With Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson stepping into a dramatic role as MMA legend Mark Kerr in the upcoming 2025 film `The Smashing Machine`, it`s a great time to reflect on the sports movies that have captured the public`s imagination. We delve into the most frequently searched sports films in the United States, compiled using Google Trends data available since 2004. Here’s a rundown of the screen stories that resonate most with American audiences:
Top 10 Most Searched Sports Movies:
1. `Cars`
The 2006 Pixar animated film, `Cars`, proved a massive success across all demographics, earning $462 million globally. The story follows Lightning McQueen, a promising rookie race car voiced by Owen Wilson, who finds himself marooned in a forgotten town. There, he discovers that true victory extends beyond the finish line. Nearly two decades post-release, `Cars` continues its popularity, with its sequels and the proliferation of internet memes keeping its charm alive for new generations. The film beautifully portrays Lightning McQueen connecting with characters embodying the spirit of stock car racing, forming a bond reminiscent of his mentor, Doc Hudson.
2. `Rocky`
`Rocky` stands as the quintessential underdog narrative. The 1976 film introduces Rocky Balboa, a humble Philadelphia boxer played by Sylvester Stallone, who unexpectedly receives a shot at the world heavyweight championship. This iconic movie launched what is arguably the most successful sports film franchise ever, inspiring numerous spin-offs, including the recent `Creed` series, decades after its initial release.
3. `Space Jam`
Released during Michael Jordan`s peak fame, `Space Jam` (1996) saw the basketball icon join forces with the Looney Tunes in a unique live-action and animated hybrid. The plot centers on the Looney Tunes, whose freedom depends on defeating the Monstars – aliens who have stolen the talents of NBA stars like Charles Barkley and Patrick Ewing. Jordan`s recruitment leads to an epic basketball showdown. The film earned $231 million globally and is beloved for its entertaining plot and memorable soundtrack, even inspiring a 2021 sequel, `Space Jam: A New Legacy`, starring LeBron James.
4. `The Karate Kid`
The 1984 classic `The Karate Kid` tells the story of a teenager who, after moving to a new area, finds mentorship in a martial arts master. Through rigorous karate training, he learns to defend himself against bullies. This highly successful film spawned three sequels, a 2010 remake, and the popular contemporary TV series `Cobra Kai`.
5. `The Sandlot`
Despite a modest box office of $32.4 million, `The Sandlot` (1993) has achieved cult classic status and remains a widely discussed film over three decades later. Set in the summer of 1962, it chronicles the adventures of a group of young boys united by their love for baseball.
6. `Creed`
Serving as a contemporary spin-off almost a decade after the conclusion of the main `Rocky` series, `Creed` reintroduces Sylvester Stallone as Balboa, now a mentor to Adonis Johnson (Michael B. Jordan), the son of his former rival and friend, Apollo Creed. The film was a global success, earning $174 million and leading to two sequels.
7. `Rocky Balboa`
The 2006 film `Rocky Balboa` marks the final installment of the original `Rocky` saga, set three decades after the first movie. Sylvester Stallone`s character, Balboa, returns from retirement for a final bout against the current heavyweight champion, Mason `The Line` Dixon (Antonio Tarver). The film generated significant anticipation due to a 16-year hiatus in the franchise, ultimately achieving a worldwide gross of $156 million.
8. `The Blind Side`
The Oscar-winning film `The Blind Side` (2009) depicts the journey of Michael Oher, a homeless youth who purportedly transforms into an All-American football player and NFL first-round draft pick with the assistance of his adoptive family. While the movie grossed $309 million, recent events reveal a darker truth: Oher later alleged that the Tuohy family never formally adopted him, instead manipulating him into a conservatorship for their financial benefit, a conservatorship which a judge recently terminated.
9. `Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby`
In 2006, Will Ferrell-led comedies were a box-office guarantee, and `Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby` continued this trend, pulling in $163 million. This film follows NASCAR`s top driver, Ricky Bobby (Ferrell), and his loyal teammate, Cal Naughton Jr. (John C. Reilly), whose dominance is challenged by the arrival of a French Formula One rival (Sacha Baron Cohen).
10. `Remember the Titans`
`Remember the Titans` (2000) is based on the compelling true story of Herman Boone (Denzel Washington) and his high school football team in Virginia. The film depicts their struggle to unite after the local school board mandates the integration of an all-white school with an all-Black school. Grossing $137 million worldwide, it has since become an enduring favorite among sports film enthusiasts.
Note: Search data compiled using Google Trends, available since 2004.
Rupert Hollis