Football hooliganism has been a controversial aspect of the sport, often capturing the public's imagination through cinema. This curated list of 10 biopics delves into the lives of football hooligans, offering insights into their motivations, the subculture, and the consequences of their actions. These films not only entertain but also provide a deeper understanding of a phenomenon that has shaped football culture in various countries.

Rise of the Footsoldier (2007)
Description: This film tells the story of Carlton Leach, a former football hooligan who becomes involved in the criminal underworld, offering a raw look at the transition from hooliganism to organized crime.
Fact: The film is based on the real-life experiences of Carlton Leach, who also served as a consultant for the movie.


Cass (2008)
Description: The biopic of Cass Pennant, a notorious football hooligan who turned his life around, exploring themes of redemption and the impact of violence.
Fact: Cass Pennant, the subject of the film, was involved in its production and even made a cameo appearance.


The Firm (2009)
Description: This film explores the life of Bex, a young man drawn into the world of football hooliganism, offering a gritty portrayal of the 1980s football violence in England.
Fact: The film is a remake of the 1989 TV movie of the same name, and it features a soundtrack filled with classic British punk and ska music.


The Hooligan Factory (2014)
Description: A comedic take on football hooliganism, this film follows a group of wannabe hooligans trying to make a name for themselves in the firm scene.
Fact: The film parodies many tropes of football hooligan films, providing a lighter, satirical view of the subculture.


Green Street Hooligans (2005)
Description: A Harvard student gets expelled and ends up in London, where he becomes involved with a notorious football firm, exploring themes of loyalty and violence.
Fact: The film was banned in the UK for a short period due to concerns about promoting hooliganism, but it was later released with an 18 rating.


The Football Factory (2004)
Description: Based on John King's novel, it portrays the life of Tommy Johnson, a Chelsea football hooligan, and his struggle with identity and violence.
Fact: The film features real-life football hooligans as extras, providing an authentic backdrop to the story.


Ultras (2020)
Description: An Italian film that delves into the life of a former hooligan leader who tries to mentor a young man away from the violent world of football ultras.
Fact: The film provides a rare look into the Italian ultras scene, which is known for its passionate and often violent support for football clubs.


Awaydays (2009)
Description: Set in the late 1970s, this film follows a young man's initiation into a football firm, capturing the fashion, music, and violence of the era.
Fact: The film was adapted from Kevin Sampson's novel of the same name, which is semi-autobiographical.


The Class of '92 (2013)
Description: While not strictly about hooliganism, this documentary includes insights into the culture of football in Manchester, including references to hooliganism during the era.
Fact: The film features interviews with Manchester United legends like David Beckham, Ryan Giggs, and Gary Neville.


I.D. (1995)
Description: This film follows an undercover police officer infiltrating a football hooligan gang, providing a tense narrative on the ethics of policing and the allure of the hooligan lifestyle.
Fact: The movie was inspired by real-life events and the experiences of an undercover officer named Neil "Ned" Kelly.
