(Credit: Netflix)

Out of all genres of films, sports movies have a different fan base. Generally, the people who watch these films aren’t there just for the plot, but because they have a unique way of capturing the human spirit. They showcase tales of perseverance, ambition, and triumph, and Netflix offers a diverse selection of some of the best sports films out there for your gaming fix.

Another reason why sports films are so intriguing is that the narratives go beyond the playing field. Whether it’s the underdog story or the relentless pursuit of excellence, the genre guarantees to keep you hooked till the end.

Netflix is considered to have one of the best collections of sports films because it has something for every fan, from intense dramas to inspiring true stories. Sports movies, therefore, are easy fodder.

In the following list, we have handpicked five exceptional sports movies for you that are currently streaming on the platform. Each film offers a distinct perspective on the world of organised sporting, highlighting personal journeys, societal challenges, and the sheer thrill of competition.

Five best sports movies to watch on Netflix

Hustle – Jeremiah Zagar (2022)

Adam Sandler has mostly played and garnered appreciation (and an equal measure of flak) for his comic roles, but there are a handful of films where he has played serious characters, to much critical acclaim. One such film is the 2022 sports drama Hustle. He steps into the role of Stanley Sugerman, a seasoned basketball scout who discovers a raw but talented player in Spain. Determined to bring this underdog to the NBA, Sugerman faces numerous challenges, both personal and professional, in his quest to prove the player’s worth.

This film provides a heartfelt look into the world of professional basketball, emphasising the importance of mentorship, resilience, and belief in one’s potential. Sandler’s compelling performance makes the film a must-watch for all sports lovers.

Moneyball – Bennett Miller (2011)

One of the best biographical sports comedy-dramas of all time, there is hardly any sports fan who hasn’t watched Moneyball. The film chronicles the true story of Billy Beane, the general manager of the Oakland Athletics, who revolutionised baseball by employing sabermetrics to assemble a competitive team on a limited budget. Brad Pitt’s portrayal of Beane skillfully showcases the challenges and triumphs of going against traditional norms.

Moneyball is considered so much more than just a sports film because it combines sports with data analytics. Through this, it perfectly highlights how innovation and unconventional thinking can disrupt established systems for the better.

The Blind Side – John Lee Hancock (2009)

This film is a heartwarming story of Michael Oher, played by Quinton Aaron, a homeless teenager who rises to become an NFL star with the support of a caring family. Alongside him is Sandra Bullock in the lead role of the caretaker, Leigh Anne Tuohy, who not only takes Michael into her home but also helps him unlock his potential. Her stellar performance as Tuohy won her an Oscar for ‘Best Actress’.

This film is not just about professional football; it is about the transformative power of kindness and belief in someone’s potential. The Blind Side serves as a poignant reminder of how compassion and support can change a person’s life trajectory.

High Flying Bird – Steven Soderbergh (2019)

If you are tired of watching sports dramas too focused on the game, Steven Soderbergh’s High Flying Bird offers a fresh take on the tired narratives by focusing on the business side of basketball. The plot revolves around the story of a sports agent with an innovative plan to empower players and challenge the traditional power structures of the league during an NBA lockout.

What’s most amazing about this film’s making is that it was entirely shot on an iPhone. Its unique visual style complements its sharp dialogue and timely commentary on athlete empowerment and the commercialisation of sports at the expense of the players.

The Swimmers – Sally El Hosaini (2022)

Desperate for an inspiring sports film focusing on women athletes? Look no further and check out The Swimmers. It narrates the inspiring journey of Syrian sisters Yusra and Sara Mardini, who flee their war-torn country and embark on a perilous journey to Europe. Their swimming skills become a means of survival, eventually leading Yusra to compete in the 2016 Rio Olympics.

The Swimmers is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to overcome adversity and achieve greatness against all odds, beyond gender and borders.