Sports and films have been able to crossover with each other incredibly successfully. It is no real surprise that they have in truth, as both are prevalent entertainment mediums, and many are always looking for the best ways to be kept entertained.
Sports movies can provide stories that much of the world’s population can understand and potentially relate to, with most having played the sport that has been depicted or having experiences of another sport that provides some of the same emotions and memories. This type of movie can also provide viewers opportunities to feel good as they usually focus on a positive story and can often leave others inspired, especially if they follow a true story.
Why American Football is used in movies
American football has always been one of the most popular sports worldwide. Despite being played traditionally in North America, the sport has gained appeal across Europe in recent decades, with its popularity having exploded in locations such as the UK and Germany.
The NFL has recently expanded its markets globally, with games being held regularly in the UK and Germany in recent years. At the same time, marketing has entered new countries to enhance the game’s popularity.
The exposure that the game has managed to capture a worldwide audience, is evident with each Super Bowl that is held. The NFL’s main spectacle often attracts viewing figures of more than 100 million. The event has become much more than just the football played on the field for so many.
Many like to watch the halftime show, as the world’s biggest musical acts usually provide a once-in-a-lifetime show-stopping performance. These shows can often feature special guest appearances or visuals and aesthetics that need to be seen to be believed. Elsewhere, many like to tune in and watch the Super Bowl because it gives them the opportunity to place sports bets on the contest. Wagering online has continued to grow across North America in recent years. With the widespread availability of markets, including NFL lines, punters have been able to enhance their American football experiences.
Movie directors may have capitalized on using football as a theme for their production before the introduction of betting. Still, the emotions that can be experienced from both highlight why the sport has become a major hit on the big screen.
Which Eight Football Films Should You Watch During The NFL Season?
With the 2023 NFL football season set to commence on September 7, there is not long to go until the beginning of the new season. Although there is only a short wait, those who live and breathe football will not be able to wait and will want to fill their time with activities that are football-themed.
Films about the sport are among the best thing to do. But what are the eight best titles available to watch? In no particular order, these are some of those that can be highly recommended…
- The Longest Yard
- The Blind Side
- The Waterboy
- Friday Night Lights
- Draft Day
- Remember The Titans
- Invincible
- Varsity Blues
What Makes These Eight Films The Best?
You might be wondering what makes the eight films mentioned above among the best to watch, especially as there are so many available. Each of them, though, can provide a different way to enjoy football, each providing a different experience.
Some are based on true stories (‘The Blind Side’ and ‘Invincible’) which can help viewers feel good and understand the positive impact that the sport can have on an individual and those around them. Others, such as ‘The Longest Yard,’ can be taken light-heartedly and give audiences the chance to have a funny viewing experience. ‘Varsity Blues’ and ‘The Waterboy’ can be great films for those who want to follow an underdog story and give them something to cheer on while watching.
Final Thoughts
In truth, football films can appeal to a wide range of viewer tastes and demands, which is perhaps why directors have continually used the sport as a theme for the movies they create. With the sport continuing to grow in popularity in other parts of the world, it would not be a surprise if we saw more football-themed box office hits in the future.