by Sandra Alting
But off it, Hollywood’s finest actors and actresses have helped glamourise the sport and give it big exposure on the big screen.
Over the years, there have been many soccer films that have wowed cinema audiences over the world, and they have also been watched multiple times on TV, via DVD, and more recently through streaming platforms such as Amazon and Netflix.
But which are our favourites? Well, in this piece, we have decided the following to be four of the best. They are also in no particular order.
Bend it Like Beckham (2002)
It’s amazing to think Bend it Like Beckham is over 20 years old! When it was first released in 2002, it was a breath of fresh air and it was one of those feel-good British comedies.
Centred around tomboy Jules played by Keira Knightley who lures Jess played by Parminder Nagra to go against her parents and play football, this film was thoroughly enjoyed by cinemagoers. So much so that it was a smash hit in the US and the UK.
Fever Pitch (1997)
This iconic film has caused many to re-examine their relationship with and attitudes to soccer. Based on an Arsenal fanatic who tries to juggle being a teacher and supporting his beloved club which leaves him lost for words on matchdays.
The climax revolves around the end of the 1988/89 season when a late Michael Thomas goal sealed a 2-0 win as the Gunners ended an 18-year wait to be crowned champions of England.
It’s an enthralling film, and shouldn’t be confused with the remake which starred Jimmy Fallon and Drew Barrymore that focuses on the Boston Red Sox.
The Damned United (2009)
Most soccer fans who were born in the 1970s will have remembered Brian Clough for the job he performed at Nottingham Forest where they ruled the roost at home and abroad.
But they may not have strong memories of his time in charge of Leeds. Well, his reign was short-lived as he lasted just 44 days in the post, and that is where The Damned United comes in. Clough was a figure of hate and his brash personality didn’t sit well with the players or fans. This film cemented a special place in cinematic history.
Although the big screen, and films like The Damned United, have helped to popularise the game, soccer is a huge business all over the world, even from a betting perspective. A glance at bookmaker reviews in Australia shows that soccer is still the dominant option for placing bets, especially at top operators like bet365 and Unibet, as they are both excellent for live betting.
Green Street (2005)
Arguably the grittiest film on this list, Green Factory explores the murky underworld of soccer hooliganism. A wrongfully expelled Harvard graduate gets introduced to violence at football games, and it is compelling from start to finish.
However, it is not one for the faint-hearted as punch-ups and brawls are a regular feature of this film. That said, this film still serves as a good reference point for those wanting to glean insights into hooliganism and fan culture.
Final Thought
Selecting four soccer films to watch was by no means an easy task, as there are so many great ones out there. However, the films we have mentioned on this page warrant special attention, and if you were only to watch four soccer films, then don’t look past the aforementioned.
