Tom Brady, renowned NFL quarterback, has charmd audiences with his impressive football skills, but few fans are aware of his passion for sports movies. In a recent interview with WEEI-FM, Brady revealed his favorite sports films, which extend beyond football to include baseball and basketball. At the top of his list is “Any Given Sunday,” a 1999 film directed by Oliver Stone, which follows the Miami Sharks’ quest to regain their former glory under coach Tony D’Amato. While Brady praised the film, it didn’t quite match the standard of his other favorites.
Brady also praised “A League of Their Own,” a 1992 film directed by Penny Marshall, for its portrayal of the challenges faced by women in a male-dominated sport. The film tells the fictionalized story of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League formed during World War II and follows sisters Dottie and Kit Keller as they become players for the Rockford Peaches. The narrative explores the struggles and triumphs of these female athletes, resonating with Brady.
Another sports movie that made Brady’s cut is “Remember the Titans,” a 2000 film directed by Boaz Yakin. The film focuses on Herman Boone, a Black coach appointed to lead a newly integrated football team, and his assistant coach Bill Yoast. Despite facing intense resistance from the community, Boone and Yoast work tirelessly to foster a spirit of unity among the players. Brady praised the film’s portrayal of the importance of teamwork and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Tom Brady (Via Tom Brady/Twitter)
“Rudy,” a 1993 film directed by David Anspaugh, is another movie that made Brady’s list. The underdog story of Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger, a young man from a working-class family who dreams of playing football for the University of Notre Dame, charmed Brady. Despite lacking the physical attributes typically associated with football players, Rudy pours everything he has into achieving his goals. Brady appreciated the film’s theme of determination and hard work.
At number two on Brady’s list is “Hoosiers,” a 1986 film also directed by David Anspaugh. The sports classic tells the improbable story of a small-town Indiana high school basketball team’s journey to the state championship. Gene Hackman stars as Norman Dale, a coach with a troubled past who is given a chance to redeem himself by leading the Hickory Huskers. Brady praised the film’s portrayal of the importance of teamwork and coaching in achieving success.
Finally, Brady’s top pick is “Brian’s Song,” a 1971 film directed by Buzz Kulik. Based on the real-life friendship between Chicago Bears teammates Brian Piccolo and Gale Sayers, the film explores the bond that forms between the two men despite their initial rivalry and different backgrounds. As their friendship grows, Brian is diagnosed with terminal cancer, and Gale stands by his side through the harrowing journey. Brady appreciated the film’s portrayal of the importance of relationships and friendship in the face of adversity.
Brady’s favorite sports films showcase a range of themes, from teamwork and perseverance to determination and hard work. His top picks are a testament to the enduring power of sports to inspire and motivate, even beyond the playing field.
