If you were captivated by the raw intensity and behind-the-scenes drama of 'BS High' (2023), this article is for you. We’ve curated a list of 10 gripping movies and shows that share similar themes of high-stakes competition, underdog stories, and unfiltered reality. Whether you're a fan of sports documentaries or crave real-life tension, these picks will keep you hooked.

Hoop Dreams (1994)
Description: A groundbreaking documentary that follows the lives of two young basketball players as they navigate the challenges of pursuing their dreams, highlighting the systemic issues and personal sacrifices involved.
Fact: Originally intended to be a 30-minute short film, it expanded into a nearly three-hour documentary after the filmmakers spent five years following the subjects.


Friday Night Lights (2006)
Description: A film that captures the high stakes and emotional intensity of high school football, focusing on the pressures faced by young athletes and their communities.
Fact: The movie is based on the 1990 non-fiction book by H.G. Bissinger, which followed the Permian High School Panthers football team in Odessa, Texas.


The Scheme (2020)
Description: A documentary that explores the darker side of sports, focusing on corruption, scandal, and the manipulation of young athletes, similar to the exposé-style storytelling in sports documentaries.
Fact: The film centers on the college basketball bribery scandal involving Christian Dawkins, who was convicted of fraud and conspiracy.


All or Nothing (2016)
Description: A documentary series that provides an intimate look at the highs and lows of a sports team over a season, showcasing the personal and professional challenges faced by players and coaches.
Fact: The series has covered various sports teams, including NFL teams like the Arizona Cardinals and the Los Angeles Rams, offering a unique behind-the-scenes perspective.


The Last Dance (2020)
Description: A gripping sports documentary series that delves deep into the behind-the-scenes drama, rivalries, and personal struggles of athletes, much like the intense and personal storytelling found in sports documentaries.
Fact: The series was originally planned to air in June 2020 but was moved up to April due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to record-breaking viewership on ESPN.


The U (2009)
Description: A documentary that examines the rise and fall of a dominant sports program, focusing on the cultural and social impact of the team, much like the in-depth exploration of sports legacies.
Fact: The film is part of ESPN's '30 for 30' series and focuses on the University of Miami football team during the 1980s and 1990s.


Run Ricky Run (2010)
Description: A documentary that delves into the controversial and enigmatic career of a star athlete, exploring the personal and professional challenges that shaped his journey.
Fact: The film is part of ESPN's '30 for 30' series and focuses on Ricky Williams, the former NFL running back known for his unconventional career choices.


Cheer (2020)
Description: A docuseries that provides an inside look at the intense world of competitive cheerleading, highlighting the dedication, drama, and personal stories of the athletes.
Fact: The series gained widespread popularity and critical acclaim, leading to a surge in interest in competitive cheerleading.


Last Chance U (2016)
Description: A documentary series that follows junior college football players striving for redemption and a shot at bigger opportunities, showcasing the grit and determination required to succeed.
Fact: The series has expanded to cover other sports, including basketball, and has been praised for its raw and unfiltered portrayal of amateur athletics.


The Carter Effect (2017)
Description: A documentary that explores the cultural and social impact of a basketball superstar, focusing on his influence both on and off the court, much like the legacy-focused narratives in sports documentaries.
Fact: The film highlights Vince Carter's impact on the Toronto Raptors and the city of Toronto, helping to popularize basketball in Canada.
