In 2025, cinema continues to celebrate the timeless appeal of underdog success stories, where characters rise from adversity, defy expectations, and inspire audiences with their resilience and determination. These films often focus on individuals or groups who start with little or no advantage but overcome significant obstacles through courage, perseverance, and sometimes sheer luck. The best underdog success stories in cinema this year blend emotional depth, compelling narratives, and memorable performances, making them resonate deeply with viewers.
One standout film in 2025 is “Rise of the Underdog,” an Australian drama that tells the true story of a filmmaker who faces unjust imprisonment yet refuses to be broken by his circumstances. Directed, written, and starring Mack Lindon, this film captures the essence of the underdog spirit by showing how the protagonist transforms his darkest moments into a powerful cinematic testament of unwavering will. The story highlights themes of injustice, resilience, and creative triumph, making it a poignant example of an underdog narrative in contemporary cinema[2].
Another notable film that fits the underdog mold, though more in the action thriller genre, is “The Running Man,” directed by Edgar Wright. This dystopian film, based on Stephen King’s novel, features a protagonist navigating a brutal, oppressive environment. While it is more of a high-stakes survival story, the character’s fight against overwhelming odds and a corrupt system aligns with the underdog theme. The film received mixed to positive reviews, with praise for its energetic pacing and performances, particularly Glen Powell in the lead role. It exemplifies how underdog stories can be adapted into various genres, including action and dystopian thrillers[4].
Looking beyond 2025 releases, the tradition of underdog stories in cinema is rich and varied. Classic examples include “Rocky” (1976), where a small-time boxer gets a once-in-a-lifetime shot at the heavyweight championship, embodying the quintessential rags-to-riches tale. “The Pursuit of Happyness” (2006) portrays a struggling salesman who battles homelessness while raising his son, emphasizing perseverance and hope. “Slumdog Millionaire” (2008) follows a young man from the slums of Mumbai who defies his harsh environment to win a game show, highlighting talent and destiny. “October Sky” (1999) tells the story of a coal miner’s son who dreams of becoming a rocket scientist against his father’s wishes, illustrating the pursuit of dreams despite societal expectations. “Hidden Figures” (2016) celebrates three African-American women mathematicians at NASA who break racial and gender barriers during the space race. These films, among others like “Erin Brockovich” and “Cool Runnings,” have set a high standard for underdog stories by combining emotional storytelling with inspiring real-life or fictional accounts[1].
The appeal of underdog stories lies in their universal message: no matter how dire the circumstances, determination and courage can lead to success. In 2025, filmmakers continue to explore this theme with fresh perspectives and diverse narratives. Whether through true stories like “Rise of the Underdog” or genre films like “The Running Man,” audiences are reminded of the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity.
These films also often serve as social commentaries, shedding light on issues such as injustice, inequality, and the fight for recognition. For example, “Rise of the Underdog” not only tells a personal story but also critiques the justice system and the challenges faced by those wrongfully imprisoned. Similarly, “Hidden Figures” brought attention to the overlooked contributions of African-American women in science and history.
In addition to drama and action, underdog stories in 2025 also appear in other genres, including animation and coming-of-age tales. Films like “The Colors Within,” an animated story about teenagers exploring their identities through music, subtly incorporate themes of personal growth and overcoming internal struggles, which can be seen as a form of underdog success on an emotional and psychological level[3].
Overall, the best underdog success stories in cinema in 2025 continue to captivate audiences by portraying characters who rise above their limitations. These stories are told through a variety of cinematic styles and genres, but they all share a core message of hope, resilience, and the triumph of the human spirit. They remind viewers that success is often born from struggle and that the most memorable victories are those achieved against the odds.
