This weekend families will be gearing up for the Super Bowl to watch the Carolina Panthers and the Denver Broncos fight for the coveted award. However, while audiences wait for the big game, here are five of the top movies to watch to prepare yourself.

1. "Concussion"- Perhaps one of the most talked about films this year, Will Smith's latest film tells the true story of a pathologist who discovers that football players suffer brain damage after repeated concussions. The film premiered at the AFI Film Festival and later Will Smith obtained a Golden Globe nomination. However, the film was snubbed at the Oscars even though Smith's performance was a highlight. The film comes at a time when the NFL is reviewing concussion protocol in the off-season. The Concussion protocol was brought up in December, at the same time when the movie was released, when Rams quarterback Case Keenum's head was slammed to the ground. As a result, this film is more than topical and one that should definitely be seen.

2. "Remember the Titans"- Denzel Washington has always been one of the most admired actors and he is one of the only black actors who has ever won two Academy Awards. This 2000 film was inspired by real events and was one of the most admired films of that year as it brought out racial issues that today still resonate. Still, the film shows the courage of a team that chooses to accept and integrate. Nominated for various awards, the film is one of the most inspirational sports movies in recent years.

 

3. "Rudy" - Sean Astin broke out in 1993 when he played the title character of Rudy. The film tells the story of a college football player who was too small for the sport but overcame the obstacles to play for his dream team Notre Dame. To this date the film still resonates with audiences and is considered one of the best sports movies of all time. Also starring Jon Favreau, this is a must see.

4. "Invincible"- Mark Wahlberg is one of the most beloved actors in Hollywood and this film saw him in a different type of character away from the action flick. Based a a real life story, Wahlberg plays Vince Papale, a bartender who overcame all the obstacles possible to be able to play for the NFL's Philadelphia Eagles, his lifelong dream. Like "Remember The Titans" this is one of the most inspirational sports films made in a long time and one that will be memorable to all sports fans.

5. "The Replacements"- In 2000 Gene Hackman and Keanu Reeves teamed up to make one of the most beloved comic football films. The movie tells the story of substitute players who are hired by football owners when there is a strike. While it was not beloved by critics, it is one of the few comic football movies in the market and one that resonates with audiences because of its characters and it's unlikely story.