🥇 Inspiring, true stories to get you pumped for the Paris Olympics

what to watch olympics edition

All movies and tv shows that I recommend in this section are included with a subscription. I have also viewed and approved every recommendation personally. It’s my goal to make recommendations that will satisfy what you’re in the mood for so none of your precious downtime is wasted!

Drama: The Swimmers (2022): Watch when you’re ready to feel all the feels and shed happy, sad, and angry tears. I’m putting this film on my “The Most Emotional I’ve Ever Been During A Movie” list. It’s based on a true story about two sisters who flee war-torn Syria to pursue their dreams of becoming Olympic swimmers. On Netflix.

Docuseries: Simone Biles Rising (2024): Watch for, well, Simone Biles. This series begins with two episodes with more to follow this August as it documents Simone Biles’ preparation for the 2024 Paris Olympics while she reflects on her time in Tokyo and the mental health struggles she endured. On Netflix.

Docuseries: Sprint (2024): Watch if you lovedF1: Drive to Survive and Full Swing. We’ve got another Netflix Sports Series from the producers of F1: Drive to Survive and Full Swing, two very enjoyable series. Sprint focuses on going for gold in the popular 100-meter dash event at the Olympics. With Usain Bolt retired, who will take his place? On Netflix.

Docuseries: UNTOLD: Caitlyn Jenner (2021): Watch for a captivating, quick episode about one of America’s most beloved Olympians. Bruce Jenner was the poster child for what a male Olympian looks like. He set a world record in the decathlon at the 1976 Olympic Games in Montreal, taking home a gold medal. This episode also documents what might be his biggest feat yet, transitioning to a woman. On Netflix.

Drama: Miracle (2024): Watch for one of the best sports upset stories of all time. I come from a hockey family and it’s one of the few sports I actually enjoy watching. Besides those facts, this is one of the best sports stories of all time (IMO) about the rivalry between the 1980 USA and Soviet Union men’s Olympic hockey teams. The Soviet Union won Gold in the past four Olympics, but Team USA is ready to take it from them. On Disney+.

Documentary: Icarus (2017): Watch for a story that takes several shocking twists and turns. I watched this back when it came out on Netflix. It was one of the first original sports docs they’ve done and it definitely made a splash. Filmmaker Brian Fogel wanted to learn about performance-enhancing drugs in sports, which led him to focusing largely on Russian athletes and how Russia’s government played a role. On Netflix.

Comedy: I, Tonya (2017): Watch for Tonya’s perspective on the notorious Tonya Harding-Nancy Kerrigan scandal. Nominated for several Oscars, this blockbuster film has an indie, mock-umentary vibe, which I love. It’s probably Margot Robbie’s best on-screen performance, yet, Allison Janney steals the show. It’s a very well-done take on this infamous story, breaking the fourth wall in 1-on-1 talks with Tonya. On Maxand Hulu.

Kids / Comedy: Cool Runnings (1993): Watch on family movie night for a millennial kid’s go-to sports movie. Loosely based on the Jamaican national bobsled team at the 1988 Olympics, this film features the classic themes from a ‘90s family movie: dare to be different, chase your dreams, prove everyone wrong. This is a great pick for family night before the Olympics! On Disney+.

Comedy: Blades of Glory (2007): Watch for the goofy, stupid humor we all love from Will Ferrell. If you haven’t seen this movie, stop what you’re doing right now and watch. But don’t expect some incredible comedic masterpiece. Instead, just be ready to laugh. For those of you who are rolling your eyes at the humor, I know you’re still giggling deep down. This movie is simply a household staple with an all-star cast of comedians. On Hulu and Paramount+.