Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Wickets: The Top 12 Movies Dedicated To Cricket

Cricket, often regarded as almost a religion in countries like India, has been a source of inspiration for countless movies and documentaries over the years. From thrilling dramas, to comedies, to heartwarming tales of triumph, these cinematic portrayals capture various aspects of the essence of cricket's rich culture and its impact on people's lives. 

In this article we go through the top 12 movies dedicated to the Gentleman’s Game ranked in accordance with their IMDB scores. Whether you're a cricket enthusiast or just a movie lover, these films are bound to bowl you over.

The movies listed here, many of them hailing from India or the West Indies, provide a diverse range of narratives, each with their own cultural imprint, reminding us of the profound influence of sports on individuals and societies and vice versa. 

They are an excellent companion to the 5 best cricket betting strategies for those interested in adding an extra layer of excitement to the game. Just remember, as in life and in the game, even if you find yourself on a sticky wicket, don’t do anything that isn’t cricket.

The Top 12

Now let’s look at these titles in a bit more detail:

1. Bodyline (1984) 

Bodyline, a miniseries directed by Carl Schultz, dramatizes the historic Ashes series of 1932-33 between England and Australia. The series captures the intense rivalry and the controversial "Bodyline" tactic employed by England to counter the brilliant Don Bradman.

2. Chale Chalo: The Lunacy of Film Making aka Madness In The Desert (2001) 

This documentary, directed by Satyajit Bhatkal, takes you behind the scenes of Lagaan, the Indian movie about cricket which is at number 3 on this list. It explores the making of the film and the challenges faced during production.

3. Lagaan: Once Upon a Time in India (2001) 

Considered by many to be the greatest cricket movie of all time, this tale is set in a small Indian village during Victorian times, where a group of locals challenges their British colonizers to a game of cricket to protest against unfair taxes. Directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, this film brilliantly blends cricket and a nation’s desire for freedom in a mesmerizing narrative. It is one of several cricket movies on Netflix.

4. Iqbal (2005)  

A heartwarming tale of a deaf and mute village boy's journey to becoming a professional cricketer. Iqbal, directed by Nagesh Kukunoor, is an Indian movie about cricket with a touching story of dreams and determination.

5. MS Dhoni: The Untold Story (2016) 

Directed by Neeraj Pandey, this biographical film delves into the life of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, one of India's most celebrated cricket captains. Sushant Singh Rajput delivers an unforgettable performance making this more than just a cricket movie.

6. Kai Po Che! (2013)  

Directed by Abhishek Kapoor, this film tells the story of three friends who start a cricket academy. Based on Chetan Bhagat's novel, it explores the complexities of friendship, ambition, and the game. It is yet another of several cricket movies on Netflix.

7. Fire in Babylon (2010)  

This documentary takes you through the legendary West Indies cricket team of the 1970s and 1980s. Director Stevan Riley showcases the team's rise to dominance and its profound impact on cricket and history.

8. Howzat! Kerry Packer's War (2012)  

This miniseries, directed by Daina Reid, unfolds the battle for supremacy between the established cricket authorities and Australian tycoon Kerry Packer's World Series Cricket.

9. The Edge (2019) 

Although not a cricket movie in the traditional sense, this documentary takes a deep dive into the mental health challenges faced by the England cricket team during the early 2000s.

10. Death of a Gentleman (2015)  

Death of a Gentleman is a documentary directed by Sam Collins and Jarrod Kimber. It sheds light on the controversies and challenges facing Test cricket, emphasizing the need to preserve the longer format of the game.

11. Wondrous Oblivion (2003)  

A touching British film that follows the life of David Wiseman, a young Jewish boy growing up in 1960s London. He becomes an avid cricket fan and forms an unlikely friendship with his Jamaican neighbors, who introduce him to the sport. The film explores themes of friendship, tolerance, and the transformative power of cricket in a multicultural setting.

12. Hit for Six (2007) 

A cricket-themed Barbadian drama that centers on the journey of Akshay, a talented young West Indian cricketer who overcomes personal challenges and financial obstacles to pursue his dream of playing cricket at an international level. The film delves into themes of determination, aspiration, and the influence of cricket on Caribbean culture.

Conclusion

The power of sports to excite forceful emotions in people has long been known and the world of cinema has not been left oblivious to this fact. Countless films have been made over the decades celebrating cricket and various other sports, bringing forth stories of triumph, hardship and the enduring spirit of humanity’s desire to be victorious against the odds.