We asked Grantland listeners for their favorite soccer movies of all time. Who knew there were so many “Ladybugs” fans out there? A film evidently ripe for a remake. We discussed our top three in this week’s MIB Grantland podcast to be released Wednesday, Sept 14. Some of these movies may have made it:
If John Hughes had come of age in suburban Glasgow instead of the American Midwest, the movie “Gregory’s Girl” is the kind of classic he would have conjured. The soccer-themed film was to 1980s Britain what “The Breakfast Club” was to the States: generation-defining, coming-of-age magic.
Crafted by cult Scottish director Bill Forsyth, the movie revolved around the tale of how a teenage girl revived the sagging fortunes of a high school boys’ soccer team. Feathered of hair, long of leg and nimble of foot, Dorothy was a beauty whose allure was matched only by her skill. Outplaying all the boys, she became an unobtainable object of affection. When she stroked home a goal, even vanquished opponents lined up to join in the celebration.
150 brave British soliders keep thousands of Zulus at bay for 24 hours. A valiant triumph against the odds. Like Animal Farm is not just about horses and cows, this movie is a thinly-veiled allegory alluding to Everton Football Club’s season. No players. No cash. No problem.
Our favorite. By unanimous decision.
