Football has always been the most popular sport globally, and cinema is also a
favourite form of entertainment for many people. So, when films and TV series
revolve around football, they naturally attract the attention of both football
and film fans. At Goal Reader Blog, Here we're bringing you our pick of
the top five football films. So, grab your popcorn and let's kick off!
Pele: Birth of a Legend
One of the greatest football icons, Brazil’s Pele, enjoys immense popularity
in the football world. However, the current generation lacks sufficient
knowledge about the details of Pele’s career.
Directed by the talented Zimbalist brothers, Jeff and Michael, the film
highlights the most important moments in the life of this football legend.
The film portrays Pele's journey, from his humble beginnings in a poor
neighbourhood in Brazil to his rise as a global football superstar.
It also captures the human side of Pele’s life, such as his close relationship
with his father, showing both his personal and professional life on and off
the pitch.
United
This one's a real tear-jerker for British football fans, focusing on the
heart-wrenching Munich air disaster. If you’re a Manchester United fan, you’re
surely familiar with this tragedy.
The film meticulously details the 1958 disaster, which claimed the lives of
nearly half of Manchester United’s first team. Its well-paced narrative gives
viewers the feeling that they are witnessing the catastrophe firsthand.
It paints a vivid picture of United's glory days in the 50s, then plunges into
the aftermath of the disaster. You'll see how the catastrophe rocked Old
Trafford to its core, and how the Red Devils managed to rise from the ashes.
Goal: The Dream Begins
The first part of the Goal trilogy, “The Dream Begins,” might sound like a
typical title, but it’s actually one of the best football-related films,
offering an exhilarating mix of football and cinema.
FIFA played a significant role in the success of this film, allowing the
production team to use some of the biggest football clubs and stars in the
game.
The story follows a young man who emigrates from Mexico to the United States.
Thanks to his football talent, he meets someone who believes in him, which
helps him turn his difficult life full of struggles into one filled with
success and achievements—all due to his skills on the football pitch.
The Damned United
Here's one that bucks the trend - instead of focusing on a player, The Damned
United puts the gaffer in the spotlight. It's based on one of the most
colorful characters to ever grace the touchline in English football.The film
charts the journey of a manager who takes the reins at a struggling side and
transforms them into title contenders. It's a masterclass in man-management,
showing how attention to detail and motivational skills can turn a bunch of
also-rans into world-beaters.If you've ever fancied yourself as the next Pep
Guardiola or you're just curious about what makes a top manager tick, this
one's right up your street.
Green Street
So far, we've introduced films about players and managers. Now, it’s time to
talk about a film centred on football fans—Green Street.
This film doesn’t focus on ordinary fans but on a special group known for
their fierce loyalty to their teams—the ultras.
The film delves into the activities of these ultra groups, especially around
elite European clubs like Manchester United, showing what they do before,
during, and after matches. It also explores the strong bonds between group
members, whose shared passion for their team strengthens their friendships in
events that make you feel like you’re alongside them in the British streets.
If you’re a die-hard fan of your hometown team, this film is for you, as it
reflects the lengths fans go to support their favourite club.