Having recently rewatched We Are Marshall, I thought about trying to make a top ten list of sports movies...like a best-ever list. I read a few lists that other people compiled, and realized that i haven't watched enough of the "greats" to really qualify as an expert on the subject. So...I rethought the idea, and decided to list my 10 favorite child-friendly sports movies. Most are from my own childhood, but there are a couple that have come out in the last few years that made the list. They aren't necessarily the most artful or penetrating movies...but they are great fun for kids.
10. The Big Green. Classic underdog story. Some hilarious moments...and a rare movie about soccer.
9. Angels in the Outfield. Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Danny Glover, and Christopher Lloyd knock it out of the park. Literally.
8. Little Big League. A brief, wonderful appearance by Jason Robards, and an endearing performance by Luke Edwards as Billy.
7. Rookie of the Year. A freak accident gives a kid the ability to throw 100 mph fastballs. Lots of fun. Suspension of disbelief required.
6. Miracle. The true story of the 1980 USA hockey team of college kids who beat the Russians in the Gold medal game at the Olympics. And it has Kurt Russell. Win, win.
5. Remember the Titans. A movie about so much more than football. It's Denzel at his finest, and a fantastic ensemble cast including, Hayden Panetierre, Will Patton, Kip Pardue, Ryan Gosling, and Kate Bosworth just to name a few.
4. Rudy. The underdog movie of the millenium. I cry every time I watch it. Sean Astin is fantastic.
3. The Mighty Ducks Trilogy. Seriously...you can't pick just one. Emilio Estevez is great as Gordon Bombay. Plus...this movie introduced the world to Joshua Jackson. Thank you, and thank you.
2. Little Giants. Rick Moranis and Ed O'Neill crack skulls. Devon Sawa in the movie roll that sparked as SERIOUS childhood crush. A linebacker named Spike. A guy who blows snot bubbles - unintentionally, and a wide receiver who can't catch. and FUMBLERUSKI! Genius.
1. The Sandlot. If you had any doubt that this would top the list, you're crazy. There is nothing better. If you haven't seen it, and really need to be convinced to watch this movie, here it is: James Earl Jones. And if you still don't want to watch it, I have four words for you: "You're killing me, Smalls!"
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