The Best Movies About Underdogs

Over 1.8K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Movies About Underdogs
Voting Rules
Vote up the best movies that inspire you to go up against the odds.

There’s nothing more inspirational than a movie about an underdog who is victorious despite all the odds stacked against them. Viewers love films that highlight a noteworthy person’s triumphs – stories like this give us hope and make us want to fight to the end! These kinds of inspirational stories make amazing movies, but what are the best movies about underdogs? Vote up the best films below and see where your favorites rank. Then go check out TV shows about underdogs and other loveable losers.
 
The movies on this list tell the stories of an underdog in one way or another. Many of these films were actually based on true events that forever changed our perspectives and left us feeling inspired. Others are completely fictional in nature but inspire viewers nonetheless.
 
This list features the best movies about underdogs including, Hoosiers, Cinderella Man, Million Dollar Baby, Rudy, Miracle, The Jackie Robinson Story, Friday Night Lights, Remember the Titans, and Rocky. Vote up the best underdog films or add one you love that isn't already on the list!

Latest additions: Athena, Cassandro, Flamin' Hot
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  • Rocky
    1
    Sylvester Stallone, Talia Shire, Burgess Meredith
    500 votes
    • Released: 1976
    • Directed by: John G. Avildsen

    In this iconic boxing film, viewers witness the inspiring journey of an underdog named Rocky Balboa, portrayed by Sylvester Stallone. As a small-time club fighter from Philadelphia with big dreams, he unexpectedly gets the chance to compete with heavyweight champion Apollo Creed. The movie showcases his relentless pursuit of greatness and his determination to prove that he has what it takes to be a true champion.

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  • Miracle
    2
    Kurt Russell, Patricia Clarkson, Noah Emmerich
    188 votes
    • Released: 2004
    • Directed by: Gavin O'Connor

    The thrilling story of the 1980 US Olympic hockey team captivates audiences as they watch a group of young college players take on the seemingly invincible Soviet Union team. Under the guidance of their coach Herb Brooks, played by Kurt Russell, these underdogs display their unwavering determination and teamwork as they overcome insurmountable odds. This inspiring sports drama proves that miracles can happen when passion and belief surpass expectations.

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  • Cinderella Man
    3
    Russell Crowe, Renée Zellweger, Paul Giamatti
    192 votes
    • Released: 2005
    • Directed by: Ron Howard

    Set during the Great Depression, this film follows the life of James J. Braddock, a washed-up boxer played by Russell Crowe who makes an incredible comeback against all odds. Despite facing numerous hardships and setbacks both in and out of the ring, Braddock's resilience never wavers as he fights for his family's survival while capturing the heart of a nation in desperate need of hope.

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  • Remember the Titans
    4
    Denzel Washington, Will Patton, Donald Faison
    310 votes
    • Released: 2000
    • Directed by: Boaz Yakin

    Based on a true story, this football drama focuses on the integration of T.C Williams High School in Virginia during the early 1970s. Denzel Washington stars as Coach Herman Boone, who is tasked with uniting black and white players into one cohesive unit amid racial tensions. By putting aside their differences and working together toward a common goal, these young men defy expectations and show that unity can triumph over adversity.

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  • Warrior
    5
    Joel Edgerton, Tom Hardy, Nick Nolte
    212 votes
    • Released: 2011
    • Directed by: Gavin O'Connor

    This intense mixed martial arts drama tells the story of two estranged brothers who find themselves competing against each other for championship glory in a high-stakes tournament called Sparta. Played by Tom Hardy and Joel Edgerton, the brothers must overcome personal demons, strained relationships, and fierce competition to achieve their dreams. This emotionally charged film resonates with audiences as it explores themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the power of family.

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  • Rudy
    6
    Sean Astin, Ned Beatty, Charles S. Dutton
    289 votes
    • Released: 1993
    • Directed by: David Anspaugh

    Based on a true story, this inspiring football drama stars Sean Astin as Daniel "Rudy" Ruettiger, a young man determined to play for the University of Notre Dame despite his small stature and lack of talent. Through sheer perseverance and an unwavering belief in himself, Rudy overcomes overwhelming obstacles to achieve his dreams. The film serves as a testament to the power of determination and the importance of never giving up.

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