
I have often been asked by teachers and others about what Underdog movies are out there that can uplift and inspire, so here is a list of some of my favorites...
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Rudy
My favorite underdog story of all time, based on the true story of Rudy Ruettiger whose dream was always to go to Notre Dame. Heartwarming.
Rocky
Perhaps the most beloved underdog story of all time, this story stars a young Sylvester Stallone (who also wrote the script!) as prizefighter Rocky Balboa.
The Pursuit of Happyness
Based on the true story of Chris Gardner, this movie shows the love of a devoted father and the triumph of the human spirit in extraordinary circumstances.
The Blind Side
The true story of Michael Oher, a homeless African-American youngster from a broken home, taken in by the Touhys, a well-to-do white family who help him fulfill his potential and in the meantime, transform their own family!
Invictus
The inspiring true story of how Nelson Mandela joined forces with the captain of South Africa's rugby team to help unite their country!
Remember the Titans
Set in 1971, a black football coach is brought in to T.C. Williams High School who unites the teammates and the community. Based on a true story.
Hoosiers
Triumphant tale of a high school basketball team's long-shot attempt to win the Indiana state championship in 1954.
Pay it Forward
One kid shows us all that it's possible to change the world!
Erin Brockovich
A true story about how a feisty woman with no legal background took on the investigation of Pacific Gas & Electric (an energy giant that had polluted the groundwater in Hinkley, California) which led to the largest toxic tort injury settlement in U.S. history. Julia Roberts won an Oscar for her portrayal of the real Erin Brockovich.
Street Fight
An riveting documentary about the mayoral race in Newark, New Jersey in 2002 featuring the young & inspired Cory Booker against the four-term incumbent, Sharpe James.
Seabiscuit
True story of a little horse and half-blind jockey during the Depression era.
Cool Runnings
Comedy loosely based on the hilarious and heartwarming story of the Jamaican bobsled team that competed in the 1988 Winter Olympics.
Invincible
The Vince Papale story - an ordinary guy who, against extraordinary odds, gets a chance to play in the NFL for the Philadelphia Eagles.
Emmanuel's Gift
Narrated by Oprah Winfrey, Emmanuel's Gift tells the powerful and passionate true story of Emmanuel Ofosu Yeboah, a disabled orphan from Ghana, who rose above poverty and a severe physical challenge to become a hero and inspiration to people around the world.
Door to Door
True story of Bill Porter, a man with celebral palsy who finds great success as a door-to-door salesman. Beautiful story of a man who refused to quit and continues to touch people's lives in an extraordinary way.
Amazing Grace
Film based on the true story of William Wilberforce and his courageous quest to end the British slave trade.
Miracle
The story behind the 1980 United States hockey team's Olympic victory against the Soviet Union. Kurt Russell does a wonderful portrayal of the legendary coach, Herb Brooks.
Lucas
Beautiful teenage coming-of-age story about a science geek who falls for a cheerleader, and decides that he will play on the high school football team to try and impress her.
Gandhi
Unforgettable film portrayal of Gandhi's life and legacy. Ben Kingsley delivers the best performance of his career.
Million Dollar Baby
A poignant and moving boxing drama spectacularly directed by Clint Eastwood. It tells the story of Maggie Fitzgerald, a girl fighter determined to pursue her dream of being a professional boxer, and comes to Clint Eastwood's gym to train. Hilary Swank won an Oscar for her portrayal of Maggie, and I cried puddles watching this film in the theatre!
Mask
Inspirational film based on the real-life story of Rocky Dennis, a terribly disfigured but highly sensitive and intelligent teenager.
Field Of Dreams
A classic and "must-see" film for all those who dare to dream.
Happy Feet
I couldn't resist including this animated story about a young penguin who doesn't fit in with the rest of his penguin peers, but who proves that being true to yourself makes all the difference!
© 2012 Sandy Struss Enterprises. All rights reserved.
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