10 Movies & Shows Similar to Moneyball (2011)

Description: While more mythic than 'Moneyball's realism, both films explore baseball's cultural significance. They share themes of redemption, talent, and the relationship between individuals and the game. Both feature protagonists who change their teams' fortunes through exceptional ability.

Fact: Robert Redford did most of his own batting. The iconic light-smashing scene used real explosives. Randy Newman's score was nominated for an Oscar.

Description: Like 'Moneyball', this film explores a transformative moment in baseball history. Both challenge traditional notions of who belongs in the sport. They share themes of overcoming prejudice, the business of baseball, and the passion that drives the game. Both blend sports action with character-driven drama.

Fact: Geena Davis learned to throw like a professional. Many real AAGPBL players were extras. Madonna did all her own baseball stunts.

Description: This underdog story shares with 'Moneyball' the theme of overlooked talent getting a chance. Both are based on true sports stories about unconventional paths to success. They feature protagonists who challenge the system through sheer determination. The films share an inspirational tone and focus on the human side of sports.

Fact: Mark Wahlberg trained for 9 months for the football scenes. The real Vince Papale has a cameo as a bartender. Filmed at Veterans Stadium before its demolition.

Description: '42' shares with 'Moneyball' the theme of challenging the status quo in baseball. While 'Moneyball' focuses on statistical innovation, '42' tackles racial barriers through Jackie Robinson's story. Both films highlight how individuals can change the game forever. They also share a similar inspirational tone and focus on baseball's cultural impact.

Fact: Chadwick Boseman's first leading role in a major film. Harrison Ford took a pay cut to play Branch Rickey. The number 42 was retired across all MLB teams in

Description: Like 'Moneyball', this film examines how unconventional perspectives can reveal hidden value in sports. Both are based on true stories that combine sports with social issues. They share themes of redemption, family, and seeing potential where others don't. Both also balance sports action with emotional drama.

Fact: Sandra Bullock won an Oscar for her performance. The real Michael Oher consulted on the film. It's one of the highest-grossing sports films ever.

Description: Like 'Moneyball', 'The Social Network' is a gripping drama about innovation, underdogs, and the power of unconventional thinking. Both films explore how data and analytics can disrupt traditional systems (baseball in 'Moneyball', social networking in 'The Social Network'). They also share themes of ambition, rivalry, and the personal costs of success. Both are based on true stories and feature sharp, fast-paced dialogue.

Fact: The screenplay was written by Aaron Sorkin, known for his rapid-fire dialogue. Jesse Eisenberg prepared for his role as Mark Zuckerberg by learning to code. The film won three Academy Awards, including Best Adapted Screenplay.

Description: Similar to 'Moneyball's use of baseball analytics, 'The Big Short' focuses on financial analysts who see what others miss. Both films explain complex systems through creative storytelling. They share themes of challenging conventional wisdom, the tension between data and intuition, and exposing systemic flaws.

Fact: Features breaking-the-fourth-wall explanations. Based on Michael Lewis's book (like 'Moneyball'). Won the Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay.

Description: This film, like 'Moneyball', explores an unconventional approach to baseball talent scouting. Both stories involve protagonists who challenge traditional methods (statistical analysis in 'Moneyball', international recruitment in 'Million Dollar Arm'). They share themes of perseverance, cultural differences, and the business side of sports.

Fact: Based on the true story of Rinku Singh and Dinesh Patel. Jon Hamm trained with real baseball scouts to prepare for his role. The real JB Bernstein makes a cameo as a bartender.

Description: Like 'Moneyball', this film showcases innovation and challenging the establishment in competitive sports. Both feature maverick protagonists who use unconventional methods to succeed against corporate interests. They share themes of passion versus business, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence against odds.

Fact: Christian Bale lost 70 pounds for the role. Real racing drivers were used for stunt sequences. Won two Oscars for editing and sound editing.

Description: Similar to 'Moneyball', 'Draft Day' focuses on the behind-the-scenes strategy of sports management. Both films showcase the high-pressure decisions that shape teams, blending sports action with boardroom drama. They share themes of risk-taking, leadership, and challenging conventional wisdom in sports.

Fact: Kevin Costner's fourth sports-related film. Real NFL team logos were used with league approval. The film's timeline matches real NFL draft timing.