The world of cinema —where dreams come true, and it seems, where footballers go to remind us their talents go beyond the football pitch. This phenomenon of footballers in film shows how versatile these athletes can be.
Let’s take a look at a surprising number of these athletes who have graced the silver screen – footballers in film.
1. Pelé
Movie: Escape to Victory – 1981
Pelé stars as Corporal Luis Fernandez, a talented POW who plays alongside other prisoners in a soccer match against the German army during WWII. The film has since become a classic, combining sports with an intense war setting.
2. David Beckham
Movie: Goal! The Dream Begins (and sequels) – 2005, 2007 and 2009
Beckham appears as himself, representing a pinnacle footballer that the protagonist, Santiago Muñez, admires and encounters as he pursues his dream of becoming a professional footballer. Beckham also appears in the film’s sequels.
3. Zinedine Zidane
Movie: Asterix at the Olympic Games2008
Zidane has a humorous cameo as “Numérodis,” a Roman footballer who participates in an Olympic competition. His appearance adds comic relief to this action-comedy based on the popular Asterix comic series.
4. Eric Cantona
Movie: Looking for Eric – 2009
Cantona plays himself in a pivotal role, guiding and inspiring a down-on-his-luck fan, Eric Bishop, who idolizes him. Cantona’s character acts as a mentor, encouraging the protagonist to find courage and purpose in his life.
5. Vinnie Jones
Movie: Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels – 1998
Known for his tough image, Jones plays Big Chris, a debt-collector in this gritty crime thriller. His performance here led to a successful acting career, with Jones often cast in “tough guy” roles across various films.
6. Ian Wright
Movie: Gun of the Black Sun – 2011
Wright plays a former footballer who gets drawn into a mystery involving a supernatural artifact. The film mixes elements of crime and horror, with Wright stepping into an unconventional role for a footballer.
7. Frank Leboeuf
Movie: The Theory of Everything – 2014
In this biographical drama about Stephen Hawking, Leboeuf appears as a doctor who treats Hawking. Though a small role, his performance was well-received and showcased his versatility as an actor beyond sports.
8. Thierry Henry
Movie: Entourage (film adaptation)- 2015
Henry plays himself in the movie adaptation of the popular TV show Entourage, where he interacts with the main characters at a party. His cameo adds a touch of glamour, blending football stardom with Hollywood.
9. Neymar
Movie: xXx: Return of Xander Cage – 2017
Neymar has a cameo in this action film, where he plays himself. His role involves a comedic moment where he skillfully uses a napkin holder as a weapon, showing off his skills and quick reflexes.
10. Raúl Jiménez
Movie: The Secret of Your Eyes (Mexican adaptation)- 2019
In the Mexican remake of the critically acclaimed The Secret in Their Eyes, Jiménez plays a small role. His appearance was a notable crossover moment for Mexican football and cinema.
So there you have it— footballers in film. The players strutting their stuff on the silver screen. Whether they’re flexing their muscles, delivering monologues, or simply trying to act like they know what to do with a script, they all remind us that the world of football is just as entertaining off the pitch as it is on.
Leave a Reply