Several noted films have been made with football as the theme. World cinema has witnessed legendary players like Pele, Bobby Moore and Osvaldo Ardiles turning actors in 'Escape to Victory'. Since 1954, FIFA even prepares a documentary based on each World Cup.
Here is a peep into four films based on football’s biggest event.
The Miracle of Bern (2003)
In 1954, West Germany lifted their first World Cup by defeating a star-studded Hungary in the final. All-time greats like Ferenc Puskas, Nandor Hidegkuti and Sandor Kocsis had appeared for Hungary in the fifth FIFA World Cup. The football world is still amazed over Germany’s victory, which is known by the name ‘Miracle of Bern’. The film based on the final match was directed by Sonke Wortmann and deals with the life of a German family.
The Game of their Lives (2005)
The victory of the US team over England by one goal in a preliminary round of the 1950 tournament is considered to be one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history. The US, which had clobbered up a team for the tournament, defeated England, one of the most professional sides in the world. Joe Gaetjens had scored the winning goal for the USA.
Noted writer Geoffrey Douglas wrote the book 'The Game of their Lives' based on the match as well as the members of the US team. Later, David Anspaugh directed a film which was adapted from the book and released it in 2005.
Bobby (2006)
Released in connection with the 50th anniversary of the only World Cup in which England emerged the champions, 'Bobby' deals with the historic victory of England and its captain Bobby Moore, who was instrumental in the triumph of 1966. Ron Scalpello directed the movie.
Garrincha: Lonely Star (2003)
The film traces the rise and fall of Brazilian star Garrincha, who was part of the team that lifted two World Cups. Garrincha's life, including his death in 1983, is dealt with in detail. Director: Milton Alencar.