Words: Alex Woodhall
It’s fair to say everyone loves a good underdog story. A rags to riches plot, an underachieving/under-talented protagonist with a moving motivation speech thrown in for good measure, it’s a Hollywood formula we simply can’t get enough of.
Here are five of the sports films that really give us goose bumps, irrespective of how many times we watch them.
RUDY
A true story, Rudy illustrates the sheer power of human spirit and determination. Based on the early life of Rudy Ruettiger (Sean Astin), it tells the tale of a young man battling obstacles to realise his dreams of playing football for the University of Notre Dame. The iconic ‘jersey scene’ in particular is the one that gets most people, us included.
CINDERELLA MAN
The Oscar and Golden Globe nominated biopic of boxer James Braddock, played by Russell Crowe. The film centres on a crocked fighter who, by a stroke of fortune, is presented the opportunity to return to the ring to ease his financial burdens.
WE ARE MARSHALL
When a college football team’s plane crashes, killing all members on-board, the school’s football program must rebuild among community heartbreak. Featuring a rousing performance from Matthew McConaughey, before his so-dubbed ‘McConaissance’, you’ll struggle to hold back a tear during the “we are Marshall” chants.
THE BLIND SIDE
Sandra Bullock, yes that Sandra Bullock, proves she can turn in an Oscar winning performance in The Blind Side. She plays a wealthy interior designer who takes in an impoverished teenager, helping him eventually become a number one NFL draft pick. The definition of a rags to riches tale, this is a film you can’t not watch.
ROCKY
Last but by no means least, the iconic Rocky. As far as inspiring sports movies go, it’s hard to knock the 1976 Academy Award winning Stallone classic off the top spot. Regardless of how many times you watch it, it retains its charm and appeal as the ultimate underdog story.
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