Best Sports Movies Of All Time

Bend It Like Beckham (2002)

This film was a beacon for women who played sports despite objections from their families who felt it was "unladylike". Though it's a romantic comedy, it has a surprisingly touching portrayal of culture, race, and sexuality. Its complex lead, Jesminder Bhamra (played by Parminder Nagra) is what makes this movie so compelling. Watching her navigate between the world sports and the world of her conservative Punjabi Sikh family is a fun watch without ever being heavy-handed.

• Released: 01 Aug 2003 in United Kingdom, Germany, United States
• DVD Release: 30 Sep 2003
• Runtime: 112 min
• Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance
• Rated: PG-13
• Starring: Parminder Nagra, Keira Knightley, Jonathan Rhys Meyers
• BoxOffice : $32,543,449
• Awards: Nominated for 1 BAFTA Award17 wins & 20 nominations total

Story/Plot: Two ambitious girls, despite their parents' wishes, have their hearts set on careers in professional football.

Bend It Like Beckham was Written by Gurinder Chadha, Guljit Bindra, Paul Mayeda Berges and directed by Gurinder Chadha .

6.7/10 IMDB Rating 85% Rotten Tomatoes 66/100 Metacritic