10 Movies & Shows Like Slap Shot (1977)

Description: This prison football comedy shares 'Slap Shot's' blend of rough sports action and anti-establishment humor. Both feature teams of outsiders using unorthodox tactics, with a strong undercurrent of rebellion against authority figures.

Fact: Burt Reynolds performed most of his own football stunts. The film was shot at Georgia State Prison using actual inmates as extras. It inspired a 2005 remake starring Adam Sandler.

Description: This little league baseball classic shares 'Slap Shot's' portrayal of rough-around-the-edges athletes and unconventional coaching. Both films feature teams that win through unorthodox methods, with a mix of humor and genuine sports drama.

Fact: The young actors really learned to play baseball for the film. Walter Matthau's character was based on a real coach. The film spawned two sequels and a 2005 remake.

Description: This baseball comedy shares 'Slap Shot's' authentic sports atmosphere and focus on minor league life. Both films blend raunchy humor with genuine affection for their sports, featuring veteran players mentoring newcomers in unconventional ways.

Fact: Kevin Costner trained with real minor league players. Susan Sarandon's role was originally written for a man. The film is considered one of the most accurate baseball movies ever made.

Description: Similar to 'Slap Shot' in its portrayal of a ragtag team of misfits who come together against the odds, 'Major League' combines sports action with irreverent humor. Both films focus on underdog teams with unconventional methods and charismatic, flawed characters.

Fact: The film was inspired by the Cleveland Indians' struggles in the 1980s. Charlie Sheen's fastball scenes were achieved by a professional pitcher standing off-camera. The iconic 'Wild Thing' entrance was inspired by real-life MLB pitcher Mitch Williams.

Description: While more family-friendly, this hockey film shares 'Slap Shot's' focus on team transformation and the pure joy of playing. Both feature unconventional coaching methods and celebrate hockey's culture, albeit with different tones.

Fact: Inspired the actual Anaheim Mighty Ducks NHL team. Emilio Estevero's character was originally written for Tom Hanks. Several child actors went on to play professional hockey.

Description: Adam Sandler's golf comedy shares 'Slap Shot's' subversion of sports movie tropes with outrageous humor. Both protagonists are unconventional athletes who disrupt their sport's traditions with unorthodox styles and attitudes.

Fact: Sandler based Happy's swing on his hockey slap shot. Bob Barker's fight scene was improvised. The film boosted public golf course attendance after release.

Description: This small-town hockey story mirrors 'Slap Shot's' regional authenticity and love for the sport's grassroots. Both films explore community identity through hockey, blending sports action with character-driven drama and humor.

Fact: Russell Crowe trained extensively for his hockey scenes. The film was shot in Alberta, Canada during winter. Screenwriter David E. Kelley created several successful TV dramas including 'Ally McBeal'.

Description: While more serious in tone, 'Miracle' shares 'Slap Shot's' celebration of blue-collar hockey culture and team dynamics. Both films showcase the physicality and camaraderie of hockey, though 'Miracle' focuses on historic triumph rather than comedic antics.

Fact: Kurt Russell's son played hockey for the University of Vermont. The actors trained for months to realistically portray hockey players. The 'Do you believe in miracles?' call was recreated from the original broadcast.

Description: This sports comedy shares 'Slap Shot's' celebration of underdogs and absurd sports action. Both feature ragtag teams using unconventional tactics against better-funded opponents, with a similar mix of physical comedy and heartfelt moments.

Fact: Ben Stiller improvised many of his lines. The film's budget was only $20 million. Several scenes parody famous sports movie moments.

Description: Will Ferrell's NASCAR comedy mirrors 'Slap Shot's' combination of sports action and absurd humor. Both celebrate their sport's culture while parodying its excesses, featuring flamboyant characters and over-the-top rivalries.

Fact: Ferrell based his character on real NASCAR drivers. The dinner prayer scene was largely improvised. Actual NASCAR drivers make cameo appearances.