Up the Game: 5 Best Sports Documentary Series on Amazon Prime
These five will show you that there's a lot more drama in sports than you may have thought.
Documentaries have gained momentum in recent years. But there seem to be so many that it's hard to focus on anything in particular. If you're tired of true-crime documentaries, try these five sports docuseries instead.
All or Nothing: Toronto Maple Leafs (2021, 5 episodes, 7.4 on IMDb)
Following the players and staff of one of Canada's most iconic hockey clubs, this docuseries offers a glimpse into the professional and personal lives of the current generation of the Leafs. Set in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, the series explores its impact on the players' lives, physical and mental health, while also documenting their successes and failures.
All or Nothing: The Michigan Wolverines (2018, 8 episodes, 7.6 on IMDb)
While the Michigan Wolverines are one of the largest university teams in the United States, competing in many sports, this documentary series follows the football team during the 2017 season. Coached by University of Michigan alumnus Jim Harbaugh, the Wolverines strive to win the season and uphold the university's legacy. At the same time, the series offers a glimpse into the personal lives and dramas of the players.
The Ride (2023, 8 episodes, 7.7 on IMDb)
Say what you will about bull riding, it is a demanding sport. Following the riders and their coaches through the 2022 season of the Professional Bull Riders Team Series, this docuseries shows just how much preparation goes into the dangerous craft. In addition to documenting the riders' daily routines as they prepare for the season, The Ride also delves into their personal lives and struggles.
All or Nothing: Manchester City (2018, 8 episodes, 8.1 on IMDb)
Another series in the All or Nothing franchise, this documentary follows the titular football legends during the 2017-2018 season, which was one of the best seasons in the club's history, winning two out of four trophies and breaking many records. Aside from Manchester City's success, the series also provides a behind-the-scenes look at the training process and the players' personal lives.
FC Bayern – Behind the Legend (2021, 6 episodes, 8.1 on IMDb)
This sports docuseries goes behind the scenes of one of Germany's most famous and secretive soccer clubs as it moves into the 2020-2021 season, starting with its huge success in Lisbon. As the team wins in the present, the series also delves into their history and past victories, creating a narrative of what has shaped FC Bayern over the years.