Sports

Baseball

Basketball

Boxing/wrestling/martial arts

Cycling

Football

Soccer

Skiing/Mountain Climbing

Surfing/Skateboarding

The Olympics

Body Building

Miscellaneous

Feature films with sports themes

McDonald, Ian. "Situating the Sport Documentary." Journal of Sport & Social Issues, Aug2007, Vol. 31 Issue 3, p208-225, 18p

Baseball

Baseball. A film by Ken Burns.

First Inning, The 1840's-1900, Our Game. The true tale of baseball's beginnings--moving beyond the myth of Abner Doubleday to meet the rogues and the heroes who wrote the first record books. Watch baseball's rise from a "gentleman's hobby" to a sport for everyone. . 115 min. Video/C 3603

Second Inning, 1900-1910, Something Like a War. Baseball personalities fascinate the public and passionate rivalries turn professional baseball into "Something Like A War" as guided by brawling managers like the Giants' John McGraw, farm boys blossom into pros. 107 min. Video/C 3604

Third Inning, 1910-1920, The Faith of Fifty Million People. Immigrants to America eagerly root for baseball, but they're dealt a crushing blow when eight Chicago White Sox players succumb to bribes to throw the World Series in the "Black Sox" scandal of 1919. 120 min. Video/C 3605

Fourth Inning, 1920-1930, A National Heirloom. As America roars through the 1920's, baseball grows popular worldwide. One big reason is the astounding play of Babe Ruth, which secures his legend forever and makes it "A National Heirloom." 117 min. Video/C 3606

Fifth Inning, 1930-1940, Shadow Ball. Baseball struggles to survive during the years of the Great Depression. America's game has another struggle too--the stain of racial segregation. 126 min. Video/C 3607

Sixth Inning, 1940-1950, The National Pastime. Baseball is thrown into turmoil during World War II when its best players enlist. The Dodgers' Branch Rickey forces integration by signing Jackie Robinson. 151 min. Video/C 3608

Seventh Inning, 1950-1960, The capital of Baseball. In the heydays of the fifties, baseball is king and New York City is its throne. For a glorious decade, the game is dominated by the Yankees, the Giants and the Brooklyn Dodgers. 134 min. Video/C 3609

Eighth Inning, 1960-1970, A Whole New Ballgame. Television beams baseball nationwide in the turbulent sixties. The players finally succeed in forming a labor union. Expansion, race changes and new stadiums promise to make the sport "A Whole New Ballgame."116 min. Video/C 3610

Ninth Inning, 1970-present, Home. Baseball become truly global as contests in Canada widen the "World Series". Free agency keeps playerschanging places, affecting both salaries and team loyalties, while exceptional players still inspire many reasons to cheer, and the love of the game continues to be handed down to new fans. 148 min. Video/C 3611

Farewell to Baseball

Farewell to baseball / Lou Gehrig, Babe Ruth (2 min.) DVD 3128; vhs Video/C 7525

Forever Baseball (American Experience).

A focus on the history and significance of baseball as our national pastime, as seen by writers, artists and historians. c1989. 59 min. Video/C 1536

The Life and Times of Hank Greenberg

Warm, nostalgic and wry, this film tells the story of Hank Greenberg, the first Jewish baseball star. Handsome, and humble, he transcended religious prejudice to become one of major league baseball's great sluggers -- a hero to sports fans and an icon for a generation of U.S. Jews. Written, produced and directed by Aviva Kempner. 1999. 95 min. DVD 7150

Negro Leagues Baseball (1946)

Unedited silent footage in Crosley Field focusing on Reese "Goose" Tatum. (included in compilation Treasures from American Film Archives) 8 min. DVD 361

Only the Ball Was White.

Traces the history of the Negro Leagues through photographs, film footage and interviews with the ball players. Discusses the era when major U.S. baseball leagues refused to hire black athletes, thereby denying them potential stardom by the color line. 1992. 30 min. Video/C 4758

Reel Baseball

A collection of two feature films (The Busher and Headin' home) and eleven short films from the silent movie era on baseball. Also includes a documentary essay (Early reel baseball) by Rod Edelman. Disc 1. Headin' home / featuring Babe Ruth (1920, 73 min). -- Babe Ruth Kinogram (Undated, 1 min.) -- His last game (1909, 12 min.) -- The ball player and the bandit / featuring Harold Lockwood ; directed by Francis Ford (1912, 12 min.) -- Early reel baseball / by Rob Edelman. -- Disc 2. The busher / featuring Charles Ray, Colleen Moore, and John Gilbert ; directed by Jerome Stern (sic) (1919, 55 min.) -- Casey at the bat or, The fate of a "rotten" umpire (1899, 1 min.) -- How the office boy saw the ball game (1906, 5 min.) -- Hearts and diamonds / featuring John Bunny (1914, 33 min.) -- One touch of nature / by Peter B. Kyne ; featuring John J. McGraw (1917, 18 min.) -- Felix saves the day / animated cartoon by Pat Sullivan (1922, 7 min.) -- Casey at the bat / featuring DeWolf Hopper (1922, 6 min.) -- Butter fingers / featuring Billy Bevan and Andy Clyde ; produced by Mack Sennett ; directed by Del Lord (1925, 16 min.) -- Happy days / with Ethelyn Gibson and Billy Butts ; directed by Arvid Gillstrom (1926, 14 min.) DVD 7218

World Series Fixed: the Black Sox Scandal.

The White Sox baseball team from Chicago became known as the Black Sox due to their unclean uniforms. This film exposes the corrupt events of the 1919 World Series against the Cincinnati Reds who won nine games to one. When professional gamblers became involved, court action resulted and the White Sox players were banned from participation in future games. c1997. 50 min. Video/C MM15

Basketball

1 Love

A comprehensive documentary about the mingling of cultural and social influences that have made basketball what it is today. Appropriate credit goes to the game's official inventor, Dr. James Naismith. Also explores the YMCA's early role as a "pipeline for spreading basketball over the world". Pays tribute to the old Knickerbockers and Philadelphia Warriors legends, among others, who comprise today's basketball fraternity. It also digs deep into the impact of Harlem's early precision players on the game's vitality and international popularity. Originally released as a documentary in 2002. 93 min. DVD 2370

The Harlem Globetrotters: 6 Decades of Magic

Honored for their unique skills as athletes and entertainers, this relates the story of the Harlem Globetrotters basketball team, from their founding to the present. Includes highlights of their notable players, their experiences as African American athletes, as well as the world wide humanitarian efforts of the Globetrotter organization. 1988. 60 min. Video/C 9375

Hoop Dreams.

This dramatization of the true life story of Arthur Agee and William Gates follows the high school careers of these two young men from inner-city Chicago as they pursue their dream of playing professional basketball. 1994. 176 min. DVD 3802; also VHS Video/C 999:1198

Credits and other information from the Internet Movie Database

Movie Review Query Engine

NBA Rising Stars

Join Shaquille O'Neal, Larry Johnson, Tim Hardaway, Shawn Kemp and the rest of today's hottest young stars in this exclusive look at the NBA's next generation. Concludes with an NBA music video featuring Naughty by Nature's special remix "Hip Hoop Horray." 45 min. Video/C 8834

Oaxacan Hoops

Shot in the mountains of the Sierra Norte in the state of Oaxaca, Mexico and the inner-city neighborhoods in Los Angeles, this documentary explores the long-standing cultural tradition of basketball among the Oaxacan community. It looks at how the sport has helped many Zapotec Indians living in Los Angeles build community, keep traditions alive and maintain a connection to their villages in Mexico. During the biggest basketball tournament outside of Mexico, the Oaxaca Cup, more than 40 teams compete, most representing a village back home. Produced at the Graduate School of Journalism, UC Berkeley, producer, director, editor, Olga R. Rodriguez. 2003. 20 min. DVD 7648 [preservation copy]; vhs Video/C 9727

Boxing/Wrestling/Martial Arts

Belarmino

Belarmino Fragoso, Jean-Pierre Gebler, Teresa N. Bastos, Bernardo Moreira. Documentary on the Portuguese boxer Belarmino Fragoso. The camera follows him in his daily routines, at home with his family, working as a doorman to a night-club, as well as footage of training and boxing sessions. 1964. 74 min. DVD 5214

The Boxer.

This film follows Luis Rodriguez, who lives in a remote peasant village in southern Mexico, who hopes to become a boxing champion in the United States. This film follows him as he travels north to the US-Mexican border, joining other migrants determined to outwit the U.S. border guards. Eventually he succeeds in crossing the border and finds work as an illegal alien. Video/C 7766

Description from Bullfrog Films catalog

The Curse of the Dragon

Documentary about Bruce Lee, the martial arts champion, who turned his skill into a movie career. Includes the reminiscences of his son, Brandon Lee, his friends, James Coburn, Chuck Norris, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Bob Wall, plus footage of Lee sparring with his students and preparing for movie fight scenes. Produced and directed by Fred Weintraub and Tom Kuhn. 1993. 88 min. DVD 9944

The Great Pinoy Boxing Era

This documentary on Filipino-American boxers of the great era of the 1920s through the 1940's includes historical footage of their world champions and other greats. Explains how their boxing techniques changed Western boxing, and through modern interviews shows how they were a source of pride, unity, and hope for other Filipino-Americans. 1995. 32 min. Video/C MM363

Description from Center for Asian American Media catalog

In My Corner.

Filmed at a community boxing gym in New York's South Bronx, this documentary provides an intimate and powerful portrait of two young Latino boxers on their journey through adolescence into adulthood and self-discovery. Fueled by the dream of becoming big-time boxing champs, 15-year old Joey and 13-year-old Jose get hard lessons in life from two surrogate father/trainers. The film is a compelling reminder of how local heroes can shape the lives of young people as they begin sparring with adulthood. Director, Ricki Stern. c1998. 57 min. Video/C MM753

Muhammad Ali, The Greatest

In 1964 Cassius Clay becomes heavyweight champion of the world. The day after his victory, Clay reveals that he is a Black Muslim. He defies white America changes his name to Muhammad Ali. Ali fights George Foreman for the championship at an incredible cultural event in Mobutu's Zaire in 1974. Ali reclaims his glory, his crown, and his legend. William Klein was the only one to film, in his inimitable style this unique saga. c2002. A film by William Klein. 135 min. DVD 2529

On the Ropes

Award-winning documentary that follows the lives and struggles of three aspiring boxers and their trainer, a one-time sparring partner of Muhammad Ali, in the Bedford-Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn as they work toward the 1997 Golden Gloves competition. Directed by Nanette Burstein, Brett Morgen, 1999. 96 min. Video/C 8593

Split Decision

Chronicles the rise of Jesus "El Matador" Chavez through the professional boxing ranks to number one contender for the World Championship when the U.S. government enacted two tough immigration laws that ordered the immediate deportation of all non-U.S. citizens with a criminal conviction. Despite his clear rehabilitation Jesus with a prior conviction for armed robbery, was deported to Mexico. A compelling documentary that exposes the failings of current immigration policy and questions the implications of the prevailing "tough-on-crime" and one-size-fits all criminal justice system. 2000. 78 min. Video/C 7871

Description from First Run Icarus catalog

Unforgivable Blackness: The Rise and Fall of Jack Johnson

The in-depth and intimate story of one of the most important African Americans to live in the first half of the 20th century. Tells the story of Jack Johnson, who was the first African American boxer to win the most coveted title in all of sports - Heavyweight Champion of the World. Includes his struggles in and out of the ring and his desire to live his life as a free man. Directed by Ken Burns. 2005. 220 min. DVD 3434

When We Were Kings.

The story of the Rumble in the Jungle in Zaire. Offers a ringside seat to witness two all-time heavyweight champions, Muhammad Ali and George Foreman. A film by Leon Gast and Taylor Hackford. In 1974, Muhammad Ali made what some thought would be his last title bid to regain the heavyweight boxing championship, stripped from him years before. Fight promoters offered him five million dollars to come to Zaire to fight George Foreman, a young and seemingly unbeatable opponent. Then, as the world watched, Ali took center ring, pulling off a stunning upset. Film includes an interview with director Leon Gast, on the making of the film. Directed by Leon Gast. 1996. 94 min. DVD 5862; vhs Video/C 6041

Ansen, David. "When We Were Kings." (movie reviews) Newsweek v129, n7 (Feb 17, 1997):66.

Corliss, Richard. "When We Were Kings." (movie reviews) Time v149, n7 (Feb 17, 1997):83.

Davis, Jack E. "When We Were Kings." (movie reviews) Journal of American History v84, n3 (Dec, 1997):1182 (2 pages).

Early, Gerald. "Ali's Rumble." (documentary 'When We Were Kings') Sight and Sound v7, n5 (May, 1997):10 (3 pages).

Goldberg, Jonah."When We Were Kings." (movie reviews) Commentary v103, n6 (June, 1997):51 (5 pages).

Joyner, Will. "The Fight Took 8 Rounds, The Film 22 Years." (making the documentary 'When We Were Kings' about Muhammad Ali) New York Times v146, sec2 (Sun, Feb 16, 1997):H11(N), H11(L), col 4, 42 col in.

Kauffmann, Stanley. "When We Were Kings." (movie reviews) New Republic v216, n7 (Feb 17, 1997):27.

Lane, Anthony. "When We Were Kings." (movie reviews) New Yorker v73, n1 (Feb 17, 1997):92.

McCarthy, Todd. "When We Were Kings." (movie reviews) Variety v362, n2 (Feb 12, 1996):82 (2 pages).

O'Brien, Richard. "When We Were Kings." (movie reviews) Sports Illustrated v85, n19 (Nov 4, 1996):20.

Simon, John. "When We Were Kings." (movie reviews) National Review v49, n6 (March 24, 1997):56 (2 pages).

Van Gleder, Lawrence. "When We Were Kings." (movie reviews) New York Times v145 (Fri, Oct 25, 1996):B19(N), C21(L), col 1, 12 col in.

Waxman, Sharon. "Prize Fight Over a Prize Film; the truth about the making of 'When We Were Kings.'" Washington Post v120 (Tue, Sept 23, 1997):B1, col 1, 53 col in.

Winning Heaven: A Glimpse Into the Life of a Young Muay Thai Boxer

This film invites us into the fascinating world of Muay Thai boxing through the life of Tong, a young Thai boxer from North Thailand. Director Detlev F. Neufert weaves scenes of everyday life--home, school, leisure--into this simple but evocative story of Tong's dedication to his training. The authentic portrayal of present-day Thai society and its unique cultural traditions enriches the film. Directed by Detlev F. Neufert. 2006. 29 min. DVD 8958

Wrestling with Manhood: Boys, Bullying and Battering.

Drawing the connection between professional wrestling and the construction of contemporary masculinity, Sut Jhally and Jackson Katz show how so-called 'entertainment' is related to homophobia, sexual assault and relationship violence. They further argue that to not engage with wrestling in a serious manner allows cynical promoters of violence and sexism an uncontested role in the process by which boys become "men." c2002. 60 min. Video/C 9319

Description from Media Educational Foundation catalog

Cycling

Hell on Wheels

Featuring, Lance Armstrong, Eric Zabel, Jan Ullrich, Tyler Hamilton, Andreas Kloden, Alexandre Vinokourov, Rolf Aldag. Le Tour de France is the toughest bicycle race of all. This film shows the torture and the pain, the fear and the courage of the riders on the Tour. It also showcases the supporting casts of managers, masseurs, fans, and more. 2004. 123 min. DVD 6305

100% Woman.

A post-operative transsexual, Michelle Dumaresq, has provoked outrage by entering the sport of women's mountain bike racing. The program explores complex issues of gender identity surrounding the controversy and manifested in Dumaresq's personal and professional relationships. Includes commentary from her parents and interviews with Michelle, friends, and rival cyclists. Director, Karen Duthie. Dist.: Films Media Group. 2004. 60 min. DVD 4487

Vietnam, Long Time Coming

In 1998, World T.E.A.M. (The Exceptional Athlete Matters) Sports organized a 16-day, 1,100 mile bicycle expedition through Vietnam from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. The non-profit organization, which focuses on events for the disabled, drew an array of veterans from the U.S. and Vietnam, as well as celebrity riders like Greg LeMond and Senator John Kerry. Past enemies ride as one team in peace across a landscape where they once killed to stay alive. The real finish line is the painful emotional confrontation each rider must make alone along the way. Produced and directed by Jerry Blumenthal, Peter Gilbert and Gordon Quinn, Kartemquin Films. Filmed on location in Vietnam, January 1998. 120 min. DVD 8925

Vive le tour

Documents the annual 20-day Tour de France bicycle race held each July. Covering the 1962 race this fast moving essay shows the racers' tension of competition, the physical stresses, the eating and drinking while in motion, the collisions and spills, and the enthusiasm of the spectators. Directed by Louis Malle. 1962. 18 min. DVD 7511; vhs Video/C MM357

Football

The Big Game 1982 - Cal vs Stanford: The Final PlayFinal few minutes of the Cal/Stanford, 1982 Big Game showing the improbable play that won the game for the Bears. Plays several times sequentially. DVD X610; vhs Video/C 512

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Sports Scenes: African-American Newsreels

Scenes from the Morgan State-North Carolina State football game are shown and at Ebbets Field in Brooklyn. Video/C 7179

True-hearted Vixens.

Follows the fortunes of two women and the teams they play for during a six-game exhibition tour of a start-up Women's Professional Football League in the United States. With their dreams tied to the league's success, the women grapple with powerful social stereotypes, the league's business practices and their own changing expectations of success. c2000. 58 min. Video/C MM694

Skiing/Mountain Climbing

The Conquest of Everest

Narrators: Sir Edmund Hillary, Meredith Edwards. Documentary record of Edmund Hillary and company's triumphant 1953 Mount Everest expedition. The film focuses on the entire expedition team, including the Sherpas, and not just on Hillary and Norgay. Includes great shots of Everest with the blanket of snow blowing off its south face. Directed by George Lowe. Originally produced in 1953. 75 min. Video/C MM534

The Dark Glow of the Mountains (Gasherbrum, der leuchtende Berg)

In the summer of 1984, famous Italian mountain climber Reinhold Messner climbed Gasherbrum I and II, two of the highest peaks in the world back to back. A film about stark and austere inner landscapes, and what compels these climbers. A film by Werner Herzog. 1984. DVD 6505

Everest

Join an international team of climbers as they scale the tallest Himalayan peak through blizzards and dizzying altitudes with little or no oxygen. Filmed during the infamous 1996 storm which claimed eight lives, Everest features the first large format images of the inspirational yet deadly vistas of Mt. Everest. 1999. 45 min. Video/C 9376

The Making of Everest

A documentary showing how the IMAX production of "Everest" was filmed. "Photographing the world's largest mountain in the world's largest film format demanded more than just strength and courage; it required dedication and purpose. During shooting, our filming schedule took an unexpected turn when eight climbers from other expedition teams died in a sudden storm high on the mountain." 1999. 38 min. Video/C 9377

[Yuichiro Miurahe] The Man Who Skied Down Everest

A documentary about Yuichiro Miura, a Japanese alpinist who skied down Mt. Everest in 1970 accompanied by a Canadian film crew. Miura skied 6,600 feet in 2 minutes and 20 seconds and fell 1320 feet down the steep Lhotse face from the Yellow Band just below the South Col. He used a large parachute to slow his descent. He came to a full stop just 250 ft. from the edge of the crevasse. Eight died during the expeditions' ascent. Directed by Bruce Nyznik, Lawrence Schiller. 1975. 85 min. DVD X204

Soccer

Arab Diaries, Part 2: Youth.

Looks at the dilemmas of young women in three Arab countries: Nancy, struggling with traditional barriers inherent in Lebanese society is not supposed to move out of her mother's home until she is married, but she desperately desires independence. Sara is a 16 year-old Egyptian athlete playing soccer, a game traditionally reserved for men. Shahra and Linda perform in an Algerian female rap group famous for social and political lyrics, which has become a unique expression of dissent in the face of a conservative society and Islamic violence. 26 min. Video/C 8335

Memorias recentes

The final segment looks at soccer and the two sports organizations Sport Lisboa e Benifaca and Futebol Clube do Porto. In Portuguese without English subtitles. 2005. DVD 6175

Mr. Foot (South series).

A light hearted look at Cameroon's national obsession - soccer. 1991. 20 min. Video/C 3054

Description from First Run/Icarus catalog

Real, The Movie

From the pitch to the locker room and to five continents, the passion for the greatest soccer team in the world is revealed. Includes soccer stars such as David Beckham, Zinedine Zidane, Ronaldo, Raul, and many more. Part feature, part documentary. 2006. 90 min. DVD 6239

Women's Football in Africa

Looks at the history and difficulties, challenges and successes encountered by women's soccer teams and players in Africa. 2004. 21 min. DVD 3679

Zanzibar Soccer Queens (Malkia wa soka Zanzibar)

In the Muslim country, Zanzibar, women's activities are severely curtailed. This is a portrait of a feisty group of women who have defied the cultural constraints by playing a man's game, soccer, giving reign to their competitive spirit, and defining new roles and identities for themselves in a predominantly Muslim society. Clerical disapproval has meant that there is a lack of women's teams with which to compete so the women must sometimes play against men's teams. A film by Florence Ayisi. 2008. 55 min. DVD X354

Description from Filmakers Library catalog

Surfing/Skateboarding

Billabong Odyssey

A thousand people have climbed Mt. Everest, but how many have ridden an eighty-foot wave? Organizer Bill Sharp applies that rationale in combining the world's best big wave surfers, jet-powered watercraft, cutting-edge weather tracking, and wave forecasting to chase down the biggest swells the earth's oceans have to offer. Technology reveals these locations, allows surfers to reach them and then to ride bigger waves than anyone before, the ultimate man-against-the-sea adventure. Directed by Philip Boston. 2003. 87 min. DVD X206

Credits and other information from the Internet Movie Database

Dogtown and Z-boys

A documentary of a gang of discarded kids in L.A. who virtually revolutionized skateboarding with an aggressive style, awe-inspiring moves and street smarts, and in the process, transformed youth culture forever. Captures the rise of the Zephyr skateboarding team from Venice's Dogtown, a tough "locals only" beach with a legacy of outlaw surfing, who used abandoned swimming pools to sharpen their skills. 2001. 91 min. DVD 1710

Chris Chang. "Dogtown and Z-boys." Film Comment. New York: Mar/Apr 2002. Vol. 38, Iss. 2; p. 75 (1 page)

Kusz, Kyle. "Dogtown and z-boys : white particularity and the new, new cultural racism." In: Visual economies of/in motion: sport and film Edited by C. Richard King & David J. Leonard. New York : Peter Lang, c2006 (MAIN: PN1995.9.S67 V57 2006)

Roth, Elaine. "Dogtown and Z-boys." Journal of American Folklore, Spring2004, Vol. 117 Issue 464, p197-198, 2p UC users only

The Endless Summer

American Bruce Brown took the Australian surf movie and broadened the audience by adding a slight narrative line and a jokey commentary which did not disguise the film's underlying romanticism. As we follow two California surfers around the world from Malibu to Ghana, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti and the forty foot waves of Oahu, what comes through is surfing not as a sport but as an attitude of life, a harmony between the surfer and the natural elements. Produced, directed and scripted by Bruce Brown. 1966. 92 min. DVD 9642

Credits and other information from the Internet Movie Database

The Endless Summer II

From the gigantic surf off Oahu's North shore to a man made surfing park in Texas, a group of surfers continues to travel the globe in search of the ultimate wave. California's Robert Wingnut Weaver and Patrick O'Connell, are chasing the sun around the globe as they journey on a non-stop, thrill-seeking adventure where it's always summer somewhere and the surf's forever pumping. Produced, directed and scripted by Bruce Brown. 104 min. 1994. DVD X202

Credits and other information from the Internet Movie Database

Step Into Liquid

Takes you from the terrifying monstrous waves of Oahu's North Shore to the Texas waters of the Gulf of Mexico (where waves are created by massive oil supertankers) to the shores of Ireland and Rapa Nui. Told through the voices of legends, pros, and everyday surfers alike, it is not a film just for surfers, but for anyone with an appreciation for sport and an inkling of what it means to be "stoked." Special features: Disc 1: Dana Brown DVD intro; extensive deleted scenes/outtakes; surf lessons with Wingnut and Maureen Drummy; making of a surfboard with Robert and Sam August; Surfline features; "Capturing a wave" featurette; multiple interviews and commentaries with the surfers and filmmakers; music video montage; preview of disc 2 special features; Disc 2 (DVD-ROM): complete video game of Kelly Slaters' Pro Surfer "Step into liquid" high-definition; Robert August surfboard outfitter interactive feature; additional Surfline features; stunning 3D fly-through satellite imagery tour of surf locations. Written, edited & directed by Dana Brown. 2003. 88 min. DVD X203

Credits and other information from the Internet Movie Database

Thicker Than Water

Filmed entirely on 16 mm film, this beautiful surf video was shot on location in Indonesia, Tahiti, India, Ireland, France, Australia, Hawaii and New York City. Includes award winning music soundtrack. A film by Jack Johnson and Chris and Emmett Malloy. 2000. 65 min. DVD X205

The Olympics

Los Angeles Carries the Olympic Torch

This is the story of the people and politics behind the Los Angeles Olympics. The program features an interview with Mayor Tom Bradley and a historical review of the 1932 Olympics. California Journal report; 1. 1981. Video/C 2098 (in storage NRLF: B 3 969 106)

Olympia I: The Festival of the People (1936-1938)

Videocassette release of the 1936-1938 documentary by Leni Riefenstahl-Produktion. After being commissioned by the 1936 Olympic committee to create a feature film of the Berlin Olympics, Riefenstahl made a film that celebrates the human body by combining the poetry of bodies in motion with close-ups of athletes in the heat of competition. Part I, "The Festival of the People," includes the carrying of the flame from Greece, the lighting of the torch and the track-and-field events where American runner Jessie Owens won an unprecedented four gold medals. 119 min. DVD 3681 also VHS Video/C 5432

Information about this film from the Internet Movie Database

Books and articles about Riefenstahl in the UCB Library

Olympia II: The Festival of Beauty(1936-1938)

Includes field hockey, polo, soccer, aquatic, bicycling, sailing and rowing events as well as the marathon race and the thrilling decathlon where American Glen Morris won the title of the greatest all-around athlete in the world. 96 min. DVD 3681; also VHS Video/C 5433

Information about this film from the Internet Movie Database

Books and articles about Riefenstahl in the UCB Library

Olympics of 1936

Presents newsreel highlights of the 1936 games, aka "The Hitler games," featuring American track star Jesse Owens. 7 min. Video/C MM179

One Day in September

Presents the shocking true story of the brutal massacre of 11 Israeli athletes by a team of extreme Palestinian terrorists during the 1972 Olympics in Munich, Germany. Chronicles events from terrorist training in Libya to the terrorists sneaking into the Olympic Village to the tension-filled negotiations to the shocking conclusion at a German airport. Told with actual video shot during the crisis and interviews with those who took part (including the only surviving member of the Black September group). 2001. 90 min. DVD 1040

Tokyo Olympiad.

An epic study of athletes struggling to excel against their own bodies and against each other. Kon Ichikawa used 164 cameramen and over 100 cameras to show the humanity of the competitors--the tears of the Japanese women volleyball champions, the bellow of the hammer throwers, the pain of the collapsed marathon runner and the solitude of the loser, finishing his lap alone. Originally produced as a motion picture in 1965. 170 min. DVD 1280; also on VHS Video/C 4788 Pt. 1-2

Body Building

Afghan Muscles.

In war-ravaged post-Taliban Kabul, Afghanistan young men have discovered the art of bodybuilding and dream of muscle, honour and fame. Once barely tolerated by the Taliban, bodybuilding gyms and clubs are sprouting up throughout the country. Today, competitions take place in the open -- in overcrowded halls where contestants strut their stuff before enthusiastic audiences of robed bearded men who fervently cheer for their favorites. Directed by Andreas M. Dalsgaard. Dist. Cinema Guild. 2007. 59 min. DVD X362

Bigger, Stronger, Faster

A look at how Americans see themselves as having to be the best in the world, and what some people will do in order to achieve that title... At its heart, this is the story of director Christopher Bell and his two brothers who grew up idolizing muscular giants like Hulk Hogan, Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger, and who went on to become members of the steroid-subculture in an effort to realize their American dream. When you discover that your heroes have all broken the rules, do you follow the rules, or do you follow your heroes? Directed by Chris Bell. 106 min. 2008. DVD X413

Pumping Iron

In 1977, an independent documentary movie shed light on the world of bodybuilding, becoming a hugh box office hit and creating an international sensation. It launched one man's multi-million dollar career. It changed the world of bodybuilding and physical exercise forever. Follows 5-time Mr. Olympia, Arnold Schwarzenegger, as he gets ready to compete for his 6th title. Based on the book by Charles Gaines and George Butler. Special features: "Iron and beyond": explores the impact on the fitness industry and Hollywood's idea of the action hero; "Raw iron": the making-of 'Pumping iron' - includes exclusive outtakes and an interview reunion; "Iron insights": a 2003 in-depth interview with Arnold Schwarzenegger, in which he finally answers controversial questions frequently asked about the film; video bio of Arnold Schwarzenegger - a comprehensive biography with exlusive photo gallery. 1977. 90 min. DVD 2130; also on VHS Video/C 3708

Pumping Iron II: The Women

This controversial film about blood, sweat, and beauty follows the stories of five top female body-builders as they prepare for the Caesars Palace World Cup championship. 1985. 107 min. DVD 2891

Miscellaneous

All for One: In the Spirit of the Race.

This first feature-length documentary film ever made about men's intercollegiate rowing, follows coach Steve Gladstone and his University of California Berkeley crew team in their quest to rebuild the once dominant rowing program. Having led Cal to their last national title in 1976 and now in his second stint at Cal in 1997, Gladstone produced immediate results by guiding the team to their best season in over a decade. 2001. 60 min. DVD 7984; vhs Video/C 8311

Beauty Knows No Pain

A documentary film which follows the annual development of the Kilgore Rangerettes, a corps of marching and dancing majorettes at Kilgore College, Kilgore, Tex., through their rigorous training and indoctrination to their final dress rehearsal. Directed by Elliott Erwitt. 1971. 25 min. Video/C 9177

Bigger, Stronger, Faster

A look at how Americans see themselves as having to be the best in the world, and what some people will do in order to achieve that title... At its heart, this is the story of director Christopher Bell and his two brothers who grew up idolizing muscular giants like Hulk Hogan, Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger, and who went on to become members of the steroid-subculture in an effort to realize their American dream. When you discover that your heroes have all broken the rules, do you follow the rules, or do you follow your heroes? Directed by Chris Bell. 106 min. 2008. DVD X413

The Black Athlete.

Features archival films with early black athletes, interviews with prominent black athletes and coaches such as O.J. Simpson, Harry Edwards, Muhammed Ali, Arthur Ashe and others. Raises questions about the status of black people in the American culture. c1980. 58 min.Video/C 185

Body and Soul. Part 1, Body

An examination of Negro contributions to sports in America. Racial tensions on college and pro teams, and the threat of an Olympic boycott in 1968, suggest that the sports world is not as integrated as some people think. Interviews with sports figures bring up questions about the fairness of treatment that Negro athletes have received from their managers, spectators and country. A CBS News production, 1968. DVD 8425 [preservation copy]; vhs Video/C MM735

The Cockfight

At cockfights in Bali, birds are matched by type, strength and fighting characteristics, metal spurs are tied to their legs, and bets are placed on the outcome: fatality, surrender, or tie-breaker. 15 min. Video/C 8746

Description from UC Center for Media & Independent Learning catalog

Cockfighting

This classic study of cockfighting shows the training of the birds and actual scenes of fighting and investigates the attraction of one of the world's most popular spectator sports. 1974. 25 min. Video/C 9910

The Journey of the African-American Athlete.

African-American athletes today are much-loved heroes in American sports, but this has not always been true. In the past, many black athletes faced crushing racial discrimination, were rejected by their fellow competitors and fans, and had to wage a lifetime struggle to achieve equality on the playing field. Captured here are some of the Afro-American greats who led the way. 1996. 119 min. Video/C 5430

Just for the Ride

Through a profile of the lives of two cowgirls, presents a history of women in professional rodeos, and their evolving role from background "decoration" to full-fledged rodeo participants. Filmed, edited, and produced by Amanda Micheli1996. 53 min. Video/C MM778

Marathon Challenge

Follows thirteen sedentary individuals through a nine-month training program designed to prepare them for running the grueling Boston Marathon. Filled with personal drama, the film also takes viewers on a scientific adventure inside the human body. What happens to muscles and hearts when couch potatoes become endurance runners? And what are the hidden risks? This behind-the-scenes portrait of the trials, tribulations, and joys of marathon training reaches a climax at the 2007 Boston Marathon. Originally produced as an episode of the television series: Nova. 2008. 54 min. DVD X867

Murderball

A film about tough, highly competitive quadriplegic rugby players. These men have been forced to live life sitting down, but in their own version of the full-contact sport, they smash each other in custom-made gladiator-like wheelchairs. Tells the story of a group of world-class athletes unlike any ever shown on screen. In addition to smashing chairs, it smashes every stereotype about the disabled. Directed by Henry-Alex Rubin, Dana Adam Shapiro. 2005. 88 min. DVD 4851

Playing Unfair

It has been 30 years since Title IX legislation granted women equal playing time, but the male-dominated world of sports journalism has yet to catch up with the law. Coverage of women's sport lags far behind men's, and focuses on female athletes femininity and sexuality over their achievements on the court and field. It has been 30 years since Title IX legislation granted women equal playing time, but the male-dominated world of sports journalism has yet to catch up with the law. Coverage of women's sport lags far behind men's, and focuses on female athletes femininity and sexuality over their achievements on the court and field. 2002. 30 min. Video/C8892

Description from Media Education Foundation Catalog

Reaching the Finish Line: Black Athletes and Civil Rights.

This program evaluates the societal contributions of Afro-American sports greats Joe Louis, Jesse Owens, Jackie Robinson, Toni Stone, Willie O'Ree, Arthur Ashe and other sports icons who, with commitment and perseverance, broke the color barrier in professional athletics, paving the way for later civil rights victories. Commentary: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, John Isaacs, Charlie Sifford, Don Newcombe, Buck O'Neil, Rachel Robinson, Willie O'Ree, Dusty Baker, Mamie Johnson, Donald Dell. Dist.: Films Media Group. c1999. 32 min. Video/C 6873

Shoot Yourself Some Golf (1942)

Ronald Reagan and (then) wife Jane Wyman are given golf lessons by golf-pro Jimmy Thomson, and watch trick shots performed by Jack Redmond. Supplementary short feature on DVD 8054

Sporting Fever, 1930. (The People's Century)

In the early 1900's, competitive sports were still not far removed from recreation--more for the player than the spectator. This film follows boxing, baseball, soccer, and more, as sports transition from a modest pastime to a fiercely competitive--and commercial-- business to a potent expression of national pride and politics. Throughout, sports fans the world over remember the drama, the thrill, the exhilaration--and the patriotism--their favorite athletes and sports teams aroused. Includes a look at the role of American sportswriters, and live radio and television broadcasting of sporting events. 1998. 56 min. Video/C 5545

A State of Mind

Following a strict routine, which involves several hours of daily workouts and gymnastic instruction, two young North Korean girls practice through exhaustion for the 2003 Mass Games, the largest choreographed spectacle on earth. A mixture of cinema verite and essay filmmaking, the documentary includes images of state-regulated schools, pubs, artistic performances and glimpses into the hardships of average North Koreans' lives in a manner almost never permitted by the Pyongyang government. The film also explores how the brutal 1950s U.S. bombings still stand as a lingering trauma in this nation of 22 million. Produced and directed by Daniel Gordon. 2006. 94 min. DVD 5077

Trobriand Cricket: An Ingenious Response to Colonialism.

Discusses how the British game of cricket has been adapted by the Trobriands (Papua New Guinea).Filmmaker, Gary Kildea; director, Jerry W. Leach. 1975. 53 min. DVD 6641

Taking Picturues Video/C 4933

The Unforgettable Fifties: The Newsreels. 7, Sports.

Presents games and entertainments of the 50s starting with logging competitions, sand surfing, water and snow sports, stock car racing, rodeo, bull fighting, weight lifting, ping-pong, woman wrestlers, bike racing, kayaking, and other fun and games. These popular sports are followed by the golf scene with Ben Hogan, horse racing with Native Dancer, boxing with Sugar Ray Robinson, Wimbledon tennis with Althena Gibson, baseball's 18th all-star game, Don Larsen's perfect game, the N.Y. Yankees winning the world series, Army-Navy football, the running of the bulls and more. 57 min. Video/C 7693

Watermarks

The story of the surviving members of the Viennese Hakoah sports club women's swim team, a world-dominating competitor in the 1930s. The club was eventually shut down during Hitler's reign, though all the Jewish women swimming champions managed to escape capture. Combines historical footage and contemporary interviews to reconnect the women's lives and memories. Director, Yaron Zilberman. c2005. 77 min. DVD 4873

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