Rebecca’s Top Five Soccer Movies
I don't know about you, but we're all getting pretty amped about the Texas High School All-Star Soccer Games. Hosted by Townsquare Media, this event promises to be one of the biggest local sports events in our community.
To get everyone in the mood, I thought we'd pull out a list of some of the best soccer-themed films available. Most of these are available for rent or streaming online, so why not kick back (pun-intended) and enjoy my Top Five Soccer Movies:
- 1
The Damned United
This is a GREAT film, based on David' Pearce's book about the legendary soccer team, Leeds United.Set in the late 60's in England, flick depicts Brian Clough’s ill-fated tenure as manager of Leeds United, the reigning champions. OK, most of it is completely fictionalized with a whole lot of embellishments about the actual team. (prompting one real life soccer coach to sue the film company who made it). Even if you don't love soccer, you'll love the gutwrenching way both soccer fans and players alike struggle to fight for their beloved team.
- 2
Bend It Like Beckham
This movie sparked a revolution stateside with young girls--to this day, the phrase "Bend It Like Beckham" still has meaning among young soccer players today. In the film, the daughter of orthodox Sikh parents rebels against her them by running off with a soccer team. Star Parminder Nagra went on to be featured on shows like "ER" and "Psych". Plus, I bet you didn't know this one of Kiera Knightley's first big films!
- 3
Shaolin Soccer
YOU HAVE TO SEE THIS MOVIE. No seriously. Just stop everything and go see this. Now. (Wait, finish reading my post first, obvi).
What more do I need to tell you about a movie with dialouge like: "When you can kick and egg without breaking it, you can join."
Believe in Shaolin, you guys.
- 4
Greet Street Hooligans
Ever wonder what the world of underground, ultra-violent soccer is really like? This film will answer all your questions. An ex-Harvard student retreats to London, where he becomes introduced to hardcore hooliganism. WARNING: It's pretty graphic and violent. (Trailer NSFW for work due to language)
- 5
She's the Man
Oh you didn't really think we were going to a list of the best soccer films without putting this on here, DID YOU? Anyway, for those of you who aren't familiar with the most awesome movie of all time, before Amanda Bynes became famous for calling people ugly on Twitter, she made The World's Most Perfect Film about soccer. Basically, Amanda masquerades as a dude so she can make the boy's soccer team when the girl's team gets axed by the school.
'She's The Man'. Learn it. Live it. Love it.
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