20 Sports Documentaries You Must See Before You Die
We look at some of the most captivating stories to ever come from the world of sports.
Ask any true sports fan about some of their most beloved memories and they'll more than likely want to reminisce about their favourite team or player achieving something great or even the specific sport they love. There's just something about a competitive game and the various characters involved in it that connects with people on a deep level.
As fans, we only really get to see the finished product as the action unfolds in front us. While those certainly yield unforgettable moments, our access to sports documentaries has proven that the real gold happens behind the scenes. Whether these films are celebrating the greatness of these sports stars or condemning them for their on or off-field actions, the spotlight that is shone on these major sporting moments gives us as fans an entirely new perspective.
That's why we've gone back and watched some of the best sports documentaries ever made and created this essential list that any sports lover can appreciate. From new information being given to us on well-known stories we thought we knew everything about, to highlighting inspirational sports figures and pioneers that you might know nothing about, there's a little bit of something for everyone on this list.
Let's begin...
20. Tradition: The Rise Of A Gracie Fighter
With the rise of mixed martial arts and the UFC, people have become far more interested in all the different fight styles that are used within the sport. One of the most important facets of the sport is jiu-jitsu, with many people confused and fascinated in equal measure by the complicated grappling art.
The family that are mostly associated with the creation of Brazilian jiu-jitsu are the Gracies. While Rickson Gracie is usually considered the best grappler the family has ever produced, due to his amazing fights in Japan and the legendary status he's built up over the years, there's a good portion of people who strongly believe that Roger Gracie is the finest best jiu-jitsu player to ever step foot on a mat.
Tradition: Rise of a Gracie fighter follows the multi-time world and ADCC champion during a point in his career where he's trying to achieve the seemingly impossible against his most dangerous opponents. Even if you know nothing about jiu-jitsu or even have an interest in it, there's something captivating about watching someone strive for greatness and you see that throughout this flick.