Who doesn’t appreciate a good soccer film? With its spectacular goals, heart-stopping saves, and fervent fans, it’s the ideal way to unwind when your favorite team isn’t playing. Unfortunately, finding a good soccer movie is challenging. Many times, writers with little knowledge of the sport endorse movies they have yet to see, only for them to be underwhelming.
Here is a list of the top soccer movies you must see in 2023 as you explore Premier League picks. We chose each carefully to ensure you stay engaged. From classics like Escape to Victory to modern favorites like Maradona, there’s something for everyone. So get some popcorn, sit back, and relish these must-see soccer movies.
Escape to Victory: Best Soccer Movie
Looking for a star-studded cast, legendary scenes, and an explosive summation? Find your “Escape to Victory!” This legendary 1981 film follows an allied prisoner-of-war team striving to defeat a powerful German squad in a soccer tournament.
The film keeps you on the edge of your seat thanks to an all-star ensemble that includes Sylvester Stallone, Michael Caine, and Pelé. Not to mention, the film’s climactic climax will have you cheering. So, if you’re seeking the best soccer movie of all time, Escape to Victory is it.
Bend it Like Beckham: Best Girls Soccer Movie
It’s time to kick it up a notch with this 2002 classic. Bend It Like Beckham is about Jess, a young girl from a traditional Indian household who aspires to be a professional soccer player. This film will make you laugh and cry with its many heartwarming moments.
Furthermore, the film’s compelling message about pursuing one’s aspirations despite hurdles is sure to resonate with viewers. So if you’re looking for something to motivate you and your girls, Bend it Like Beckham is the one for you.
Diego Maradona: Best Soccer Documentary
Asif Kapadia’s Diego Maradona is just the perfect piece of soccer cinema. It chronicles the rise and fall of Argentine icon Diego Maradona as he dominates the football world. This documentary is an essential must-see, with tons of incredible footage and never-before-seen interviews.
It leaves you with a more profound respect for the game and one of its best players. So if you’re searching for something to immerse you in the depths of soccer culture, here is your fix.
She’s The Man: Best Teen Comedy Soccer Movie
We all love something cheesy and light-hearted to watch now and then, and She’s The Man is just the movie for it. Viola, an adolescent girl, dresses as her twin brother, Sebastian, to join the guys’ soccer team at his new school in this 2006 teen comedy.
The film stars Channing Tatum and Amanda Bynes, who will have you giggling throughout. Besides, Vinnie Jones, Laura Ramsey, and David Cross appear in supporting parts, making this film a must-see. So if you want to exercise your belly and throat muscles, here’s a bundle of teen laughs.
The Big Green: Best Soccer Movie for Kids
Which dad doesn’t love a good, healthy fight with mummy? And what better way to do so that having all the kids fall in love with soccer? The Big Green is the perfect movie for that. This 1995 Disney classic follows a group of unlikely kids forming a soccer team to try and save their school.
This movie will entertain the whole family with plenty of family-friendly jokes, a heartwarming story, and a great message about teamwork. If you need an entertaining movie to watch with the kids, The Big Green is the one for you.
Winding Up
There’s sure a plethora of soccer movies to binge for months. Even our team couldn’t decide what to leave. So, if these top five soccer movies aren’t enough to sate your appetite, here’s a bunch of honorable mentions to keep the fun going:
Pele (You aren’t a soccer fan if you know nothing about the best soccer player of all time. So, dive into this 2021 documentary.)
The Damned United (An excellent British comedy-drama about Brian Clough’s doomed 44 days as the coach of Leeds United)
Green Street Hooligans (The rise and fall of a young man in the world of football hooliganism)
Looking for Eric (This offbeat comedy follows a Manchester postman in his quest to find the legendary footballer Eric Cantona)
Goal: The Dream Begins (The story of a Mexican gardener who dreams of becoming a professional soccer player)
Now, let the fun begin.
