The sports world is shut down for the foreseeable future. In our last episode, we looked at the sports entertainment available on Amazon Prime. Don’t have it? Don’t despair! This time, Belly Up Sports examines what is available on Netflix. May we present Watching Sports Without Sports II.
Watching Sports Without Sports II: Movies
The Natural, 1984
For those needing their baseball fix, The Natural will fill the need. It is one of the greatest movies of all time and definitely check it out if you haven’t seen it. Even if you have, you will be thrill with how Roy Hobbs (Robert Redford) overcomes adversity with a baseball tryout 16 years after being injured. It is a story of triumph over tragedy that contains one of the greatest sports scenes ever. The movie will take you away from it all and definitely shows how watching sports without sports is possible.
Kingpin, 1996
You don’t have to be a bowling enthusiast to enjoy this hilarious movie masterpiece. It stars two comedic kingpins (see what we did there?) Bill Murray and Woody Harrelson. Roy Munson (Harrelson) is a youngster with a promising career until a hand injury leaves his life in the gutter. Years later, he discovers an Amish bowling sensation in Ishmael (Randy Quaid). Using all of his smarts and with a little help, he takes the completely fish-out-of-water Ishmael to the top. Once there, the two of them are confronted by rival Ernie McCracken, who was responsible for the injury. Can they take him down? You’ll laugh and cheer and leave the world behind in this rousing classic comedy.
Raging Bull, 1980
For those wanting in your face action, it doesn’t get any more intense than Raging Bull. This film is one of America’s most celebrated masterpieces. It stars Robert De Niro as Jake LaMotta in an Academy Award-winning performance. What makes LaMotta so great in the ring spills into his life with disastrous consequences for him and his family. He goes into a downward spiral that could cost him everything. To find out if it will, you will have to take a trip through one of the cinema’s most mesmerizing performances.
Space Jam, 1996
For those with families, most of the above movies won’t fill the bill as they are clearly inappropriate for children. No worries, though, as we don’t wish for any kids to have issues because of our recommendations. No such problems with Space Jam. It stars the legendary Michael Jordan as he hoops it up with Bugs Bunny and other cartoon characters. It was on the cutting edge of blending live-action with animation and will help everyone figure out how to be watching sports without sports.
Also check out Hot Road, Miracle and Full Count.
Watching Sports Without Sports II: Documentaries
The Game Changers, 2018
Want some true sports to pass the time? Check out UFC fighter James Wilks as he seeks to advise on improving human performance and diet. He does so from top visionary doctors, scientists, special ops soldiers, cultural icons and athletes. Of course, you will recognize names such as Schwarzenegger and Jackie Chan. What Wilks finds will challenge your ideas of food and strength.
Beyond the Mat, 1999
Have no fear, we are not going to leave you wrestling fans in the lurch. Check out Beyond the Mat, a fascinating inside peek at the world of pro wrestling, both inside and out of the ring. If the names Foley, Funk, and Roberts mean anything to you, do yourself a favor and watch this. Even if you have little interest in wrestling, you will find it entertaining and colorful (is there a better-describing word for wrestling?).
Give these a try: Shelby American, Iverson and Ice Guardians.
Times are tough! We understand! Remember, we are here to help! We won’t leave you out in the cold! Turn to Belly Up Sports and we will help you close the door on reality for a little while. In no time, you will be watching sports without sports II!
Follow me on Twitter @kevin62wilsea and Belly Up Fantasy Sports for more fantasy sports content.
