Movies about unlikely heroes easily appeal to viewers as they feature individuals who overcome significant barriers to accomplish their objectives. In many cases, these movies emphasize individual development and tell success stories of perseverance.
They’re usually based on true-life events and inspire viewers by showing how the characters overcome supposedly insurmountable challenges. We’ve discussed some popular underdog stories that are worth a rewatch.
The Cincinnati Kid (1965)
“The Cincinnati Kid” recounts the journey of Eric “The Kid” Stoner, a youthful poker player, against the backdrop of the Great Depression. He aims to reinforce his dominance as the preeminent poker player by challenging the current titleholder, Lancey Howard. The film results in a dramatic poker confrontation between The Kid and Howard, highlighting different poker techniques and the intense nature of high-stakes poker. At the climax of the drama,
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The Kid nearly pulls a house of aces over tens, placing a $5,000 marker with Howard. This is obstructed by Lady Fingers, an ex of Howard’s, dealing him a queen-high straight flush and obstructing The Kid from winning. The movie’s exploration of real-life poker strategies and scenes made it a classic poker movie in Hollywood. While the film depicted a classic poker game, many modern variants have gained more popularity, including online video poker, available at several top operators. For instance, top online poker Canada sites offer variants like Casino Hold ’em, Aces and Faces and Jacks or Better. Some are also available in bonus variants that offer higher chances of winning.
Million Dollar Baby (2004)
Clint Eastwood, Hilary Swank and Morgan Freeman are co-stars in this classical movie. The film captures the experiences of amateur boxer Maggie Fitzgerald, an underdog, and her trainer, Frankie Dunn. Maggie, portrayed by Hilary Swank, aspires to become a professional boxing star despite her humble origins. Frankie, portrayed by Clint Eastwood, is initially hesitant to instruct her, but she manages to persuade him otherwise.
Frankie, an experienced trainer with a troubled history, recognizes Maggie’s determination and grit as possessing potential. Maggie confronts numerous obstacles during her training and competitions, including the skepticism of others and physical injuries. Her trajectory is characterized by determination and a steadfast belief in her abilities.
Moneyball (2011)
From the nonfiction book by Michael Lewis, “Moneyball” is the subject of Bennett Miller’s film adaptation. Brad Pitt plays Billy Beane, the general manager of the Oakland Athletics baseball franchise. Due to financial constraints, Beane employs sabermetrics, a statistical technique utilized to assess players, in an unorthodox effort to assemble a competitive team. The narrative commences with the Athletics losing crucial personnel to free agency following the 2001 season. Beane encounters Jonah Hill’s character, Peter Brand, a Yale economics graduate with modern concepts regarding evaluating players’ worth.
By analyzing a player’s on-base percentage (OBP), Brand identifies undervalued individuals who, contrary to conventional observers, have the potential to contribute to the team’s success. Beane appoints Brand as the assistant general manager, and the two coaches compile a roster of athletes that, according to conventional wisdom, are either too elderly, injured, or incompetent. Ultimately, the team succeeds, establishing an American League record with a 20-game winning streak, notwithstanding initial setbacks and criticism.
Conclusion
While many underdog movies feature protagonists who prevail over formidable obstacles, not all have a fairytale ending. However, they all uniformly encourage virtues of perseverance and optimism, inspiring audiences to emerge stronger and confront their fears.
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