When I was a boy, the Olympic Games felt like they lasted the whole summer. As an adult, I can't believe how fast these two weeks have come to pass. And while I put together this list to scratch my athletes-performing-at-the-highest-level itch, all the following films are a great watch all year round.

1) Chariots of Fire 

Chariots of Fire is a timeless British drama released in 1981. The film follows the true stories of two British athletes competing in the 1924 Summer Olympics in Paris: Eric Liddell, a deeply religious Scottish Christian driven by his faith, and Harold Abrahams, an English Jew determined to triumph over prejudice. Directed by Hugh Hudson, the film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and features an iconic soundtrack by the legendary composer Vangelis.

2) Foxcatcher 

Foxcatcher is a 2014 film directed by Bennett Miller. The movie, starring Steve Carell, Mark Ruffalo, and Channing Tatum, is based on the true story of John du Pont, a wealthy heir who sponsors two Olympic wrestlers, Mark and Dave Schultz. It's a dark tale of corruption and paranoia that culminates in a tragic end. Foxcatcher received critical acclaim and sheds light on the darker side of the pursuit of Olympic glory.

3) I, Tonya 

I, Tonya tells the story of controversial figure skater Tonya Harding, portrayed by Margot Robbie in an Oscar-nominated performance. Directed by Craig Gillespie and released in 2017, this mockumentary black comedy offers a tongue-in-cheek look at Harding's rocky career. It includes her rise in the competitive skating world, her ex-husband's involvement in the infamous attack on fellow Olympic competitor Nancy Kerrigan, and the aftermath of these events. With its dark humor and intriguing storytelling style, I, Tonya provides a compelling and unconventional take on a notorious chapter in sports history.

4) Miracle 

Miracle is a 2004 sports drama directed by Gavin O'Connor that tells the true story of the U.S. men's ice hockey team's journey to victory during the 1980 Winter Olympics. Led by head coach Herb Brooks, played by Kurt Russell, the team of college players defied the odds and defeated the heavily favored Soviet Union team, a moment forever known as the "Miracle on Ice." It's one of the most memorable moments in ice hockey history and a source of national pride for Americans. 

5) Eddie the Eagle 

Eddie the Eagle is a heartwarming biopic directed by Dexter Fletcher and released in 2015. It stars Taron Egerton as Michael Edwards, better known as “Eddie the Eagle,” a British ski jumper who captured the world's attention with his determination and loveable persona at the 1988 Winter Olympics. The film follows Eddie's journey as he overcomes obstacles and extraordinary challenges to become the first British man to compete in Olympic ski jumping. With a blend of comedy, drama, and inspiration, Eddie the Eagle celebrates the spirit of a true underdog who defied the odds.

6) Race 

Race is a 2016 sports drama film directed by Stephen Hopkins. The movie tells the story of Jesse Owens, a legendary African-American track and field athlete who made history at the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin, Germany. Owens, portrayed by Stephan James, won four gold medals and was the most successful athlete to compete at that year's Olympics, dispelling Nazi Germany’s idea of Aryan supremacy. Race, which was brilliantly titled The Man That Humiliated Hitler in Greece, showcases Owens' courage, determination, and remarkable achievements while facing racism both at the Nazi-hosted Olympics and back home in the segregated United States. 

7) At the Heart of Gold: Inside the USA Gymnastics Scandal

At the Heart of Gold: Inside the USA Gymnastics Scandal is a documentary directed by Erin Lee Carr. Released in 2019, it's about the shocking story of the USA Gymnastics sex abuse scandal and the crimes committed by former team doctor Larry Nassar. Through powerful interviews with survivors, investigators, and others involved, the documentary sheds light on the systematic failures that allowed Nassar to abuse hundreds of young athletes for years. At the Heart of Gold is a difficult yet essential watch that uncovers the devastating truth behind one of the most significant sports scandals in history.

It's important to remember that greatness often comes at a significant cost. All athletes who compete at such a high level face immense pressure, gruelling training, and personal sacrifices that can take a toll on their mental and physical health. As we applaud their accomplishments, we must also advocate for their well-being, both on and off the world stage.