the University of Notre Dame. This sports drama is an excellent choice if you enjoy stories where underdogs triumph.
Brian’s Song
Streaming on: Tubi
Racial tensions were high in the 1970s when “Brian’s Song” was released. However, this didn’t stop the Chicago Bears white football player Brian Piccolo and his black teammate, Gale Sayers, from becoming friends. This true-life movie captures the essence of their bond and the heart-wrenching experience of losing a dear friend.
The Longest Yard
Streaming on: Paramount+, Pluto TV
Both the 1974 original and the 2005 remake of “The Longest Yard” are worth watching. The plot follows a former NFL quarterback assembling a team of inmates for a football game against prison guards, blending humor with an engaging storyline.
The Waterboy
Streaming on: DIRECTV STREAM, Hulu, FXNOW
Released in 1998, “The Waterboy”, delivers comedic brilliance. It stars Adam Sandler, who plays Bobby Boucher, a waterboy for a college football team. After getting fired from the job, he switches to a rival team. However, when the coach notices Bobby’s talent for aggression, he gives him the linebacker position.
Little Giants
Streaming on: Prime Video, YouTube, Apple TV and more (on rent)
“Little Giants” (1994) adds a touch of family-friendly comedy to the football theme. It depicts misfit kids who join to form a football team. Their mission is to beat another team coached by the brother of one of the players.
The Replacements
Streaming on: DIRECTV STREAM, TNT
“The Replacements” (2000) continues the sports comedy theme. Keanu Reeves plays a professional quarterback who must work with a team of replacement players during a football strike. The film explores themes of teamwork and perseverance.
Any Given Sunday
Streaming on: Prime Video, YouTube, Vudu and more (on rent)
For those seeking the serious side of American football, “Any Given Sunday” (1999) offers a dramatic exploration of the professional football world. It provides an inside look into the game itself and the struggles experienced by players, NFL team owners and coaches.
Invincible
Streaming on: Disney+
“Invincible” (2006) is another football-based drama that’s worth watching. It depicts the true story of Vince Papale, who tries out for the Philadelphia Eagles and makes it on the team after losing his job as a part-time bartender. It’s another underdog story, like “Rudy,” that explores themes such as determination and perseverance.
All the Right Moves
Streaming on: Apple TV, iTunes (on rent)
High school football is a big deal at many small American high schools. “All the Right Moves” (1983) is the story of a high school football player, played by Tom Cruise, who wants to get ahead and not get stuck in the rundown town where he resides. If he can get a football scholarship, he can improve himself by attending a good engineering school.
Gridiron Gang
Streaming on: Netflix, The Roku Channel
“Gridiron Gang” (2006) is another serious drama and true story. The lead role is played by Dwayne Johnson, a former football player who is the supervisor at a juvenile detention center. When he sees a lack of unity, self-esteem and discipline in the center’s teenage interns, he decides to form them into a football team and give them a reason to feel better about their lives.
Conclusion
This curated list offers a diverse lineup of American football movies catering to various tastes, from intense dramas to light-hearted comedies. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or simply in the mood for a compelling story, these films provide a fantastic way to unwind and be entertained.
So, grab your popcorn, settle into your favorite spot, and get ready for an immersive journey through the triumphs, challenges, and humor that make the world of American football so captivating.