Sports movies often get a bad rap. They are criticized for being formulaic and predictable, with one-dimensional characters played by athletes, who are not natural actors. That being said, the true classics of sports movies should not be overlooked — and this is doubly true of basketball movies. Here are five of the most notable, well-made or otherwise memorable basketball movies.
No. 5: “Teen Wolf”
Some may consider this an odd way to start off the list, but look past the admittedly campy premise and a poignant coming-of-age story can be found. Michael J. Fox plays Scott Howard, a high-school loser who finds popularity and young love when he starts transforming into a werewolf, which in turn makes him a basketball star. But Scott soon experiences the dark side of his hairy fame and must win over his sweetheart — and save his struggling team — as a mere human.
It sounds almost unwatchable, but there are some genuinely touching moments in this film. Scott’s quest for love is relatably embarrassing to many high school boys, and the basketball scenes — while far from realistic — are always entertaining. Forget “Back to the Future” — this was Fox’s role of a lifetime.
No. 4: “Glory Road”
This is definitely one of basketball’s more formulaic movies, but still a classic dramatization of one of the sport’s most historic moments. Josh Lucas is earnest if not remarkable in his role as Don Haskins, the coach of the first NCAA basketball team to have an all-black starting five. He worked young recruits into shape throughout a plot rife with training montages, but they are enjoyable nonetheless.
The story follows the traditional “insurmountable odds” arc, leading the viewer to guess the ending even if it’s not already known from history. But more than anything else, “Glory Road” proves that a story doesn’t have to shock or surprise if it is full of heart and timeless messages.
No. 3: “He Got Game”
“He Got Game” is perhaps one of Spike Lee’s most complex films, abandoning basic plot structures of sports movies and focusing on the characters. Denzel Washington is superb in the role of Jake Shuttlesworth, a convict who might be able to get out of prison early if he can convince his son, Jesus — played by an impressive Ray Allen — to play basketball for a certain school. Add a love interest in the form of an abused prostitute played by Milla Jovovich, and “He Got Game” makes for a convoluted but gripping sports drama.
No. 2: “Hoosiers”
Talk about formulas — “Hoosiers” is the classic underdog story to a tee, but that doesn’t stop it from being intensely watchable. This fan favorite stars Gene Hackman as Norman Dale in the typical role of flawed but passionate coach — a newcomer charged with the task of whipping a group of talented but uninspired players into star athletes.
The story isn’t worth repeating, as it’s been told many times. Rather, what sets “Hoosiers” apart from the crowd is the incredible performances. Hackman’s character is at times frustrating, but it is always relatable and genuine. Other notable characters are played by Barbara Hershey and Dennis Hopper — both impressive in their respective roles as a protective mother figure and a washed-up drunk. By the time the end credits roll and the inevitable ending has taken place, the most lasting impressions are delivered by these three stars.
No. 1: “Space Jam”
This probably isn’t a popular opinion. Though a step up from “Teen Wolf,” not everyone can appreciate “Space Jam” for the timeless classic that it is. That being said, every second of this film — from “Michael’s Secret Stuff” to what is arguably Bill Murray’s best cameo — is a work of art.
“Space Jam” asks an important question — how can the formula of the underdog story be spiced up? The answer the film provides was a bold one, coming in the form of anthropomorphic cartoon characters, doping aliens and — of course — Michael Jordan. It’s a wacky plot and a little silly, but above all else, it’s an inspiring good time.
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