If you loved the gripping behind-the-scenes drama of 'Making Their Mark' (2021), this article is for you. We’ve curated a list of 10 similar movies and shows that dive into the intense world of sports, leadership, and personal struggles. Whether you're a fan of documentaries or scripted dramas, these picks will keep you hooked just like the Australian Football League series did.

The Endless Summer (1966)
Description: A pioneering sports documentary that captures the spirit of adventure and passion for surfing, following athletes as they chase the perfect wave around the globe.
Fact: The film was made on a shoestring budget of $50,000 but went on to become one of the most influential surfing movies of all time.


The Test (2020)
Description: A gripping sports documentary that delves into the personal and professional challenges faced by a national cricket team, showcasing resilience, teamwork, and the pressure of high-stakes competition.
Fact: The series was released in the wake of the Australian cricket team's ball-tampering scandal, offering a redemption narrative.


The Armstrong Lie (2013)
Description: A compelling exploration of ambition, deception, and the consequences of fame in sports, this documentary unravels the complex story of a fallen hero.
Fact: The film was originally intended to document Lance Armstrong's comeback but was reworked after his doping scandal came to light.


The Short Game (2013)
Description: A heartwarming and competitive look at young athletes striving for excellence, highlighting the intense preparation and emotional highs and lows of youth sports.
Fact: The documentary follows eight young golfers from around the world as they compete in the World Championships of Junior Golf.


The Crash Reel (2013)
Description: This documentary examines the risks and sacrifices inherent in extreme sports, focusing on an athlete's recovery from a life-threatening injury and his journey back to competition.
Fact: The film uses extensive archival footage to trace the career of snowboarder Kevin Pearce before and after his traumatic brain injury.


All or Nothing (2016)
Description: This documentary series provides an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at the lives of athletes and teams, capturing the highs and lows of competitive sports with raw authenticity.
Fact: The series originally focused on the Arizona Cardinals before expanding to cover other NFL teams and even international football clubs like Manchester City.


Free Solo (2018)
Description: This documentary captures the extreme dedication and mental fortitude required in elite sports, focusing on a climber's quest to achieve the impossible without safety equipment.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in


The Weight of Gold (2020)
Description: This documentary sheds light on the psychological struggles and pressures faced by Olympic athletes, offering a poignant look at the human side of elite competition.
Fact: The film features interviews with multiple Olympic medalists, including Michael Phelps and Apolo Ohno.


The Last Dance (2020)
Description: A deep dive into the dynamics of a legendary sports team, blending archival footage with contemporary interviews to explore themes of leadership, legacy, and the pursuit of greatness.
Fact: The series was initially planned for a June 2020 release but was moved up to April due to the COVID-19 pandemic.


Sunderland 'Til I Die (2018)
Description: This series offers an unfiltered look at the struggles and triumphs of a football club, blending the drama of sport with the personal stories of players, staff, and fans.
Fact: The documentary was initially intended to cover Sunderland's promotion season but instead chronicled their unexpected relegation.
