Sports movies have a special way of bringing families together and inspiring us through stories of underdogs, teamwork, and the pursuit of dreams. Whether it’s the thrill of a game or the heartwarming stories behind athletes, these movies are perfect for family movie night. Here’s a curated list of the best sports movies for kids and families, with movie details and personal insights to get you excited about each one.
Here’s what’s included in our curated list of family-friendly sports movies:
key statistics
- Total number of movies:38
- Most common ratings: PG
- Most Distinctive Actor:Kurt Russell (3 movies)
- most common sports: Baseball (8 movies)
Movies of the Decade
- 1960s: 1 movie
- 1970s: 1 movie
- 1980s: 5 films
- 1990s: 12 films
- 2000s: 11 films
- 2010s: 8 films
Top 5 sports picks
- Baseball (8 movies)
- Football (6 movies)
- Basketball (4 movies)
- Hockey (2 movies)
- Running (2 movies)
interesting facts
- The oldest movie on our list is from 1966 (endless summer).
- The 1990s saw the greatest number of family-friendly sports movies released.
- While baseball dominates, we also have a diverse range of sports, including less common sports like sledding and chess!
- All movies feature 16 different sports.
This list spans 50 years of sports movies, offering something for every member of the family. Whether you like classic underdog stories, true stories of success, or just good family fun, you’re sure to find a new favorite here!
Heaven Can Wait (1978)
Director: Warren Beatty/Buck Henry
Main cast: Warren Beatty, Julie Christie, James Mason
Age rating: PG
The film tells the story of a football player who is given a second chance at life after experiencing heavenly chaos. I love how it blends fantasy and movement with humor and heart, making it an enjoyable watch for all ages.
Chariots of Fire(1981)
Director: Hugh Hudson
Main actors: Ben Cross, Ian Charleson, Nicholas Farrell
Age rating: PG
Set during the 1924 Olympics, the film tells the story of two British runners with different motivations. Its inspirational themes and iconic scores always give me chills and make me appreciate the dedication of athletes.
Nature(1984)
Director: Barry Levinson
Main actors: Robert Redford, Robert Duvall, Glenn Close
Age rating: PG
It tells the story of a talented baseball player whose career is in trouble but ultimately triumphs. Robert Redford’s portrayal is riveting, and the mythical quality of the film has always resonated with me.
The Karate Kid(1984)
Director: John G. Avelson
Main actors: Ralph Macchio, Pat Morita, Elizabeth Sue
Age rating: PG
This classic tells the story of a teenager who learns karate to defend himself. Pat Morita’s performance as Mr. Miyagi is unforgettable, and the film’s lessons about perseverance and respect are timeless.
Indian(1986)
Director: David Anspaugh
Main actors: Gene Hackman, Barbara Hershey, Dennis Hopper
Age rating: PG
This is a heartwarming story about a small town high school basketball team that wins the state championship. Gene Hackman’s performance as the coach is inspiring, and this is a movie that makes you root for the underdog.
Field of Dreams(1989)
Director: Phil Olden Robinson
Main cast: Kevin Costner, Amy Madigan, James Earl Jones
Age rating: PG
When a farmer hears a voice telling him to build a baseball diamond, it begins an extraordinary journey. Magical realism and themes of redemption and faith are what make this film so special.
Ducks(1992)
Director: Stephen Herrick
Main actors: Emilio Estevez, José Ackland, Ryan Smith
Age rating: PG
A self-centered lawyer is sentenced to community service as the coach of a ragtag youth hockey team. This movie is about teamwork and overcoming obstacles, and it’s a lot of fun to watch.
Sand (1993)
Director: David Mickey Evans
Main actors: Tom Gary, Mike Vital, Patrick Crenna
Age rating: PG
A nostalgic tale of a group of kids who bond over baseball during one magical summer. It’s a charming film that captures the essence of childhood and love of gaming.
Looking for Bobby Fisher(1993)
Director: Steven Zaillian
Main actors: Joe Mantegna, Ben Kingsley, Max Pomeranck
Age rating: PG
The film follows a young chess prodigy and the challenges he faces. This is a thoughtful film that explores the balance between ambition and childhood.
Rookie of the Year (1993)
Director: Daniel Stern
Main actors: Thomas Ian Nicholas, Gary Busey, Albert Hall
Age rating: PG
A boy discovers that his once broken arm has healed, allowing him to become a major league baseball pitcher. This is a fun, feel-good, laugh-filled movie.
Cool Run(1993)
Director: Jon Turtletaub
Main cast: John Candy, Leon, Doug E. Doug
Age rating: PG
Based on the true story of the first Jamaican bobsled team’s attempt to compete in the Winter Olympics. The film’s humor and heart are a joy to watch, and its underdog story is impossible not to love.
Angels in the Outfield(1994)
Director: William Deere
Main actors: Danny Glover, Tony Danza, Christopher Lloyd
Age rating: PG
A young boy prays for a struggling baseball team, and angels are sent to help. The film is whimsical, uplifting and perfect for young audiences.
Little Giant(1994)
Director: Duwayne Dunham
Main cast: Rick Moranis, Ed O’Neal, Shawna Waldron
Age rating: PG
A group of misfit kids form a football team to take on the town’s elite. It’s hilarious and heartwarming, celebrating perseverance and teamwork.
Big Green(1995)
Director: Holly Goldberg Sloan
Main cast: Steve Guttenberg/Olivia Dabo/Jay O. Sanders
Age rating: PG
A group of underachieving kids transform into a winning football team under a new coach. This is another underdog story filled with humor and warmth.
Space Jam(1996)
Director: Joe Petka
Main cast: Michael Jordan, Wayne Knight, Theresa Randall
Age rating: PG
Basketball superstar Michael Jordan teams up with Bugs Bunny and other Looney Tunes characters to win a high-stakes basketball game. It’s a fun blend of live action and animation that kids will love.
Air Bud(1997)
Director: Charles Martin Smith
Main cast: Michael Jeter, Kevin Zegers, Wendy Makena
Age rating: PG
A little boy and his dog discover the uncanny ability of dogs to play basketball. This movie is pure fun and shows the bond between a boy and his pet.
Remember the Titans(2000)
Director: Boaz Yakin
Main cast: Denzo Washington, Will Pattonwood-Harris
Age rating: PG
Based on the true story of a high school football team’s first season as an integrated unit. Denzo Washington’s performance is powerful, and the film’s message about unity and overcoming prejudice is timeless.
Rookie(2002)
Director: John Lee Hancock
Main cast: Dennis Quaid, Rachel Griffith, Jay Hernandez
Age rating: G
A high school coach makes it to the major leagues after agreeing to try to see if his team makes the playoffs. This is an inspiring story about second chances and following your dreams.
Miracle(2004)
Director: Gavin O’Connor
Main cast: Kurt Russell, Patricia Clarkson, Noah Emmerich
Age rating: PG
The story of the 1980 Olympic hockey team, the United States, which defeated the seemingly invincible Soviet team. Kurt Russell’s portrayal of coach Herb Brooks is riveting, and the film captures the intensity of this historic moment.
Dreamer(2005)
Director: John Gatins
Main cast: Kurt Russell, Dakota Fanning, Kris Kristofferson
Age rating: PG
The film is inspired by a true story about a racehorse who made an incredible comeback after a broken leg. It warms the heart and shows the power of hope and determination.
Kicking and Screaming(2005)
Director: Jesse Dillon
Main cast: Will Ferrell, Robert Duvall, Josh Hutchison
Age rating: PG
A father becomes the coach of his son’s football team, and the journey is filled with joy and some life lessons. Will Ferrell’s comic timing makes this movie a laugh-out-loud movie for the whole family.
Invincible(2006)
Director: Erikson Cole
Main cast: Mark Wahlberg, Greg Kinnear, Elizabeth Banks
Age rating: PG
The inspiring true story of bartender Vince Papale who became an NFL player. Mark Wahlberg brings grit and determination to the role, making the film an exhilarating watch.
Express(2008)
Director: Gary Fried
Main cast: Rob Brown, Dennis Quaid, Darin DeWitt-Hanson
Age rating: PG
Based on the life of Ernie Davis, the first African-American to win the Heisman Trophy. This is a powerful story about perseverance and breaking down barriers.
Secretariat(2010)
Director: Randall Wallace
Main cast: Diane Lane, John Markovich, Margot Martindale
Age rating: PG
The story of legendary racehorse Secretariat and her owner who triumphed against all odds. This film is both inspiring and exciting, showcasing the incredible bond between owners and horses.
Soul Surf(2011)
Director: Sean McNamara
Main cast: AnnaSophia Robb, Helen Hunt, Dennis Quaid
Age rating: PG
The true story of surfer Bethany Hamilton, who returned to the waves after losing an arm in a shark attack. This is an uplifting story of courage and resilience that will inspire the whole family.
McFarlane, USA (2015)
Director: Niki Caro
Main cast: Kevin Costner, Maria Bello, Morgan Saylor
Age rating: PG
Cross country coach transforms a team of underprivileged high school boys into championship contenders. The film perfectly captures the spirit of determination and the impact of mentorship.
Million Arms(2014)
Director: Craig Gillespie
Main cast: Jon Hamm, Asif Mandvi, Alan Arkin
Age rating: PG
A sports agent is in India looking for cricket players to play in Major League Baseball. This heartwarming story combines sport with a cultural journey to demonstrate the power of believing in your dreams.
Before (2016)
Director: Jeff Zimbalist, Michael Zimbalist
Main cast: Kevin de Paula, Leonardo Lima Carvalho, Sue Jorge
Age rating: PG
This biographical film tells the story of football legend Pele’s rise from a Brazilian slum to worldwide fame. It’s an inspiring story of talent, passion and hard work that highlights Pele’s incredible journey.
For families with older children
Endless Summer(1966)
Director: Bruce Brown
Main cast: Robert August, Michael Hison, Lord “Taliho” Briles
Age rating: PG
A classic documentary that follows two surfers as they chase summer around the world. It’s an adventurous, visually stunning film that captures the essence of surf culture.
Basketball Dream(1984)
Director: Steve James
Main actors: William Gates, Arthur Agee, Emma Gates
Age rating: PG-13
This documentary follows the lives of two Chicago high school students who aspire to become professional basketball players. It’s an insightful and powerful look at the aspirations, families and socio-economic challenges young people face.
Friday Night(2004)
Director: Peter Berg
Main cast: Billy Bob Thornton, Lucas Blake, Garrett Hedlund
Age rating: PG-13
The story of a Texas high school football team and their pursuit of a state championship. The film captures the intense pressure and community spirit that comes with American high school sports.
