Movies About Bowling: A Guide To The Best Films

Introduction

Bowling is a classic American pastime that has been featured in many movies over the years. From comedies to dramas, there’s something for everyone in this list of the best movies about bowling. Whether you’re a fan of the sport or just enjoy a good story, these films are sure to entertain.

The Big Lebowski

Perhaps the most well-known movie about bowling is The Big Lebowski. This 1998 cult classic follows the story of Jeff “The Dude” Lebowski, a laid-back slacker who gets caught up in a kidnapping plot involving a millionaire with the same name. While the bowling alley scenes are not the main focus of the film, they play a significant role in the story and provide some of its most memorable moments.

Kingpin

Released in 1996, Kingpin is a comedy that follows the story of a former bowling champion named Roy Munson, played by Woody Harrelson. After losing his hand in a bowling accident, Munson becomes a down-on-his-luck hustler who takes a young Amish man under his wing and enters him into a high-stakes bowling tournament. This movie is filled with laughs and is a must-watch for any bowling fan.

The Flintstones

The Flintstones is a classic animated TV show that was adapted into a live-action movie in 1994. While the movie is not specifically about bowling, it features a memorable scene in which Fred Flintstone and his friend Barney Rubble compete in a bowling tournament against their rival, Cliff Vandercave. The scene is filled with slapstick humor and is a fun nod to the sport of bowling.

Split

Released in 2016, Split is a thriller that follows the story of three teenage girls who are kidnapped by a man with multiple personalities. One of the personalities is a skilled bowler who uses his skills to intimidate the girls. While the bowling scenes are brief, they add an eerie element to the film and make for a unique twist on the sport.

Cedar Rapids

Cedar Rapids is a comedy that was released in 2011. The movie follows the story of Tim Lippe, a naive insurance salesman who travels to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, for a convention. While there, he meets a group of eccentric characters, including a fellow insurance salesman who introduces him to the world of competitive hotel-room bowling. This movie is filled with laughs and is a great choice for fans of quirky comedies.

7-10 Split

Released in 2007, 7-10 Split is a comedy that follows the story of a young man named Jake who dreams of becoming a professional bowler. When he is offered a spot on a professional bowling tour, he must navigate the ups and downs of the competitive world of bowling. While the movie received mixed reviews, it is a fun choice for anyone who loves the sport of bowling.

A League of Ordinary Gentlemen

A League of Ordinary Gentlemen is a documentary that was released in 2004. The film follows four professional bowlers as they compete in the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) tour. The movie provides a behind-the-scenes look at the sport of bowling and is a great choice for anyone who wants to learn more about its history and culture.

The Break-Up

The Break-Up is a romantic comedy that was released in 2006. While the movie is not specifically about bowling, it features a memorable scene in which the two main characters, played by Vince Vaughn and Jennifer Aniston, compete in a bowling match against each other. The scene is filled with tension and humor and is a great example of how bowling can be used to add depth to a story.

The Perfect Game

The Perfect Game is a drama that was released in 2009. The movie tells the true story of a group of boys from Monterrey, Mexico, who become the first non-U.S. team to win the Little League World Series. While the movie is not specifically about bowling, it features a memorable scene in which the boys are introduced to the sport and use it to help them with their baseball skills. This movie is a great choice for anyone who loves underdog stories.

The Bowler and the Bunnet

The Bowler and the Bunnet is a documentary that was released in 2013. The film follows the story of two Scottish men, one who loves bowling and one who loves football (soccer), as they meet and form an unlikely friendship. The movie provides a unique look at the culture and history of Scotland and is a great choice for anyone who wants to learn more about the country and its people.

Kingpin Bowling Challenge

If you’re a fan of bowling movies, you might also enjoy the Kingpin Bowling Challenge, a reality TV show that premiered in 2020. The show features amateur bowlers competing in various challenges and is hosted by professional bowler and Kingpin star, Pete Weber. This show is a great way to see some amazing bowling skills and learn more about the sport.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a die-hard bowling fan or just looking for a fun movie to watch, these films are sure to entertain. From comedies to dramas, there’s something for everyone on this list of the best movies about bowling. So grab some popcorn, put on your bowling shoes, and enjoy these classic films.