Believe

Year: 2014

Runtime: 96 min

Language: English

Director: David Scheinmann

Drama

In 1980s Manchester, football manager Sir Matt Busby hopes to find redemption by mentoring Georgie, an exceptionally talented but troubled 11-year-old player. As Matt guides Georgie and his team, he confronts his past and finds healing through the sport that has been central to his life since the tragic Munich air disaster. It’s a story about second chances and the inspiring ability of football to bring people together.

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Believe (2014) – Full Plot Summary & Ending Explained

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In 1984 Salford, Georgie Gallagher lives with his widowed mother, Erica. His passion for football is challenged by Erica’s wish to have Georgie attend the prestigious Lancashire Grammar School For Boys, run by the strict and scholarly Dr Farquar.

During an open day at the school, Georgie spots a leaflet for a regional Manchester Junior Football Cup tournament. Determined to enter and beat the team of school bullies, Georgie snatches a wallet from a stranger to raise the £20 entrance fee. The stranger happens to be an elderly Sir Matt Busby, and after tracking him down along with the help of his friend Bob, they learn that Georgie is an unusually talented footballer. Matt and Georgie reach an agreement whereby Matt will coach Georgie’s football team in exchange for silence over his theft.

Still needing the money to enter the football tournament, Georgie attempts to break into Dr Farquar’s house in order to steal back the tuition fee that Erica had been paying to ensure Georgie passes his entrance exam to the grammar school. He is caught and arrested, and banned from playing football as punishment.

The team finds an article in the paper about Sir Matt Busby and realizes that their coach is the famous manager of the legendary Manchester United team. Feeling betrayed by his team and Sir Matt Busby for not revealing his true identity before, Georgie quits the team and refuses to play in the final. Georgie is deeply hurt, feeling that all adults undoubtedly end up lying to him.

On the day of Sir Matt Busby’s 75th birthday, the team gears up to play the final, while Georgie takes his exam with hopes of passing and receiving his scholarship. Georgie urges Erica to attend the final to cheer on the team. Without their leader, the team is down by 2 goals. In a moment of grace, Dr Farquar interrupts the game with his beloved brass band, while Erica rushes to get Georgie to play the second half of the match. Georgie confides in his mother and says he wants to win the cup in honour of his late father. In the final moments of the game Georgie scores with a direct free kick to win the cup.

Last Updated: October 09, 2025 at 16:13

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Movies about Mentorship and Redemption like Believe

Stories where a troubled youth finds purpose through the guidance of an older mentor.If you enjoyed the powerful mentorship dynamic in Believe, you'll find similar stories here. This collection features movies where a guiding figure helps a younger person overcome adversity, focusing on themes of healing, sports, and positive role models for a heartfelt experience.

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Narrative Summary

The narrative follows a dual character arc: the mentor, who often grapples with their own past failures or grief, finds new purpose and redemption through teaching, while the mentee learns discipline, self-worth, and how to channel their talent or pain into something positive. The central conflict is typically internal, overcoming personal demons through the supportive relationship.

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Movies are grouped here for their shared focus on the transformative power of a cross-generational relationship. They share a hopeful tone, medium emotional weight, and a character-driven, steady pace that allows the bond to develop authentically, leading to a cathartic and happy conclusion.

Uplifting Underdog Sports Movies like Believe

Underdog sports stories that focus on emotional healing more than just winning.Fans of Believe looking for similar uplifting sports dramas will find them here. These movies share a focus on underdog teams or individuals where the sport is a vehicle for emotional healing, community bonding, and personal triumph, offering a steady, hopeful, and heartfelt vibe.

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Narrative Summary

Stories follow an underdog individual or team facing personal and external challenges. The central journey involves using the structure and camaraderie of the sport to work through emotional pain or build self-esteem. The final game or tournament serves as a cathartic climax that symbolizes emotional victory as much as, or more than, a physical one.

Why These Movies?

These films are connected by their specific blend of the sports genre with a strong, heartfelt dramatic core. They share a consistently hopeful tone, avoid excessive violence or darkness, and deliver a satisfying, happy ending that emphasizes emotional growth over pure competition.

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Believe Timeline

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Believe Spoiler-Free Summary

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More About Believe

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