Bowling in Movies
Bowling in movies are often underrated, but they can be just as entertaining as any other genre of films. Whether it’s the excitement of a close match or the camaraderie between teammates.
There is something about bowling that makes for great movies. In this blog post, we will delve into some of the best movies about bowling to watch right now. Because the best bowling movies are what you are here for. Not Volleyball Movies.
The All-Time Greatest Bowling Movies (no gutterballs)
Great Bowling films have been around for decades, but some stand out as the all-time greatest. These movies have become classics and are still watched and loved by audiences today. One such movie is “The Big Lebowski” (1998), which has become synonymous with bowling.
The cult classic follows Jeff Bridges’ character, “The Dude,” who gets caught up in a kidnapping plot after mistaken identity at a bowling alley. Another hilarious comedy that makes the list is “Kingpin” (1996), which tells the story of a former bowling champion who mentors an Amish man to compete in a high-stakes tournament. These movies showcase why bowling movies are worth watching – they offer a unique blend of sports, comedy, and drama that can’t be found anywhere else.
Kingpin (1996)
In Kingpin, a washed-up bowler tries to revive his career and mentors an Amish man in the process. The movie boasts an ensemble cast that includes Woody Harrelson, Randy Quaid, and Bill Murray in memorable roles. The bowling scenes are over-the-top and hilarious, featuring outrageous characters and situations. It’s no wonder Kingpin has become a cult classic among both comedy lovers and bowling enthusiasts alike. If you’re looking for a fun and lighthearted bowling movie to watch, Kingpin is an entertaining choice that won’t disappoint.
Big Lebowski (1998)
The Big Lebowski is a movie that has become synonymous with bowling. The cult classic follows “The Dude” as he gets caught up in a case of mistaken identity and ends up involved with a group of eccentric bowlers. The bowling alley scenes are filled with memorable quotes, hilarious moments, and great music that make them some of the most iconic in movie history. With an all-star cast including Jeff Bridges, John Goodman, Steve Buscemi, and Julianne Moore, the film has become a favorite among bowling enthusiasts and movie lovers alike. Whether you’re a diehard fan or just looking for a good laugh, The Big Lebowski is definitely worth watching.
A League of Ordinary Gentlemen (2004)
A League of Ordinary Gentlemen is a documentary that offers an insightful glimpse into the world of professional bowling. The film provides an in-depth look at the lives of four bowlers as they compete in a national tournament, highlighting both their struggles and triumphs. Beyond just following their journeys, the documentary delves into the history and evolution of bowling as a sport, giving viewers a greater appreciation for its intricacies and challenges. A League of Ordinary Gentlemen is an entertaining and educational choice for anyone looking to learn more about this beloved pastime and the athletes who excel at it.
Split (2016)
In Split, the unique personality of the main character’s alter ego is showcased through his participation in a bowling league. The bowling alley scenes were shot at the Palace Bowling Lanes in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. However, this movie isn’t just about bowling; it also raises awareness about dissociative identity disorder and the mental health issues faced by the main character. With elements of suspense, drama, and humor, Split is an entertaining movie that combines a unique twist on bowling with a deep exploration of complex psychological issues.
Dreamer (1979)
Dreamer (1979) is a classic movie that captures the essence of bowling and its culture. The film follows a group of blue-collar workers who come together to form a competitive bowling team. Tim Matheson played the role of an up-and-coming professional bowler who tries to win a tournament against an established champion. The film was directed by Noel Nosseck and also stars Susan Blakely and Jack Warden. Another movie featuring Tim Matheson in a prominent role as a bowler is yet to be discovered.
Atom the amazing zombie killer
Atom the amazing zombie killer is a horror-comedy movie that features bowling as one of its themes. The plot revolves around Atom, who is an avid bowler and also a fan of horror movies. After suffering a head injury, he starts to believe that his life is a horror movie. The movie has gained popularity among viewers due to its unique combination of horror and comedy genres and its unusual take on the zombie theme.
Lars and the Real Girl (2007)
In Lars and the Real Girl, the bowling scene is a prime example of how this sport can be used. To convey powerful emotional themes. The protagonist, Lars, brings his life-sized doll into a small-town bowling alley and introduces her as his girlfriend. This unconventional scene highlights the importance of acceptance, community and friendship in our lives. At its core, bowling is much more than just a sport; it’s a social activity that can bring people together and encourage them to form deep connections. Through Lars’ interaction with his doll at the bowling alley, we see how even unconventional relationships can be celebrated in this supportive environment.
The Flintstones (1994)
Taking a step back into the Stone Age, The Flintstones (1994). It offers a unique and entertaining take on the world of bowling. In this prehistoric comedy, Fred and Barney form a bowling team, showcasing their skills in a bowling league. The film also features memorable scenes of them using unconventional techniques, such as using live animals as bowling balls. Beyond the humor, the movie highlights the values of teamwork and sportsmanship that are essential in any team sport. Overall, The Flintstones (1994) is a fun watch for both fans of bowling and those who appreciate classic cartoons.
Honorable Mentions: Lesser-Known Bowling Movies Worth Watching
If you’re a fan of bowling movies, there’s more to explore than just the classics. There are many lesser-known films that showcase the sport in unique and entertaining ways. “Kingpin” and “Splitting Hairs” are two comedies that offer a lighthearted take on bowling, while “A League of Ordinary Gentlemen” and “Roller Dreams” provide a more serious look at the sport. If you’re interested in learning about the culture and community surrounding bowling, documentaries like “League of Denial: The NFL’s Concussion Crisis” and “The Bowler’s Lounge” are worth checking out. Expand your horizons and discover some new favorites in the world of bowling movies!
The Bowling Alley-Cat (1942)
The Bowling Alley-Cat is a short animated film released in 1942 featuring the beloved cat and mouse duo Tom and Jerry competing against each other in a bowling alley. Despite its age, this classic cartoon remains an entertaining watch for all ages. The film showcases the classic humor and slapstick comedy that Tom and Jerry are known for, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a lighthearted bowling movie with a touch of nostalgia. So, if you’re in the mood for some old-fashioned fun, consider giving The Bowling Alley-Cat a watch.
Sorority Babes in the Slimeball Bowl-O-Rama (1988)
Sorority Babes in the Slimeball Bowl-O-Rama is a unique horror-comedy that puts a twist on traditional bowling movies. The film’s premise revolves around a group of college students who accidentally unleash an imp from a bowling trophy, leading to chaos and mayhem within the bowling alley. Despite its low-budget and B-movie status, Sorority Babes in the Slimeball Bowl-O-Rama is worth checking out for its over-the-top humor and creative use of the bowling alley setting. It’s a fun and entertaining watch for fans of both horror and comedy genres, making it stand out among other bowling movies.
The Future of Bowling in Movies and TV.
As streaming services continue to expand, the future of bowling in movies and TV looks bright. Filmmakers are increasingly recognizing the sport’s potential for storytelling beyond just strikes and spares. Bowling movies have evolved to explore deeper themes such as friendship, family dynamics, and overcoming adversity. In addition to comedy series centered around a bowling alley, upcoming projects include a biopic about professional bowler Earl Anthony. With more independent filmmakers showcasing their bowling-themed projects. We can expect to see exciting and innovative portrayals of this beloved pastime onscreen in the years to come.
Names in Bowling Movies
- Roy Munson
- Pete Weber
- Wayne Webb
- Christopher Browne
- Rod Daniel
- Ethan Coen
- Walter Ray Williams
- Sean Penn
- Ernie McCracken
- Pete Smith
- David Decoteau
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What movie has a bowling ball and pins?
Many movies have scenes with a bowling ball and pins. But one of the most iconic is the comedy classic “The Big Lebowski”. The film’s protagonist, Jeff “The Dude” Lebowski, spends much of his time at a bowling alley.
Bowling Center Conclusion
Whether you’re a hardcore bowling fan or just looking for a fun movie to watch, bowling movies are always a great choice. From classic comedy movies of all time like Big Lebowski to heartwarming dramas like Dreamer, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget the lesser-known bowling ball gems like The Bowling Alley-Cat and Sorority Babes in the Slimeball Bowl-O-Rama that are worth checking out too.
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