Directed by Akin Omotoso, Rise is a 2022 biographical sports film that follows the rise of two Nigerian-Greek brothers, Thanasis Antetokounmpo and Giannis Antetokounmpo. Her parents, Charles and Veronica Antetokounmpo, migrate to Greece from Nigeria in hopes of a better life. However, due to the tense political climate, they are unable to obtain a visa and are therefore constantly in fear of being deported. Thanasis and Giannis and their two other brothers were also not considered Greek citizens, although they were born in the country. While playing basketball in a park, Thanasis and Giannis are invited to use the gym at Filathlitikos, a professional basketball club.
Their skills soon make them famous and several clubs take notice of the brothers and want to sign them. However, the brothers are determined to give their family a better life and reject any offer that benefits only them. The motivational film is a treat, with phenomenal performances from Uche Agada, Ral Agada, Jaden Osimuwa and Elijah Shomanke. If the movie has piqued your interest, here are 7 other movies you might like. You can watch most of these movies similar to Rise on Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime.
7. Remember the Titans (2001)
REMEMBER THE TITANS, 2000: Will Patton, Denzel Washington and other cast members.
(Credit: Walt Disney Co./Everett Collection)
Remember the Titans is an inspirational film set in post-segregation America. In a newly integrated high school, Herman Boone and Bill Yoast must keep their team together despite racial tensions between the players. The situation escalates when Boone learns that if the team loses even a single game, he will lose his job as head coach. The coaches and players must overcome the prejudices of the bosses and the other teams to prove their worth. Based on a true story, the film chronicles the tensions in America in the 1970s and how they impacted the sport. The motivating journey that the players and coaches take in the film will surely captivate you if you enjoyed Rise.
6. 42 (2013)
Starring Chadwick Boseman and Harrison Ford, 42 tells the story of Jackie Robinson, the first African American player to play in Major League Baseball. The film is set in the 1940s when Branch Rickey signs a black player for the Brooklyn Dodgers, causing a stir within the team and the industry at large. Rickey warns Robinson that he will have a hard time given the rampant prejudice. The owner asks him not to give in to anger and try his best on the field to answer those who doubt his abilities. Overall, the film tells a heartwarming story of how a lone man defied whatever was thrown at him simply because of the color of his skin. Robinson’s bold decision paved the way for other aspiring African American athletes in all aspects of the sport.
5. The Fighter (2010)
Credit: Allstar/Paramount Pictures
One of the most popular sports biographical films, The Fighter follows the life of boxer Micky Ward and his older half-brother Dicky Eklund. Mickey feels constantly overshadowed by his older brother and is constantly micromanaged by his mother and other family members. After being injured in an unequal fight he was reluctant to participate in at his mother’s urging, Mickey leaves the world of boxing behind.
To lure Mickey back, Dicky tries to rob someone of his money but gets arrested and put in jail. Things are looking bleak for the two brothers, but they soon find the motivation to come back and make their names. The film’s inspiring story is well executed by the duo of Mark Wahlberg and Christian Bale. If you liked Rise, then you shouldn’t miss this heartwarming story of two brothers overcoming their differences and finding success.
4.Ali (2001)
Muhammad Ali is a name that almost everyone has heard of before. Starring Will Smith, Ali tells the inspirational journey on how Muhammad Ali became one of boxing’s most recognizable faces. The film begins with the boxer fighting then-heavyweight champion Sonny Liston, whom he defeats hands down. After that, Ali’s name change, his relationship with Elijah Muhammad and Malcolm X, and his marriage are highlighted. Given the well-known athlete’s motivating journey, sports enthusiasts around the world are sure to enjoy the film.
3. Rudy (1993)
You can’t talk about feel-good sports movies without talking about Rudy, the journey of Daniel Rudy Rüttiger, and his desire to play football at the University of Notre Dame. However, the aspiring athlete must overcome his undiagnosed dyslexia, poor grades and limited financial resources to attend university and join the team. During his trip, he forms a close bond with Frank, the head groundsman at Notre Dame Stadium. He motivates Rudy when the player feels his dreams are slipping away from him. The inspirational film is for you if you enjoyed Rise because both films are about inspiring athletes who are determined to pursue their dreams.
2. Cinderella Man (2005)
As the name suggests, Cinderella Man is an inspirational story. The film is based on the life of James J. Braddock, portrayed by Russell Crowe, a boxer who had to give up his career after breaking his hand. Set in the Great Depression era, the film follows Braddock after his hand injury as he takes part in work to support his family. Thanks to a fortunate twist of fate, Braddock re-enters the boxing arena, where he dominates his opponent. Thus begins Braddock’s rise in the boxing industry, and the boxer becomes an icon for the hopes and dreams of fighting Americans. the real rags to riches story will leave you with a boost of motivation and will definitely please you, similar to Rise.
1. Chariots of Fire (1981)
If you’re looking for Rise-like movies, don’t miss the Oscar-winning Chariots of Fire. Set in the UK, the film follows Harold Abrahams, a Jewish athlete, and Eric Liddell, who was born in China to Scottish missionaries. As Abrahams faces anti-Semitism on many fronts, Liddell must balance his faith, family and love of running. The duo’s journey to the 1924 Olympics and the events that transpired along the way are sure to amaze you. They overcame all odds and established themselves as respected names in the field.
