Sport captivates the world. Billions enjoy watching sports, millions
actively participate, and many bet on their favourite sports at sites like
22Bet. It's no surprise
then that so many filmmakers are drawn to sports and all the potential drama
of underdog stories. Here are three essential sports movies coming to
screens this year.
Heavyweight
As its title suggests, Heavyweight is set in the world of boxing. However,
it's a rare boxing movie that never actually takes us into the ring. Instead
the drama plays out entirely in the locker room as young boxer Derek (Jordan Bolger) prepares for the biggest fight of his career. As
the clock ticks down to the big fight, Derek is racked with personal
demons as he questions whether he has earned this opportunity.
Bang Bang
Another boxing movie, but tis one features a fighter who has left his
pugilism days behind him. Tim Blake Nelson delivers a knockout performance
as Bernard "Bang Bang" Rozyski, a once successful boxer who harbours
bitterness over his biggest fight being pulled at the last minute. When
Bernard is left in charge of his estranged grandson, he sees a chance at a
second shot, coaching the youngster to become Detroit's next great
boxer.
Eephus
Baseball is the sport of choice for this drama. Rather than focusing on
the professional league, this one is set over the course of an amateur
"beer league" game. With their favourite pitch set to be bulldozed, two
teams of out of shape middle-aged men gather for one final game, playing
until the sun goes down as they try to hang onto the memories tied into
their love of the game.