Football films of the 2010s showcased an impressive range in narrative, style, and cultural perspectives. From heartwarming dramas to exhilarating comedies, these films offering audiences more than just the thrill of the game. They explore the human stories behind the sport, the passions that drive players and fans alike, and the universal emotions that the game evokes across different cultures. As we celebrate the global appeal of football, this article presents a curated list of films that have not only captured the essence of the sport but have also left a lasting mark on the hearts of movie-goers and football fans around the world. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best football films of all the 2010s.
10. Final Score – Scott Mann (2018)
Set in a packed football stadium, “Final Score” is a thrilling blend of sports and explosive action. When a group of heavily armed and ruthless criminals, carrying an array of sophisticated weaponry, takes control of a major European football match, an ex-soldier, Michael Knox, played by Dave Bautista, finds himself involved in a desperate race against time to thwart their sinister plan. Amid the electrifying atmosphere of the game, including the thousands of unsuspecting fans passionately cheering in the stadium, Knox must call upon his advanced military skills and quick thinking to save not only his beloved niece, who is unwittingly caught in the danger, but also the lives of the countless innocent spectators.
Director Scott Mann balances the electrifying elements of a major sports event with a nail-biting, action-packed narrative. This fusion is heightened by the movie’s intense scenes, which are framed and shot to amplify the suspense and urgency. The movie’s intense scenes are complemented by a strong performance from Bautista, who convincingly portrays a man pushed to his physical and emotional limits. His character’s determination and resilience become the heart of the story. The cinematography captures the vastness of the stadium, contrasting the expansive playing field with the claustrophobic tension of the hostage situation. “Final Score” offers an adrenaline-fueled experience that combines the worlds of sports and action cinema in an exhilarating way.
9. Grimsby – Louis Leterrier (2016)
“Grimsby”, directed by Louis Leterrier, presents a comical take on the football world, filled with a generous dose of British humor and action-packed sequences. The story focuses on Nobby, a football-loving, working-class man from the English town of Grimsby. He is unexpectedly reunited with his long-lost brother, Sebastian, who, unbeknownst to Nobby, is a highly skilled MI6 agent. Their reunion sparks a whirlwind of chaotic and hilarious events. The contrasting lives of the brothers, one steeped in the gritty, everyday struggles of working-class life and the other in the sleek, high-stakes world of international espionage, creates a humorous yet gripping narrative. The story is filled with laugh-out-loud moments and edge-of-your-seat action scenes, as they navigate through a series of unexpected and dangerous events.
Louis Leterrier combines humor with action, creating a film that is as funny as it is exciting. His direction plays up the absurdity of each situation while maintaining a fast-paced, engaging storyline. Sacha Baron Cohen’s performance as Nobby is both hilarious and endearing, capturing the essence of a die-hard football fan with a heart of gold and a mischievous streak. The movie’s action sequences are well-executed, blending with the comedic moments, creating a cinematic experience that is as visually engaging as it is humorously entertaining. “Grimsby” stands out for its unique approach to the world of football, ensuring its place as one of the best football films of the 2010s.
8. Underdogs – Juan José Campanella (2013)
“Underdogs”, directed by Juan José Campanella, is an animated adventure that captures the spirit of football with a touch of whimsical fantasy. The film’s narrative centers on Amadeo, a young and shy table football player with a quiet love for the game. Amadeo’s life takes a fantastical turn when his beloved table football players miraculously come to life, embarking on a journey filled with laughter and unexpected twists. His journey leads him to a confrontation with a childhood rival, who has since become a famous and arrogant football superstar, his ego as large as his ambition. This imaginative story explores themes of friendship, love, and rivalry, set against the backdrop of a passionate football community.
Juan José Campanella’s direction brings a vibrant and captivating world to life, using animation to explore themes of courage and teamwork with an impressive palette of colors and imaginative landscapes. His artistic vision is evident in every frame, creating a world that is both fantastical and grounded in emotional truth. The film’s characters are endearing and relatable, making the story appealing to both children and adults, as they navigate challenges that resonate with audiences of all ages. The animation style is charming, conveying the emotions and dynamics of the characters and filling each scene with a sense of energy and life. “Underdogs” stands out for its originality in storytelling and its heartfelt portrayal of underdog triumphs in the world of football.
7. Early Man – Nick Park (2018)
“Early Man”, directed by Nick Park, is a delightful claymation animation that ties the origins of football to the Stone Age with a charming blend of wit and whimsy. Set in a prehistoric world, the story unfolds as a young, enthusiastic caveman named Dug, along with his lovable sidekick Hognob, stumbles upon the ancient game of football. When their peaceful valley comes under the threat of annexation by the technologically superior Bronze Age city led by the greedy Lord Nooth, Dug and his tribe of lovable misfits rise to the challenge. They propose a high-stakes football match to determine the fate of their beloved home, setting the stage for an underdog story with timeless appeal. This amusing premise serves as a foundation for a tale of camaraderie, bravery, and the birth of a beloved sport.
Nick Park’s unique storytelling and animation style shine in this whimsical portrayal of ancient times, his signature touch evident in every frame. The film is filled with humorous references to modern football culture, cleverly integrated into its prehistoric setting, making it a fun experience for both football fans and history buffs. The characters, brought to life through expressive stop-motion animation, add a layer of charm to the narrative, their quirky personalities and endearing antics providing non-stop entertainment. “Early Man” is a delightful blend of history, humor, and sport, presenting an imaginative take on the origins of football and its enduring appeal, solidifying its place as one of the best football films of the 2010s.
6. Detective Conan: The Eleventh Striker – Yasuichiro Yamamoto, Kobun Shizuno (2012)
In “Detective Conan: The Eleventh Striker”, directors Yasuichiro Yamamoto and Kobun Shizuno combine the world of detective mystery with the high energy world of football, creating a narrative that appeals to fans of both genres. The film follows the young detective, Conan Edogawa, as he embarks on a challenging case that involves a series of bombing threats at various football matches. Utilizing his detective skills and a deep understanding of the sport, Conan races against time to prevent these attacks, while unraveling the complex mystery behind the perpetrator’s motives. His journey is fraught with twists and turns, each more puzzling than the last. This animated adventure combines suspense and action, set against the vibrant backdrop of Japan’s football culture.
Directors Yasuichiro Yamamoto and Kobun Shizuno create a narrative that is both engaging and fast-paced, keeping viewers glued to the screen. Their direction ensures a seamless blend of the excitement of football with the thrill of detective work. The film’s portrayal of Conan as a sharp and resourceful detective adds depth to the character, making him relatable and admirable, as he demonstrates intelligence and a knack for getting to the bottom of even the most perplexing mysteries. “Detective Conan: The Eleventh Striker” stands out for its unique blend of genres, offering a thrilling experience for fans of both football and mystery.
5. Diamantino – Gabriel Abrantes, Daniel Schmidt (2018)
“Diamantino”, directed by the duo Gabriel Abrantes and Daniel Schmidt, presents a surreal take on the world of professional football, combining fantasy elements with sharp social commentary. The film follows the story of Diamantino, a world-renowned football superstar known for his extraordinary skill on the field and his almost childlike innocence. After a catastrophic performance in the World Cup final, Diamantino’s career takes a bizarre and unexpected turn, catapulting him into a strange journey of self-discovery, political conspiracies, and groundbreaking genetic experimentation. This journey is filled with absurd and fantastical elements that humorously dissect the often surreal nature of celebrity culture.
Gabriel Abrantes and Daniel Schmidt create a film that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. The surreal elements of the story are masterfully combined with satirical commentary on contemporary issues, ranging from the cult of celebrity to the machinations of political power. The lead character, Diamantino, portrayed with both innocence and depth, offers a fresh perspective on the life of a football celebrity, challenging traditional narratives about fame and success. “Diamantino” is a unique cinematic experience, combining the allure of football with a quirky and imaginative storyline, making it one of the best football films of the 2010s.
4. The Keeper – Marcus H. Rosenmüller (2018)
“The Keeper”, directed by Marcus H. Rosenmüller, tells the true story of Bert Trautmann, a German soldier and prisoner of war who defied all odds to become a celebrated football icon in post-war England. The film explores Trautmann’s transformative journey as he bravely overcomes intense prejudice to secure his position as the goalkeeper for Manchester City, achieving widespread fame and earning the respect of those who once viewed him with suspicion. His path is characterized by personal and professional hurdles, reflecting the complex post-war sentiments of the time. His journey is fraught with challenges both on and off the pitch, as he navigates his tumultuous past as a German soldier and his uncertain future in a country trying to heal from the ravages of war.
Marcus H. Rosenmüller’s direction brings depth to this compelling story, highlighting the nuances of Trautmann’s character and the era he lived in. The film does an excellent job of portraying the complex emotions and social tensions of post-war England, capturing the skepticism and eventual acceptance of Trautmann by the British public. The cinematography and production design authentically recreate the era, immersing the audience in the world of 1940s and 50s football, with careful attention to historical details and the atmosphere of the time. “The Keeper” is a testament to the power of sports as a bridge between cultures and a vehicle for personal transformation, demonstrating how one individual’s journey can reflect broader societal changes.
3. Greener Grass – Jocelyn DeBoer, Dawn Luebbe (2019)
“Greener Grass”, directed by the duo Jocelyn DeBoer and Dawn Luebbe, is a dark comedy that uses the setting of suburban America and the competitive backdrop of youth football to explore the absurdities of modern life. This film satirizes the intense competitive nature of suburban soccer moms as they navigate through a bizarre world where every action and decision is magnified to absurd proportions, and where the relentless pursuit of perfection reaches extreme, almost dystopian levels. At the heart of this outlandish and colorfully twisted narrative are Jill and Lisa, two seemingly friendly neighbors whose rivalry gradually evolves into increasingly outrageous situations, creating an array of surreal events that mirror the irrational aspects of societal pressures in suburbia.
Jocelyn DeBoer and Dawn Luebbe create a vibrant, surreal world that is as amusing as it is thought-provoking, drawing the viewer into a bizarre suburban dreamscape. The film’s exaggerated portrayal of suburban life is both humorous and unsettling, making an insightful commentary on the extremes of conformity and materialism. The use of vibrant colors and highly stylized settings adds to the film’s surreal quality and underscores the artificiality and constructed nature of suburban life. “Greener Grass” stands out for its unique approach to storytelling, using the context of youth football and suburban life to satirize the lengths to which people will go to fit in within their social circles, making it one of the best football films of the 2010s.
2. Marvellous – Julian Farino (2014)
“Marvellous”, directed by Julian Farino, is a heartwarming and uplifting drama based on the true story of Neil Baldwin, a man who defies expectations to live an incredibly fulfilling and adventurous life. Set in England, the film follows Neil as he embarks on a series of adventures, including working as a clown, joining a circus troupe, and most notably, achieving his dream of becoming a kit man for Stoke City Football Club. His journey is a testament to the power of optimism and the transformative impact of pursuing one’s passions. Despite facing numerous challenges and obstacles along the way, Neil’s unyielding optimism, love for football, and infectious enthusiasm open doors to a world filled with remarkable experiences, enduring friendships, and heartwarming moments.
Under Julian Farino’s direction, the story unfolds with a light-hearted yet deeply inspiring touch, balancing moments of humor with emotional depth. Toby Jones delivers a captivating performance, filling the character of Neil with a sense of authenticity and an infectious zest for life. Each setting is brought to life with an impressive attention to detail, further immersing the audience in Neil’s world. “Marvellous” stands as a shining example of the power of a positive outlook, the beauty of following one’s dreams, and the profound impact that one individual can have on the lives of many, firmly establishing itself as a standout football-themed film of the decade.
1. Sudani from Nigeria – Zakariya Mohammed (2018)
“Sudani from Nigeria”, directed by Zakariya Mohammed, is set in the lush and vibrant Indian state of Kerala. This heartwarming story centers around Samuel, a highly skilled Nigerian football player whose talent leads him to join a local football club in a football-loving town in Kerala. However, when an unexpected injury sidelines him, an unlikely bond blossoms between him and the club manager, along with his warm and welcoming family. This bond, nurtured through shared moments and mutual understanding, forms the heart of the film. The film beautifully explores themes of friendship, cultural exchange, and the unifying power of sports, as Samuel navigates the challenges and joys of life in a foreign land.
Zakariya Mohammed’s direction offers an authentic portrayal of life in Kerala, capturing the region’s vibrant colors, traditions, and the deep-seated passion for football that permeates the community. His keen eye for detail and understanding of the environment adds a layer of authenticity to the film. The film is notable for its realistic depiction of human relationships and the cultural landscape of the region. “Sudani from Nigeria” stands out as a celebration of the universal language of football and its remarkable ability to connect people from vastly different backgrounds. It serves as proof of the power of sports in bridging cultural divides, earning its place as one of the best football films of the 2010s.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best football films of the 2010s:
- Final Score – Scott Mann (2018)
- Grimsby – Louis Leterrier (2016)
- Underdogs – Juan José Campanella (2013)
- Early Man – Nick Park (2018)
- Detective Conan: The Eleventh Striker – Yasuichiro Yamamoto, Kobun Shizuno (2012)
- Diamantino – Gabriel Abrantes, Daniel Schmidt (2018)
- The Keeper – Marcus H. Rosenmüller (2018)
- Greener Grass – Jocelyn DeBoer, Dawn Luebbe (2019)
- Marvellous – Julian Farino (2014)
- Sudani from Nigeria – Zakariya Mohammed (2018)
