As The Beautiful Game has dropped on Netflix, audiences can’t help but appreciate the gripping tale of homeless English footballers, as they go on to compete in the Homeless World Cup, an annual global tournament. Led by coach Mal (Bill Nighy) and striker Vinny (Micheal Ward), the team overcomes various challenges to fulfill their dreams. If you liked the film, and are searching for more such content to watch, we have got you covered. Here are 7 films like The Beautiful Game that you can check out.
1. McFarland, USA (2015)
McFarland, USA is an inspiring sports drama based on the true story of a high school cross-country team from a predominantly Latino community in McFarland, California. Coach Jim White, portrayed by Kevin Costner, faces challenges as he mentors the team, comprised of talented but underprivileged runners. Through perseverance, hard work, and mutual respect, the team defies expectations and achieves remarkable success in both athletics and academics, similar to the themes explored in The Beautiful Game.
2. Remember the Titans (2000)
Based on a true story, Remember the Titans revolves around the integration of the T.C. Williams High School football team in Virginia during the early 1970s. Amidst racial tensions and resistance, Coach Herman Boone, portrayed by Denzel Washington, leads the team, uniting black and white players to form a cohesive unit. Just like The Beautiful Game, Remember the Titans also showcases the team overcoming adversity to become champions, both on and off the field through teamwork, respect, and perseverance.
3. Friday Night Lights (2004)
Based on a true story and inspired by the book of the same name, Friday Night Lights follows the Permian High School Panthers as they navigate the pressures of their community and the pursuit of a state championship. Led by Coach Gaines, portrayed by Billy Bob Thornton, the team faces adversity and personal challenges on their journey. This gripping sports drama captures the essence of small-town Texas football culture.
4. We Are Marshall (2006)
Another film based on true events, We Are Marshall tells the story of the 1970 Marshall University football team tragedy. After a devastating plane crash claimed the lives of most team members, Coach Jack Lengyel (Matthew McConaughey) takes on the challenge of rebuilding the program. Amidst grief and skepticism, the team, along with the entire community, rallies together to honor the fallen and restore hope.
5. The Mighty Macs (2009)
The Mighty Macs traces the journey of Cathy Rush, a real-life personality, who became the head coach of the women’s basketball team at Immaculata College in the 1970s. Facing skepticism and limited resources, Coach Rush leads her team to unprecedented success, winning the first national championship for women’s college basketball. Rush is played by actress Carla Gugino, who is accompanied by Ellen Burstyn, Marley Shelton, David Boreanaz, Katie Hayek, and Kim Blair.
6. Cool Runnings (1993)
Cool Runnings is a sports comedy film inspired by the true story of Jamaica’s first bobsled team to compete in the Winter Olympics. Led by the determined Coach Irving Blitzer, portrayed by John Candy, a group of Jamaican sprinters-turned-bobsledders defy the odds and overcome obstacles on their journey to the Olympic Games. A similar storyline has been seen in The Beautiful Game.
7. United (2011)
United is a television film based on the true story of the 1958 Munich air disaster involving the Manchester United football team. The film depicts the tragedy and the subsequent rebuilding of the team under the guidance of manager Matt Busby, played by David Tennant. Directed by James Strong, the film also stars Jack O’Connell, Sam Claflin, and Dougray Scott.