Charge into the scrum of Rugby films where grit, glory, and the roar of the crowd leap off the screen.
From historic victories to raw, emotional journeys, these selections tap deep into the heart of Rugby.
Eager for the action and inspiration from the top Rugby classics? Dive into our playbook of colossal hits.
Best Rugby Movies, Shows, and Documentaries:
- Invictus (2009)
- Forever Strong (2008)
- The Miracle Match (2005)
- Murderball (2005) – Documentary
- The 16th Man (2010) – Documentary
- This Sporting Life (1963)
- Pacific Warriors (2015) – Documentary
Table of Contents
#1 Invictus (2009)
- 🎬 Directed by: Clint Eastwood
- 🌟 Starring: Morgan Freeman, Matt Damon
Invictus tells the inspiring true story of how Nelson Mandela (Morgan Freeman) united a post-apartheid South Africa through the universal language of sport.
The film focuses on the 1995 Rugby World Cup and Mandela’s effort to bring the divided nation together by supporting the underdog South African national rugby team, the Springboks, led by captain Francois Pienaar (Matt Damon). This powerful drama not only highlights the significance of rugby as a sport but also its role in healing and reconciling a nation’s wounds.
Where to watch: HBO Max, Vudu, Amazon Prime Video
#2 Forever Strong (2008)
- 🎬 Directed by: Ryan Little
- 🌟 Starring: Gary Cole, Sean Astin, Neal McDonough
Forever Strong depicts the journey of a troubled rugby player who finds a new purpose when he joins a team coached by a disciplined and formidable figure.
The film explores the themes of redemption and the personal growth that can come from the intersection of sport, discipline, and strong mentorship.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Vudu
#3 The Miracle Match (2005)
- 🎬 Directed by: David Anspaugh
- 🌟 Starring: Gerard Butler, Wes Bentley, Gavin Rossdale
The Miracle Match, also known as “The Game of Their Lives,” tells the historical tale of the U.S. rugby team that defeated England against all odds in the 1950 World Cup.
The movie delves into the lives of the players and the journey they undertake to achieve what was considered an impossible victory.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
#4 Murderball (2005) – Documentary
- 🎬 Directed by: Henry Alex Rubin, Dana Adam Shapiro
Murderball is a gripping documentary that provides an inside look at wheelchair rugby, a sport played by quadriplegic athletes.
The film follows the fierce rivalry between the U.S. and Canadian teams leading up to the Paralympic Games. It showcases not just the grueling sport itself, but also the personal stories, resilience, and camaraderie of the players involved.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Vudu
#5 The 16th Man (2010) – Documentary
- 🎬 Directed by: Clifford Bestall
The 16th Man is a documentary that revisits the monumental 1995 Rugby World Cup, which Nelson Mandela used as a tool to unite post-apartheid South Africa.
As part of ESPN’s “30 for 30” series, it explores the political and social implications of the Springboks’ victory and how a sport can become a catalyst for national healing and pride.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
#6 This Sporting Life (1963)
- 🎬 Directed by: Lindsay Anderson
- 🌟 Starring: Richard Harris, Rachel Roberts
This Sporting Life is a classic British drama centered on a miner turned professional rugby player named Frank Machin (Richard Harris).
Set in Northern England, the film tackles Machin’s struggle with his newfound fame, the rough nature of the sports world, and his complicated love life, all of which lead to dramatic and tragic consequences. The film is highly regarded for its gritty realism and strong performances, especially by Harris.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Criterion Channel
#7 Pacific Warriors (2015) – Documentary
- 🎬 Directed by: James Marquand
Pacific Warriors delves into the incredible story of the Pacific Islands’ rugby teams, known for producing some of the most talented and fearsome rugby players in the world.
The documentary sheds light on the challenges these players face, from financial and political hardships to the struggle for recognition and success on the international stage. It’s a tale of passion, resilience, and a deep cultural connection to the game of rugby in the Pacific Islands.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV
FAQ
What is the best Rugby movie of all time?
“Invictus” (2009) is the best Rugby movie of all time, which portrays Nelson Mandela’s use of the sport to unite post-apartheid South Africa.
What are some good Rugby movies?
“Forever Strong” (2008), “The Mercenary” (2019), and “Murderball” (2005) are good Rugby movies, each offering insight into the sport and its community.
What Rugby movies, shows, and documentaries are on Netflix?
The best Rugby movies, shows, and documentaries on Netflix currently are “The 16th Man” (2010), and “Pacific Warriors” (2015), emphasizing the sport’s impact and cultural significance.