If you’re a sports enthusiast seeking some motivation, look no further than Disney+. The streaming service now features a collection of the finest true-story American sports movies that are sure to captivate you. These films are brimming with exhilarating moments and gripping narratives, making them a must-see for any sports lover. Check out our top picks for the ten most compelling sports movies currently available on Disney Plus.
10. “Secretariat” (2010) :
IMDb Rating: 7.2/10 | Metascore: 61 | CinemaScore: A
Diane Lane stars in “Secretariat,” a film based on the true story of Penny Chenery Tweedy, who owned the legendary racehorse Secretariat. The movie chronicles Secretariat’s incredible journey to fame, including his historic Triple Crown win in 1973. One of the most unforgettable moments of the film is Secretariat’s astounding 31-length victory at the Belmont Stakes, which set a world record that still stands today. This achievement earned him the moniker “Big Red” and cemented his place as one of the greatest racehorses in history.
“Secretariat” also features exceptional performances by John Malkovich as Lucien Laurin and Dylan Walsh as Jack Tweedy. This uplifting movie, directed by Randall Wallace and with music by Nick Glennie-Smith, is a thrilling and heartwarming tribute to an extraordinary horse. It received an A CinemaScore from audiences, making it one of the most highly-rated films in Disney+’s sports collection.
9. The Rookie :
IMDb Rating: 6.9/10 | Metascore: 72 | CinemaScore: A
“The Rookie” is a movie that tells the incredible story of Jimmy Morris, a high school teacher and baseball coach from Texas who accomplished his lifelong dream of playing in the major leagues. The primary aim of his bet with his team was to motivate them to win a district championship, but it worked better than expected.
Although he did not expect to get very far in the tryouts, Jimmy discovers that he has consistently been pitching 98 mph fastballs, impressing the scouts. He is picked up by a AAA baseball club and, just when he is about to quit, he is called up to play for the Tampa Bay Devilrays.
The film, directed by John Lee Hancock and starring Dennis Quaid as Jim Morris, features a talented supporting cast, including Rachel Griffiths, Jay Hernandez, and Brian Cox. With an impressive score of 72% on Metacritic and multiple awards, including Best Sports Movie at the 2002 ESPY Awards, “The Rookie” is undoubtedly one of the greatest Disney sports films.
8. “Rise” (2022)
IMDb Rating: 7.0/10 | Metascore: 74
“Rise” is a sports drama based on the inspiring true story of Giannis, Thanasis, and Kostas Antetokounmpo, three brothers of Nigerian-Greek descent who rose from poverty in Greece to become NBA superstars. The film depicts the challenges they encountered both on and off the basketball court as they pursued their dreams of making it as professional basketball players.
Directed by Akin Omotoso, “Rise” features talented newcomers Uche Agada, Ral Agada, and Jaden Osimuwa portraying the primary roles of the three brothers who all went on to win NBA championships. The film also includes notable actors Elijah Shomanke, Yetide Badaki, and Dayo Okeniyi playing supporting family roles.
“Rise” has received a commendable 74% rating on Metacritic and has been nominated for Best Original Score by the HMMA. With its inspirational storyline and a talented cast, “Rise” is definitely among the top sports movies available on Disney+.
7. “The Greatest Game Ever Played” (2005)
IMDb Rating: 7.4/10 | Metascore: 55 | CinemaScore: A
This inspiring Disney Channel original movie is based on the true story of Francis Ouimet, an amateur golfer who defeated the reigning British champion in a thrilling match at the 1913 U.S. Open. The film chronicles Ouimet’s journey from being a caddy to becoming a legendary golfer, inspiring viewers as they witness his rise to greatness against the odds.
Adapted from Mark Frost’s book “The Greatest Game Ever Played: Harry Vardon, Francis Ouimet, and the Birth of Modern Golf,” the movie stars Shia LaBeouf as Francis Ouimet, and also features Stephen Dillane as professional golfer Harry Vardon, and Elias Koteas as Francis’ disapproving father, Arthur Ouimet.
Set in a time when golf was considered a sport for the wealthy elite, Ouimet, who came from a working-class family, faced many obstacles and was not taken seriously by the golfing establishment. However, with his determination, talent, and the support of his caddy Eddie Lowery, played by Josh Flitter, Ouimet qualifies for the US Open and emerges victorious.
The movie was nominated for Best Sports Movie at the 2006 ESPY Awards, received an A CinemaScore, and holds a respectable 55% rating on Metacritic, making it one of the highest-rated sports films on Disney+.
6. “McFarland, USA” (2015)
IMDb Rating: 7.4/10 | Metascore: 60 | CinemaScore: A
The movie “McFarland, USA” tells the inspiring story of a high school cross-country team in the mostly Latino town of McFarland, California. Despite the students and their families primarily being migrant farm workers facing discrimination and limited opportunities, they have a talent for running that Coach White sees potential in. The film follows their journey to becoming state champions, showcasing the challenges they face and the hard work and belief in themselves that drives them forward.
Kevin Costner stars as Coach Jim White, who moves his family to McFarland and takes on the role of high school teacher and coach. Maria Bello also stars as Cheryl White, with Ramiro Rodriguez playing Danny Diaz and Carlos Pratts portraying Thomas Valles. Valles, a troubled young man with familial difficulties, learns to channel his energy into running under Coach White’s guidance and becomes an integral member of the team.
Directed by Niki Caro, “McFarland, USA” has received praise from both critics and audiences. It earned an impressive A CinemaScore and a solid 60% on Metacritic, and was even awarded Best Picture at the 2015 Imagen Foundation Awards. Now available for streaming on Disney Plus, it is one of the top sports movies to watch.
5. “Invincible” (2006)
IMDb Rating: 7.0/10 | Metascore: 63 | CinemaScore: A-
In 1976, Philadelphia bartender Vince Papale’s life changed dramatically when new coach Dick Vermeil held an open tryout for the Philadelphia Eagles. The movie “Invincible” tells the story of Papale’s remarkable journey from an ordinary guy to a professional football player, as he fights to keep his spot on the team.
Mark Wahlberg stars as Vince, a broke, recently divorced Eagles fan who is determined to turn his life around and become the oldest walk-on in NFL team history. Directed by Ericson Core, the film also features Elizabeth Banks as Janet, Michael Rispoli as Max, Kevin Conway as Frank Papale, and Greg Kinnear as Coach Dick Vermeil.
“Invincible” has received high praise from viewers and critics alike. With an A- CinemaScore and a Metacritic rating of 63%, it has become one of the most celebrated sports films on Disney Plus to date. The movie is sure to make viewers cheer as they watch Papale’s inspiring journey to achieve his dreams.
4. “Glory Road” (2006) :
IMDb Rating: 7.2/10 | Metascore: 58 | CinemaScore: A
“Glory Road” is a powerful drama that tells the remarkable true story of the 1966 Texas Western basketball team from El Paso. The team made history by having an all-black starting lineup and overcoming discrimination to win a collegiate national championship in their first NCAA tournament. The movie portrays their journey as they confront adversity both on and off the court.
Directed by James Gartner, “Glory Road” stars Josh Lucas as Coach Don Haskins, who is determined to coach NCAA basketball, find and play the best players, and win championships. The film features Derek Luke as Bobby Joe Hill, Austin Nichols as Jerry Armstrong, Mehcad Brooks as Harry Flournoy, Jon Voight as Kentucky Coach Adolph Rupp, and Al Shearer as Nevil Shed.
“Glory Road” was well-received by both critics and audiences, earning an A CinemaScore and a decent 58% score on Metacritic. It also won several awards, including Best Sports Movie at the 2006 ESPY Awards. The film’s inspiring story and excellent cast make it a must-watch for fans of sports movies.
3. “Seabiscuit” (2003)
IMDb Rating: 7.3/10 | Metascore: 72 | CinemaScore: A
The biographical drama “Seabiscuit” is a remarkable story about an underdog racehorse who defied the odds and became a champion. Directed by Gary Ross, the movie is based on the book “Seabiscuit: An American Legend” by Laura Hillenbrand.
Set during the Great Depression, the film follows the lives of three men who become intertwined with Seabiscuit in a seemingly impossible alliance. Tobey Maguire stars as Canadian jockey John “Red” Pollard, whose fortunes change for the better when he bonds with the temperamental Seabiscuit. Jeff Bridges portrays Charles Howard, a wealthy businessman who is searching for a new purpose in life after losing his son in a car accident and finds it in horseracing. Chris Cooper plays Tom Smith, Seabiscuit’s trainer, who has a deep understanding of horses and finds the perfect jockey in Red Pollard.
Critics and audiences lauded the film, giving it an A CinemaScore and a 72% rating on Metacritic, making it one of Disney+’s highest-rated sports movies. “Seabiscuit” won numerous awards, including Best Motion Picture at the 2004 Satellite Awards.
2. “Miracle” (2004)
IMDb Rating: 7.4/10 | Metascore: 68 | CinemaScore: A
Based on a true story, this inspiring drama tells the tale of the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team, made up of amateur and college players who stunned the world by defeating the seemingly invincible Soviet Union and winning the gold medal.
Directed by Gavin O’Connor, “Miracle” stars Kurt Russell as Coach Herb Brooks, whose ambition from the outset was to lead a team to an Olympic gold medal, having been the last player cut from the 1960 Winter Olympics hockey team. Choosing the “right” players and forging them into a cohesive unit that could triumph over the Soviets was no easy feat, particularly given that it took some time for the players to understand who they were representing. However, once they grasped the significance of the opportunity, Brooks’ strategy was to beat the Soviets at their own game and “shove it right back in their face.”
Both critics and audiences applauded the film, with a CinemaScore of A and a 79% rating on Metacritic. The movie also won the ESPY Award for Best Sports Movie in 2005.
Coach Herb Brooks makes a brilliant move by scheduling an exhibition game against the Soviets before the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid. As any team sports fan knows, it’s challenging to beat the same team twice in one season since the opponent knows your game plan and what to expect.
Starring Noah Emmerich as Assistant Coach Craig Patrick, Nathan West as Left Wing Rob McClanahan, Eddie Cahill as Goalie Jim Craig, Patrick O’Brien Demsey as Team Captain and Left Wing Mike Eruzione, and Michael Mantenuto as Defender Jack O’Callahan, “Miracle” depicts the 1980 U.S. hockey team’s historic win against the seemingly unbeatable Soviet Union to take home the gold medal.
The movie also features Patricia Clarkson as Patti Brooks, Sean McCann as Walter Bush, and Kenneth Welsh as Doc Nagobads in supporting roles.
The film received critical acclaim and was loved by audiences, receiving an A CinemaScore. It holds a respectable 68% rating on Metacritic and won several awards, including Best Sports Movie at the 2004 ESPY Awards. In our opinion, it’s one of the greatest sports movies streaming on Disney+.
1. “Remember the Titans” (2000)
IMDb Rating: 7.8/10 | Metascore: 48 | CinemaScore: A+
This sports drama film is based on the true story of a high school football team from Alexandria, Virginia in the 1970s. The team, known as the Titans, was forced to integrate during desegregation and the movie follows their journey to become state champions as they overcome their biases and differences to connect and become a strong team.
Directed by Boaz Yakin, “Remember the Titans” stars Denzel Washington as Coach Herman Boone, who brings the team together with his determination and leadership. The cast also includes Will Patton as Coach Bill Yoast, Wood Harris as Julius Campbell (plays DE), Ryan Hurst as Gerry Bertier (plays DE), Donald Faison as Petey Jones (plays RB/DB), Craig Kirkwood as Jerry ‘Rev’ Harris (plays QB), and Ryan Gosling as Alan Bosley (plays DB).
Supporting roles include Kate Bosworth as Gerry Bertier’s girlfriend and Hayden Panettiere as Coach Yoast’s daughter, who’s a passionate football fan.
The film is not just about sports, but also shows the players, like Julius Campbell and Gerry Bertier, becoming “brothers” despite their initial animosity towards each other. The team learns that being a part of something bigger than themselves is more important than winning games.
“Remember the Titans” was well-received by audiences and received an A+ CinemaScore. Despite its low 48% rating on Metacritic, it won several awards, including Best Sports Movie at the 2001 ESPY Awards. It is considered one of the best sports movies available to stream on Disney+.
Whether you’re a sports fan or just looking for an inspirational movie, these films are sure to motivate you with their uplifting message. From the story of an overlooked racehorse, to an amateur golfer, and a high school football team, each of these sports movies on Disney+ is sure to inspire viewers with the power of hard work and determination.
