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Champions poster

Champions (2023)

Movie124minsRated M

IMDb6.7/ 10CTV score6.8/ 10

Where to watch Champions in Australia

Streaming availability data from JustWatch.

About Champions

A stubborn and hotheaded minor league basketball coach is forced to train a Special Olympics team when he is sentenced to community service.

Year
2023
Genres
Drama, Comedy, Sport
Runtime
124mins
Director
Bobby Farrelly

Champions trailer

Champions trailerPlay video: Champions trailer

What our critics think

Independent reviews from the Compare TV editorial team.

Review Team

★★★★★4/5

Champions, directed by Bobby Farrelly, presents a refreshing take on the sports genre, intertwining humour with poignant life lessons. The film follows a hotheaded minor league coach sentenced to community service, where he must train a Special Olympics basketball team. This premise sets the stage for a narrative that is both entertaining and deeply moving. The performances are commendable, with the lead embodying a character that evolves from self-centredness to genuine care for his team. The film's pacing allows for emotional moments to resonate, particularly during the climactic tournament scenes. Farrelly's direction shines in balancing comedic elements with heartfelt storytelling, making it a film that appeals to a wide audience. While it may tread familiar ground, Champions manages to stand out with its uplifting message and engaging character arcs. Overall, it’s a delightful watch that leaves you with a smile.

Editor Team

★★★★★3/5

Champions is a feel-good sports flick that delivers exactly what you expect but perhaps not much more. The story of a disgraced coach learning to appreciate the value of teamwork through training a Special Olympics basketball team is heartwarming, but it doesn't break new ground. The performances, while solid, sometimes feel overshadowed by predictable plot points. There are moments of genuine laughter and emotion, yet the film tends to lean heavily on clichés that can feel a bit stale. Farrelly’s direction is competent, but it lacks the spark that would elevate the film beyond its formulaic structure. While it's enjoyable and has its moments, Champions may leave some viewers wishing for a deeper exploration of its themes. It’s an easy watch, but don’t expect it to linger in your mind long after the credits roll.

How viewers describe this

  • heartwarming
  • uplifting
  • predictable
  • engaging
  • humorous
  • emotional
  • feel-good
  • inspiring
  • formulaic
  • enjoyable
  • charming
  • light-hearted

Streaming Charts

The JustWatch Streaming Charts are calculated by user activity from the last 24 hours.

Got a question about Champions?

Is Champions worth watching?

Champions is worth watching for its heartwarming portrayal of resilience and teamwork. The film cleverly balances humour and emotional depth, showcasing the growth of both the coach and the team. It offers a fresh perspective on sports films, making it an engaging experience.

What is Champions really about?

Champions follows a stubborn minor league basketball coach who is sentenced to community service, tasked with training a Special Olympics basketball team. Through this journey, the coach learns valuable lessons about empathy, acceptance, and the power of teamwork.

Is Champions suitable for children?

Champions is suitable for children, with its positive messages about inclusion and teamwork. While there are some mild themes related to personal growth and challenges, the overall tone is uplifting and encouraging for younger viewers.

What happens at the end of Champions?

Spoiler Alert: At the end of Champions, the team competes in a Special Olympics basketball tournament, showcasing their growth and unity. The coach, having transformed through his experience, finds a renewed sense of purpose and connection with the team.

What films are similar to Champions?

Films similar to Champions include 'The Mighty Ducks', 'Cool Runnings', and 'The Blind Side'. These films also focus on underdogs overcoming obstacles and the importance of teamwork and community support in sports.

Is it based on a true story?

Champions is inspired by real-life events, drawing on the experiences of Special Olympics teams and their coaches. While the characters may be fictional, the themes of perseverance and inclusion resonate with true stories from the Special Olympics community.

What is the critical reception of Champions?

Champions has received generally positive reviews from critics, praised for its heartfelt performances and comedic moments. The film's blend of humour and emotional depth has resonated well with audiences, making it a notable entry in the sports comedy genre.

Is there a sequel to Champions?

As of now, there has been no official announcement regarding a sequel to Champions. The film stands alone, but its themes and characters leave room for potential future stories if the creators decide to explore them further.