6 Best Soccer Movies Ever Produced

Soccer, also known as football, is debatably the most followed sport in the world. Thus it is no surprise that it has been the focal theme of many films over the years.

From drama and comedy to biopics and documentaries, soccer movies have captured passion, emotion, and excitement like no other. Our predictions today is the film industry has much more to show about this beautiful sport. So far, here are some of the top soccer movies of all time.

Escape to Victory (1981)

Starring Sylvester Stallone, Michael Caine, and Pelé, this wartime sports drama tells the story of a group of allied prisoners of war. Although they are coerced to play a soccer match against a German team, they use the pitch’s invasion as a cover to plan their escape.

Pelé’s team, including some Ipswich Town side, comes back from a 4-1 scoreline to end the game in an unbelievable tie. Stallone’s inflaming enthusiasm and mind-blowing save contributed to the game’s leveling.

Bend It Like Beckham (2002)

It’s apparent who the football star sensation of this production is. But contrary to what you might think, it portrays the pressing soccer inspiration of two ladies. This coming-of-age comedy-drama stars Parminder Nagra as Jesminder Bhamra and Kiera Knightley as Jules Paxton.

Parminder is a Sikh girl in London who wants to play soccer despite her traditional parents’ disapproval. Kiera also shares the same passion, but the societal norm was a momentary factoring hindrance.

The film was critically acclaimed for its humor, art, and accurate depiction of soccer culture. And it’s a breakout performance for the then-teenage actresses.

Shaolin Soccer (2001)

Shaolin Soccer continues to draw global fascination even today. This Hong Kong martial arts comedy film stars Stephen Chow as a former Shaolin monk who forms a soccer team made up of his Shaolin brothers. Using their incredible kung-fu skills, they hilariously defeated their opponents.

The Damned United (2009)

Based on David Peace’s novel of the same name, this film tells the story of Brian Clough’s 44-day tenure as the manager of Leeds United. The latter of which was one of the most successful soccer clubs in England at the time.

Like in “Good Omens” and “Frost/Nixon,” the Welsh lead actor, Michael Sheen, is convincing as a prescient English coach in this award-winning Tom Hooper drama.

The Game of Their Lives (2005)

This historical sports drama film tells the story of the 1950 United States soccer team that stunned the world by beating extremely favored England in the 1950 FIFA World Cup. The match, commonly referred to as the “Miracle on Grass”, is considered one of the greatest upsets in the history of sports.

This movie is also called ” The Miracle Match.” The writing takes viewers deeper into the lives of the U.S. squad off the pitch, offering more depth before their unforgettable matchup.

Fever Pitch (1997)

Starring Colin Firth and Ruth Gemmell, this romantic comedy-drama is about a schoolteacher who is a pious supporter of the Arsenal Football Club. It shows how he handles his devotion to the sport and his relationship with a woman who is not a soccer fan. It was loosely adapted from Nick Hornby’s 1992 memoir of the same title.

These are just some of the top soccer movies of all time, and each one offers a unique perspective on the lovely game. Whether you’re a soccer fan or not, these films are sure to leave you entertained and mesmerized.