The competitive nature, excitement, relentless pace, and the insatiable drive to win in the sports world, along with the personal lives of players that often pique curiosity, are brought to screens through various documentaries. Some of these focus on the game itself, providing tips for success in that field, while others delve into the intriguing lives of famous stars. In this article, you will find a selection of the most enjoyable and captivating sports documentaries.
The Last Dance
The Last Dance chronicles the 1997-1998 season of the Chicago Bulls, one of the legendary teams in basketball history, famous for their monumental victories. The documentary focuses not only on the team’s superstar Michael Jordan’s career and passion for basketball but also reflects on the challenges, setbacks, rebirths, and the secrets of teamwork that paved the way for the Bulls’ sixth NBA championship. It vividly presents the inner world of a basketball team, showcasing the realities that unfold behind the scenes in a raw and compelling manner. This ten-episode documentary flows with a series-like rhythm and includes some tabloid elements as well.
Formula 1: Drive to Survive
This British-made documentary focuses on one of the most followed motorsports, Formula 1. As a mini-documentary series, Formula 1: Drive to Survive showcases the daily lives of Formula 1 teams, their preparations for races, incidents that occur during competitions, and the struggles they face. Covering the events of the 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021 seasons, this documentary proves to be highly entertaining for fans of this thrilling and adrenaline-fueled sport.
Free Solo
Produced by award-winning filmmaker E. Chai Vasarhelyi (“MERU”) and world-renowned photographer and climber Jimmy Chin, this National Geographic documentary focuses on the life of rock climber Alex Honnold. It explores how this extreme sport is practiced, the preparation for climbs, and the excitement, fear, and adrenaline experienced during ascents. Honnold challenges nature and life itself as he climbs the sheer rock faces of Yosemite National Park without the use of ropes. The documentary captures both the physical and mental aspects of free climbing and presents a portrait of a highly accomplished athlete.
Sunderland ‘Til I Die
Premiering on December 14, 2018, Sunderland ‘Til I Die focuses on the behind-the-scenes aspects of the football world, particularly the Sunderland team following their relegation from England’s top Premier League. This documentary captures the team’s journey to recover, showcasing the realities of the 2017-2018 season, including the emotions experienced after wins and losses, as well as the drive and determination seen in the locker room and on the field during this pivotal first season under Stewart Donald’s ownership.
When We Were Kings
This documentary highlights the unseen background of boxing, focusing on the championship match between champion George Foreman and legendary Muhammad Ali. Directed by Leon Gast, it recounts the title fight held in Zaire in 1974, exploring the challenges of the sport, what transpired behind the scenes, and the athletes’ lives centered around strength and ambition.
Undefeated
Undefeated is one of the finest documentaries focused on American football, centering on the Manassas Tigers team. Players are recruited to train at academically successful schools for a fee, but a transformative experience occurs when Coach Bill Courtney arrives. The documentary beautifully portrays the spirit of teamwork inherent in American football, emphasizing themes of ambition, perseverance, and faith. Directed by Dan Lindsay and TJ Martin, Undefeated was released in 2011.
Murderball
Murderball focuses on the competition and daily lives of Paralympic athletes, specifically rugby players confined to wheelchairs. This compelling documentary follows a group of players who are fiercely determined to chase gold medals, highlighting the daily life of the U.S. Quad Rugby Team as they compete in the 2002 World Championship and the 2004 Paralympic Games in Athens. It won the Audience Award at the 2005 Sundance Film Festival.
Pele
This documentary narrates the life story of Pele, one of the greatest football players in history who etched his name in gold in the annals of sports. Rising from the impoverished neighborhoods of Sao Paulo to stardom, Pele reflects on his journey while lamenting his country’s loss in the 1950 World Cup final against Uruguay. The film, featuring rare archival footage, illustrates how a boy transforms into a hero. It also includes interviews with Pele’s former teammates such as Zagallo, Jairzinho, and Rivellino.
Senna
This documentary tells the story of Ayrton Senna, undoubtedly one of the greatest drivers in Formula 1 history, whose legacy is defined not just by his achievements but also by his personal life and a career cut short by a tragic accident. The Brazilian racing legend, who was a three-time Formula 1 champion, became one of the world’s biggest stars. The film captures Senna’s journey from the mid-80s until his fatal accident in 1994, highlighting his fierce rivalry with his strongest competitor, French World Champion Alain Prost.
