10 Greatest Movies About the Olympics, Ranked

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Margot Robbie as Tonya Harding smiling and spreadin her arms while skating in 'I, Tonya'.

Published Feb 14, 2026, 12:28 PM EST

Michael Block is a 14 time GLAM Award nominated writer, producer, and host of the podcast Block Talk. Throughout his time in the entertainment industry, he has worked on and off Broadway as a stage manager, written several produced plays, critiqued hundreds of theatrical performances, drag and cabaret shows, and has produced events randing from drag competitoons to variety concerts!
On Block Talk, he interviews nightlife personalities, covers the wide world of entertainment through features, ranking episodes, and recaps ALL of Drag Race, as well as Dragula and Survivor. He has interviewed hundreds of RuGirls that span the globe at DragCon NYC, DragCon LA, and DragCon UK.
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Every two years, the world comes together to celebrate the greatest athletes on the planet at the Summer and Winter Olympics. Wearing their country’s colors with pride, the global event is a moment to see the most elite individuals compete across a range of sports, hoping to place on the podium and ultimately earn gold.

Through the games' long history, we’ve seen some of the most amazing and inspirational stories come to life. We’ve also witnessed some of the most shocking scandals unfold. When it comes to the Olympics on the big screen, many of these stories have been dramatized. If you’re in the mood for an Olympic tale, these 10 films are the perfect way to keep the Olympic spirit alive. Ranging from sports and athletes from both the Winter and Summer Games, these films represent the global tradition exceptionally well.

10 'The Bronze' (2015)

Many beloved Olympic films honor the games, sports, and athletes. Then there are movies like The Bronze that take the piss out of it all. A biting comedy directed by Bryan Buckley and written by Melissa Rauch and Winston Rauch, The Bronze tells the story of Hope Ann Greggory (Rauch), a foul-mouthed former Olympic bronze medalist living in the past. After an injury ends her career, she is forced to coach a promising young gymnast, Maggie Townsend (Haley Lu Richardson), to protect her local celebrity status in her small Ohio town. Filled to the brim with comedy legends, including Gary Cole, Cecily Strong, and Sebastian Stan, The Bronze is destined to keep you laughing while grasping the reality of what happens after the closing ceremonies.

Having made its debut at Sundance in 2015, the film received mixed reviews. If you're seeking a profound film, The Bronze is not it. If you're eager for an extended Saturday Night Live sketch, The Bronze actually wins gold. A star vehicle for the former The Big Bang Theory star, Rausch captures the spirit of a has-been with the greatest of ease. It's a comedically cynical character who is stuck in the past. You may laugh at her misfortunes, but there's an authenticity in Hope. It's a fitting character name for sure. The Bronze serves as a reminder that celebrity isn't all that it's cracked up to be.

9 'The Cutting Edge' (1992)

Moira Kelly and D.B. Sweeney in The Cutting Edge looking at each other while ice skating

Perhaps one of the most iconic figure skating films of all time is 1992’s sports romance The Cutting Edge. The film follows Kate Moseley (Moira Kelly), a spoiled, temperamental Olympic-level figure skater, and Doug Dorsey (D.B. Sweeney), a gritty, injured hockey player forced to pair up for Olympic figure skating. They head to the 1992 Winter Games in Albertsville, France, where romance and conflict unite for a climactic battle against the Soviet pair, Smilkov and Brushkin (Christine Hough and Doug Ladret). Known for the infamous toe pick and the risky Pamchenko move, The Cutting Edge gave Olympic fans more reasons to love figure skating.

The definitive sports romance film, The Cutting Edge secured the opposites attract trope right from the jump, but you forgive it thanks to its charm. The level of execution may be low, but for artistic merit, there's no doubt that The Cutting Edge delivers high marks. Though it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, the film’s legacy and cult following have allowed it to pop up every four years to pump up figure skating fanatics. A great source of easy entertainment, The Cutting Edge is required viewing at least once.

8 'Foxcatcher' (2014)

Steve Carell as John du Pont coaching Channing Tatum as Mark Schultz in Foxcatcher.

Not every Olympic film is uplifting and inspiring. Some take a darker tone to explore the shadowy side of sports, much like Foxcatcher. Directed by Bennett Miller, the psychological biopic tells the true story of Olympic wrestler Mark Schultz (Channing Tatum), who is recruited by eccentric multimillionaire John du Pont (Steve Carell) to train for the 1988 Seoul Olympics at his "Foxcatcher Farms" estate. The fascinating thriller follows the toxic, manipulative relationship between the unstable du Pont, Mark, and his brother Dave Schultz (Mark Ruffalo), leading to a tragic, fatal conclusion of Dave’s murder in 1996. The film focuses heavily on John, a lonely and mentally unstable heir eager to be seen as a wrestling mentor and father figure, and his push to divide the Schultz brothers into a dark, self-destructive environment that goes beyond the sport.

With the Olympics as the backdrop, Foxcatcher examines class divide, the dangers of an unhealthy obsession, and the downfall of the American Dream. Miller’s ability to pull a gripping true-crime saga from the headlines serves as its way to reach the top of the podium. One of the film's striking elements is the trio of stars' exceptional performances, as the dynamic and eventual disarray they bring out in these characters is perhaps the best reason to watch. Foxcatcher is an underrated film with a sensational masterclass of performance. If you examine Carell’s career up until this point, Foxcatcher was a complete game-changer for the comedian. If you seek out a complex sports drama, this is it.

7 'Eddie the Eagle' (2015)

Hugh Jackman and Taron Egerton celebrating in 'Eddie the Eagle'

Olympic films that celebrate historic moments and triumphant firsts often bring immense heart and joy to those who fondly remember these great feats. One of those films that brings that feeling to life is the 2015 biopic Eddie the Eagle. Starring Taron Egerton as Michael "Eddie the Eagle" Edwards, the film tells the true story of a British skier who in 1988 became the first competitor to represent Great Britain in Olympic ski jumping since 1928. It's the story of the tenacious underdog who overcame immense, long-shot odds as an athlete with no funding, no official team support, and being considered physically unsuitable for the sport. After moving to Europe to train, he links up with a coach, Bronson Peary (Hugh Jackman), who helps lead him to glory at the Calgary games. Highlighting the power of resiliency, courage, and resounding Olympic spirit, Eddie the Eagle is a feel-good film with a brilliant cast.

Though it is based on a real story, Eddie the Eagle is entertainment at its core. Embellishing his journey with humor and danger, the film is carried to the podium by Egerton's exceptional performance, who has a knack for biopics. Even if you find the film full of inspirational cliches, there's an innate sweetness that makes you forget all about them. Though the story is a celebratory moment for UK pride, its spirit still resonates with international audiences.

6 'Chariots of Fire' (1981)

A group of men running along a beach in Chariots of Fire (1981)

There are two topics we tend to avoid in conversations: politics and religion. But there was one extraordinary moment in 1924 where sports united the two. Directed by Hugh Hudson, Chariots of Fire is a true historical sports drama about two British track athletes — devout Scottish missionary Eric Liddell (Ian Charlson), who runs to honor God, and Jewish Cambridge student Harold Abrahams (Ben Cross), who runs to overcome antisemitism and class prejudice — competing in the 1924 Paris Olympics. Driven by different motivations, they both strive for Olympic gold. Exploring faith, conviction, friendship, and competitive spirit, Chariots of Fire is not just an excellent film, but, based on the Academy Awards it won, one of the most revered pictures ever made. Even if you haven't seen the film, it's very likely you're familiar with Vangelis’ iconic score.

Though the sport it covers is fast, Chariots of Fire is a slower-paced film that focuses on the extraordinary true story. At its heart, a spiritual and patriotic film, the story's moral is that victory comes through self-sacrifice and moral courage. While the sport has evolved since the Paris Games, the spirit of track and field still resonates because of this film. The fire that these athletes compete with is filled with the same heart, emotion, and honor. Chariots of Fire, though a period piece, is 100% timeless. Listen, you know you're an integral work of cinema when the Vatican lists you as an important film under the category of “Value.”

5 'Cool Runnings' (1993)

John Candy, Doug E. Doug, and the cast stand in front of a finish line in Cool Runnings.

There is absolutely no sports movie that is more beloved than Cool Runnings. The epitome of a Cinderella underdog story, John Turtletaub’s feel-good film is loosely inspired by the Jamaican bobsled team at the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary, Canada. The film follows four Jamaican athletes — Derice Bannock (Leon Robinson), Sanka Coffie (Doug E. Doug), Yul Brenner (Malik Yoba), and Junior Bevil (Rawle D. Lewis) — who, after failing to qualify for the Summer Olympics, decide to pivot to winter bobsledding despite never having seen snow. Coached by former Olympian Irving Blitzer (John Candy), these four sprinters find a brand-new need for speed. A brilliantly jovial and inspiring film, Cool Runnings continues to be referenced at every Winter Olympics —especially this year, as the Jamaican bobsled team qualified in Milan!

Though the film is highly fictionalized, the story it is inspired by took the world by storm and makes an exceptional basis for dramatization. At the 1988 games, the real team gained international fame after crashing during their third run in the four-man event, famously walking their sled across the finish line. With themes of overcoming adversity, friendship, pride, and the idea that, as the movie states, "If you don't know who you are, you'll never be anything,” Cool Runnings was more than just a sports film; it served as a reminder that hard work and dedication can make dreams a reality. Cool Runnings is engaging entertainment at its finest.

4 'Downhill Racer' (1969)

Gene Hackman as Eugene Claire, on the phone next to Robert Redford as David Chappellet in Downhill Racer.

Legendary director Michael Ritchie began his career with the triumphant winter Olympic film Downhill Racer. Based on Oakley Hall's 1963 novel The Downhill Racers, the film follows Robert Redford as David Chappellet, an arrogant, talented skier who joins the U.S. ski team in Europe in international skiing competitions. Focusing on his obsession with winning and clashes with his coach (Gene Hackman), Downhill Racer is a genuine exploration of the psyche of an athlete on the world stage.

While the film isn't necessarily a celebration of downhill skiing, it is an extensive character study of a man incapable of deep emotion or love. His sport is his focus, as nothing else matters. Downhill Racer has the ability to put the focus on the brutal realities of competition. With an almost documentary-style approach, Ritchie’s realistic direction puts you up in the mountains with Chappellet. An utterly thrilling film, the sports drama is fulfilling to sports fans and movie lovers, especially seeing Redford and Hackman in a different venue. Aesthetically beautiful and wonderfully acted, Downhill Racer is a sports classic.

3 'Miracle' (2004)

Kurt Russell as Herb Brooks with his arms folded at a hockey game in Miracle

If you're a sports fan, you're familiar with Al Michaels’ infamous exclamation, “Do you believe in miracles?” In 2004, one of the greatest moments in sports history was dramatized in Miracle. Bringing the “Miracle on Ice” to life, Miracle tells the story of the 1980 USA men’s hockey team that defied the odds by winning Olympic gold in Lake Placid. The inspiring story focuses on head coach Herb Brooks (Kurt Russell) as he leads his team of college players in overcoming the odds to defeat the heavily favored Soviet team. Highlighting teamwork and perseverance, Miracle was a beautiful film that immersively brought audiences back to the extraordinary moment.

Russell took on the hard-nosed coach as the film explored the grueling practice to adapt a new playing style that his players had to undergo to keep up with the fast-paced Soviet opponents. To maintain the authenticity, director Gavin O'Connor hired actual hockey players rather than actors for the on-ice scenes. As a former hockey player myself, it truly elevated the action, allowing it to feel as if it was ripped from the games. A nostalgic film at its core, Miracle proved why we stop everything to watch the games when they roll around. No one wants to miss out on the next Miracle on Ice! A celebration of one of the greatest sports moments of all time, Miracle is the feel-good film we need today.

2 'Munich' (2005)

Israeli spy Avana Kaufman (Eric Bana) stands in a shadowy room aiming his pistol in 'Munich' (2005).

While some films document the miracles, others bring forth the harrowing moments that forced the games to take a necessary pause. Directed by Steven Spielberg from a script by Tony Kushner, Munich tells the story of the devastating aftermath following the 1972 Munich massacre. The historical thriller tells the Israeli secret retaliation, known as Operation Wrath of God, following the 1972 Olympic massacre. It follows a Mossad agent named Avner (Eric Bana), who leads a team to track down and assassinate those responsible for the deaths of 11 Israeli athletes. A truly devastating moment in sports history, when retribution is chosen over tragedy, it puts the story in a new perspective. A film about national identity, Munich touches on the blurred line between justice and vengeance.

Inspired by Yuval Aviv's book Vengeance, the film is an exceptional character study of individuals on a mission for their country. As other films and documentaries had put a larger spotlight on the actual tragedy, Munich had the ability to maintain a thrilling story while giving an even-keeled political assessment. White-knuckle, high-octane drama, Munich further educated while providing a cautionary tale about how the Olympics will always be political.

1 'I, Tonya' (2017)

Jeff Gillooly and Tonya Harding standing together in a driveway in 'I, Tonya'

Each Olympic Games has a sport that fans automatically flock to. By far, the big event every four years on ice is figure skating. The stunning sport is a beautiful balance of athleticism and art. But in 1994, you had to add assault into the conversation. One of the biggest scandals to ever rock sports in general was the shocking attack on Tonya Harding’s rival, Nancy Kerrigan. The infamous moment and lead up to it were satirized in the dark comedy biopic I, Tonya. Directed by Craig Gillespie, the story begins in 1991 when Tonya Harding (Margot Robbie) becomes the first American woman to complete a triple axel in competition. Jumping ahead to 1994, after putting herself on the map and earning a place on the Olympic team, her world comes crashing down around her when her ex-husband, Jeff Gillooly (Sebastian Stan), conspires to injure fellow Olympic hopeful Nancy Kerrigan (Caitlin Carver). The poorly conceived plot forces Tonya to face the consequences, leading her to withdraw from the national championship and tarnish her life and legacy forever. Based on "contradictory" and "totally true" interviews with Harding and her ex-husband Gillooly, the film then presents the narrative as unreliable, mocking the shenanigans through modern-day, fourth-wall-breaking interviews.

A brilliant take on a dark stain in the sport, I, Tonya subverted the moment, poking fun at the villains of the story. Rather than taking the situation seriously, it allowed us to laugh at the absurdity. The tragedy is still present, but by tonally bringing the humor forward, it became a critical and award-season darling, including an Oscar for Allison Janney as LaVona Golden, Tonya’s abusive and selfish mother. The dramatized version of the “Why!” heard around the world is the best Olympic film of all time.