5 Great Sports Movies About Black Athletes

Sport has always been more than just games and competitions. It's a real driver of progress, with athletes fighting not only to win, but also for recognition, respect and social change. When these powerful stories make their way to our screens, this is where the real magic happens. They become something even more profound, and make us all witnesses to the human spirit and determination.

When it comes to stories about Black athletes, these films take on an even deeper significance. Beyond just showcasing athletic excellence, they also highlight the broader fight of people who faced systemic oppression in pursuit of their dreams.

We have a list of 5 remarkable films that celebrate the extraordinary stories of Black athletes and motivate viewers to go fight for their dreams — even if they’re not exactly connected with sports.

Cool Runnings (1993): Based on True Events Olympic Story

Cool Runnings brings warmth and humor to the story of four athletes pursuing their Winter Olympics dreams, despite never even seeing winter! Based on a true story that captured the world's imagination, the movie proves that dreams don't have any limits.

The film follows four Jamaican athletes who dare to dream the impossible: competing in bobsledding at the Winter Olympics (and yes, as we've already mentioned, they've never even seen snow). Under the guidance of a former champion seeking his own redemption, they begin their story that challenges not just their athletic abilities, but their determination and self-belief.

Cool Runnings is special in its perfect blend of humor and heart. The chemistry between the cast members is infectious, and the film's signature catchphrases ("Sanka, ya dead?" "Ya mon!") have become part of pop culture.

To see how these four will do in the bobsledding competition, watch Cool Runnings on Amazon Prime, Apple TV+ or Disney+.

The Express (2008): Breaking Barriers in College Football

Some stories need to be told to remind us how far we've come and how far we still need to go. The Express brings to life the powerful story of Ernie Davis (played by talented Rob Brown), a name that should be known to everyone.

Dennis Quaid and Rob Brown put on remarkable performances that give this biographical drama authenticity and emotional depth.

Rising from poverty, Davis becomes a sensation at Syracuse University's football program. Under Coach Ben Schwartzwalder's mentorship, he achieves the impossible, surpassing even the records of the legendary Jim Brown. In 1961, he became the first black athlete to win the prestigious Heisman Trophy, but, you guessed it, his story doesn't end there.

This is a must-watch for sports fans and history buffs alike. You can catch The Express on Amazon Prime or Apple TV+.

The Hurricane (1999): A Fight Beyond the Boxing Ring

The Hurricane tells us the true story of boxer Rubin “Hurricane” Carter, brilliantly played by Denzel Washington (this role is truly one of his strongest performances).

At the peak of his boxing career, Carter's life takes a disastrous turn when he and John Artis are wrongfully convicted of a murder in New Jersey. Sentenced to three life terms, Carter refuses to be defeated by a system rigged against him, fighting for justice from behind bars.

Washington created, what we can without a doubt call, an unforgettable portrait of a man who didn't let injustice determine how his life played out.

Watch The Hurricane on Amazon Prime and Apple TV+.

King Richard (2021): Building a Legacy

Behind every great athlete stands a loving and caring parent. Kind Richard is exactly about that.

The movie follows the story of Richard Williams, the man who shaped two of the greatest athletes in the history of tennis, Venus and Serena Williams. The story is set in Compton, California, and tells the story of Richard's ambitious plan to turn his daughters into tennis champions (and oh boy, did he succeed!)

Will Smith delivers a great performance as Richard Williams. The movie beautifully shows how extraordinary achievements require extraordinary dedication not only from the athletes themselves, but from their families as well.

You can watch King Richard on Amazon Prime or Apple TV+.

Remember the Titans (2000): Coming Together

In a list of great sports films, Remember the Titans is a must-watch, and we just couldn't let you go without mentioning it.

The film, set in 1971, is about the uneasy process of merging a black and white high school through their soccer program. Coach Herman Boone (Denzel Washington) steps in as the new team's leader and has to overcome racial tensions, personal prejudice and the demand to win.

What takes Remember the Titans to a new level, beyond the usual sports movie, is its honest portrayal of how sports can bridge differences and transform society.

If you wanna know how Coach Boone will overcome all these challenges, catch Remember the Titans on Amazon Prime, Apple TV+ or Disney+.