HOOSIERS - Opening Credits & Theme Song - 1986

Hoosiers is a 1986 sports film about a small-town Indiana high school basketball team that wins the state championship. The story is set during 1951/1952, when all high schools in Indiana, regardless of size, competed in one state championship tournament. It is loosely based on the Milan High School team that won the 1954 state championship.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hoosiers

[@bryanweber52]

The most underrated aspect of this movie is that you can FEEL the setting. It honestly feels like you're in the 1950's.

[@steveschrader9250]

Absolutely. And the music is key. Completes the movie

[@califinn]

50's, Midwest, Indiana right around basketball time, out in farmland...really is atmospheric.

[@MH-il1lk]

A constant I to IV chord progression gives that feeling.

[@alexhughes4294]

0:33 was me on my way to high school… That Indiana sunrise Never. Gets. Old.

[@jordan-xe2yb]

It’s great okay?

[@paulnelson7525]

There are certain movies that you grow up with and they become part of you. You can watch them over and over again. Hoosiers is one of those movies.

[@michaelbartosh8203]

I agree

[@Grassyknolldallas]

I played in a small town and we had 800 people in our little tiny gym, the energy was electric. We got beat but it was a great feeling to see all those people

[@100pmg]

Most definitely! My mom is from Indiana! We used to watch this film all the time!

[@stephenfermoyle4578]

yes and here i am again

[@shelbyesters5732]

I watch it atleast 4 times a year. Maybe more.

[@asneakychinchilla2820]

This was my dad's favorite scene in his favorite movie. Today is my very first Father's Day without him. I miss him so much. I hope to watch this flick every year in his memory... I love you, dad.

[@jeremyreasoner7787]

Bless your heart and his.

[@Amy.]

This movie reminds me of my late dad too because he recommended it to me.

[@rpm773]

I know that first one is tough - I'm sure a many other here have gone through it too.. Over time the sting goes away but the good memories don't..

[@marciat7465]

🙏🏿

[@asdfasdf7199]

God bless you and your family ❤❤

[@newjeffersonian6456]

The opening 4 minutes do as much to capture a place and time as anything ever put on film.

[@katey1dog]

Having Hoosier roots and seeing the ancestral Muncie, Indiana, I too feel and long for that nostalgia.

[@jeffryfowler2086]

@@katey1dog v

[@mikealangaloe1774]

A better place and time

[@jamesr.donovan7644]

Southern Indians in late fall

[@rickc16]

goosebumps!

[@Bluecloudprod]

I shed tears when I watch this... The hope and aspirations in this melody... Remind me of... A country and a time that is no more.

[@constancemiller3753]

They were real. I loved them.

[@jorgeespinosa3179]

😢so wholeheartedly agree

[@VickGos-yr2gi]

Tooo many immigrants

[@wmw3629]

@@VickGos-yr2giTypical despicable xenophobic hatred and ignorance

[@seank.cunningham3841]

@@VickGos-yr2gi Hm...Guess y'all didn't do good enough when it was your turn. Oh well. :/

[@musicfirst5020]

The most evocative opening of any film ever made. My mother grew up in small town like this in Oregon. Cheers to everyone here who has connections to a small town across America.

[@MrFanboyjay]

I actually am an Indiana boy, and this, to me, sure LOOKS like Indiana, but I still, to this day, don't know if this or ANY of the movie was filmed there.

[@wmw3629]

@@MrFanboyjayOf course the entire movie was filmed in Indiana

[@1912fld]

I just love this opening. It takes you back to that time period when things were much simpler. I can't believe the movie is 30 years old now. Wow, how time flies.

[@MarkSmith-hf5nh]

As I get older...the sadder the open feels to me...I wish I could go back.

[@bellazoe1]

Could not agree more. Peak America here

[@DavidARubio-ro9ig]

Zed, Having grown up and lived in Detroit and SE Michigan for 34 years, those opening scenes look very much like where I grew up. They speak to me of crisp fall mornings, hard working people who are direct and to the point. A cousin who’s a tax partner in the Manhattan office of Deloitte told me once that the Big 8-now Big 4-always liked recruiting in the Midwest because of the reliable, hard working people there. I left 22 years ago but I’ve always felt fortunate that I grew up in that part of the country.

[@SuperChuckRaney]

I like it because the best trophy they own says Runnerup '49 .....

[@thewolf5620]

I actually grew up and live where all of the scenes for Hickory and these driving scenes were filmed. It’s still like this.

[@TexasDragon]

The only movie where I tear up at the opening credits because of knowing the amazing feat that will be accomplished

[@christopherfoote4643]

Too bad it's just a Hollywood production. I don't think there's a lot of truth to it. But that's the magic of movies. They take you to another world where anything is possible.

[@reelfan-16]

One of the best movies ever made. This music gives me goosebumps every time! ❤️❤️❤️

[@IU90]

Quite simply the best sports movie ever made.

[@100pmg]

My mom is from Indiana. She was actually a cheerleader at this high school in the 60s! We used to watch this movie all the time when my sibs and I were kids! Love Jerry goldsmith!

[@umbertocalvini7429]

Jerry was a grossly underrated composer! 💙 many of his movie scores! 👏👍🤩

[@doogboh]

Jerry Goldsmith is the best film scorer who ever lived.

[@natemarean8787]

My mom graduated there 64 I believe. She grew up on 350 toward Aurora, near Mt Sinai. They might know each other!!

[@natemarean8787]

We watched this a lot as kids as well!

[@lynnf.9440]

This soundtrack is as special as the movie. One of the best ever made and many of the casts were actual townspeople who were not actors. What an amazing piece of cinema and outstanding acting by Gene Hackman, Dennis Hopper and Barbara Hershey!

[@justinmcquaide4862]

I 100% agree with you it’s in my top 2 movies of all time !!!

[@kendallrivers1119]

@@justinmcquaide4862 What's the other?

[@justinmcquaide4862]

@@kendallrivers1119 The karate kid

[@Royboy140]

Still one of the best movies in cinema history!

[@ptmohr22]

Not even close

[@spacefieldtime]

absolutely one of the top 10 in movie history; Hackman at his best...

[@Royboy140]

I agree 100% for me personally it'll always be at the number 1 position, the cinematography, acting, plot its all just so excellent

[@Fox_Pajama]

Pat Mohr As a cinephile, I have to agree, despite my immense love for this film.

[@lonerunner89]

As for the sports genre of filmmaking it's the best ever! So you're damn right, it is one of the best films ever made.

[@shawnabplanalp9688]

I've lived my whole life in Indiana and grew up addicted to basketball. It was the most important thing in my life until my kids were born. It then became a close second. I remember like it was yesterday when they were having auditions for the Hickory Huskers only a mile or so from where i lived. I still played pick up games until I was 46 when a car accident ended my playing days. I thank God for this wonderful movie. It takes me back to my prime when I would play this opening song right before I headed out to the court. Love this movie.

[@rolsonDotcom]

This was the last movie I saw with my dad when it came out in 1986. This opening is burned into my head. I grew up in Illinois and at that time and even though the movie is set in Indiana...Iowa, Illinois and Indiana pretty much look like this. Driving as far as the eye can see. No one around for miles except a random farm house or small church or chapel. Life in those one traffic light towns is soooo simple. I wish we as a nation could get back to those simpler times. I hate what we have become.

[@donmorris7225]

I agree with all the credits for this movie.The opening soundtrack is so compelling that I can play it while going to sleep .It completely relaxing me.Greaer time

[@roccocontrino2502]

"Hoosiers" has long been one of my favorite movies with one of my favorite musical scores.

[@georgemallory797]

We've got to fight to keep what is ours before it is all taken away. I do it every chance I get even though it doesn't earn me a lot of friends.

[@tonyrehal218]

I totally agree with you. I grew up in Iowa but now have lived in Florida for 22 years. Gene Hackman is originally from Illinois. Every time I go back to visit my family in the Midwest I get this opening score running through my head. It’s a very solemn or melancholy feeling. Hoosiers is one of my favorite films of all time.

[@roberthightower9889]

Western Ohio is the same

[@CharlesR7]

Very underrated film. Music is amazing. Story is amazing. Always reminds me of the days playing basketball with my old team. Wont be forgotten.😌

[@PlyrJM25]

My Grandpa played basketball at this time. He played sort of a two guard, and actually lost to Muncie Central in 1948 in Semi-State. The next year he was undefeated, and I think won the Allen County Tournament two years running. He would have went to Indiana, had he not missed my Grandma. He died about 7 years ago; however this movie makes me think of him. This music also gets me pumped for just about anything.

[@celticwarrior5185]

Without question, one of my favorite movies of all time. Gene Hackman performance is nothing short of brilliant.

[@hotatp]

Such a beautiful opening and set up for the coach, coming out of the darkness and into this beautiful light of a new beginning , we feel like we are in the car with him going along for the ride, and what a ride he takes us on in this amazing film.

[@tommytruth7595]

This movie was the best ever to depict the 50's. They nailed everything correctly-----the people, the clothes, cars, the schools. It was like getting in a time machine for a trip back to America when it was at its best.

[@davidpetersen6456]

Yeah segregated schools and "whites only" drinking fountains. The best! Seriously, this era had so many problems. Stop romanticizing it.

[@Nimgimmer1492]

@@davidpetersen6456 Chill, buddy. It's just a movie, not a social statement. Sheesh.

[@davidpetersen6456]

@@Nimgimmer1492 I have no problem whatsoever with the movie. I've seen it dozens of times and it's one of my favorites. My comment was addressing the original poster's comment that things were completely awesome 6 or 7 decades ago, and that simply is not the case. Many look at the past through rose colored glasses and refuse to see that there were significant problems in bygone eras.

[@newjeffersonian6456]

I keep coming back again and again to watch this opening sequence and hear the beautiful theme music. It's not just Indiana but so much of the landscape of America and its small towns that these scenes evoke.

[@coopermacy8243]

I always watch this movie when I am sick because it makes me feel better every time.

[@USAR8888]

Never seen a movie capture the Midwest better than this one. I grew up in a rural farm town in Illinois, and this scene more than any just captures the feeling of home to me. Love this scene so much, the music, the atmosphere, the sunrise over the fields, barns with basketball hoops nailed to them, iconic Midwest.

[@leelaural]

grew up in upstate NY....the cool crisp autumn mornings....the endless trees with their brilliant colors and the sweet smell of fallen leaves, and the wonderful autumn sky....the importance of basketball to small towns or large towns with good hard working simple people.....the reminder of what teenage boys used to be like....the "yes sirs" and "no sirs" and your dad was the absolute boss, no questions.....

[@rolsonDotcom]

lee laural Isn’t it the truth about boys and how they used to be and Dads had automatic respect. Something which is sorely missed these days.

[@jamesr.donovan7644]

Wonderfully said

[@aaronorgill245]

With no dialogue or any fancy effects, these first few minutes capture so much about that time and place. The cinematography and musical score give you such a feeling of melancholy and the loss of a bygone era. I loved this movie from the very first time I saw it as a kid, and it holds up every single time. It blows me away that such a low-budget, under-the-radar film that nobody expected to be more than a generic sports movie could be such a lasting success. If any frame of this movie is playing and I happen to show up, I'll probably watch to the end unless I'm dragged away.

[@ccarrier737]

I have lived my entire life in Indiana. Grew up playing basketball in so many places like this. Still take my kids over to "Hoosier Gym" where this was filmed not far from our house just to shoot around and enjoy time together. My wife was even an extra in the gym crowd during filming while in high school. Now, a new job is taking our family to Florida. We will miss the Midwest so much. At least I know when we get home sick we can watch "Hoosiers" and remember the things which made Indiana so special to us for all these years. Very grateful for this movie and all it means to those who understand the values of small town America.

[@marks926]

There really is more than corn in Indiana! : )

[@rosenbergartphotos]

For what it is worth to you, I have published a large lithographic art print, 'America's Game,' of two boys playing basketball on the side of a barn in Beanblossom. You can see it on my Facebook gallery page, or contact me directly: Myron Rosenberg, [phone] I presented a framed one to Bobby Knight, and he went nuts; but, I concede, that for him it didn't take much... facebook.com/rosenbergartphotos/photos/a.440444372684083.104196.114402648621592/440502199344967/?type=3&theater

[@awaken2c]

There is something about living in a small town that you miss. People never change, makes you feel real solid, and peoples business are pretty much their own. (something like that) :-)

[@ronniebishop2496]

Dan McGlaun You know no matter where you go or how long, it's going to be there if you come back.

[@indy_go_blue6048]

I had the chance to be an extra but couldn't come up with '50s clothes (you had to provide your own if you were an extra.) I still regret missing the opportunity.

[@pablomb800]

For a basketball lover, this film is pretty much like a monument. The last scene made me cry. Simply a Masterpiece

[@martinbarbano4064]

Every time Pablo! Seen it hundreds of times.

[@jordan-xe2yb]

@@martinbarbano4064yeah guys!!!!!!

[@88Seska]

It's only the beginning credits and already, I want to cry; Such a great movie!

[@glovesave23b]

I love this song...one of my favorite movie themes of all time

[@alvarolozano711]

i feel emotion when i ear this soundtrack

[@jimdonovan5520]

Nothing has ever better captured late fall in southern Indiana

[@Vange-kw4ye]

This wasn't just a great film it was an experience. It brought you to a time and place like very few others could.

[@mustang587]

This is beautiful and relaxing, it makes me miss Indiana, the farmers fields are always so calm and quiet, and the church on the one corner is the way every corner should be. Thanks

[@steviesevieria1868]

Miss Indiana, Miss Vermont, Miss Oregon, they are all babes!

[@nivagnoswal]

this has got to be one of the most beautiful and moving openings to a movie i've ever heard or seen...great movie too...i watch every once in awhile and it never wears out...jerry goldsmith was among the best at what he does....

[@TheWarrior2Game7]

Around the country, basketball is a game. In Indiana, it's a way of life.

[@disciple5150]

I grew up in Sheridan Indiana where they filmed part of the movie. I went to school with the 2 guys playing basketball by the barn. I love that I can just watch this and see things in the town exactly as they were. This movie captures Indiana perfectly. The scenes where Gene Hackman is on the farm feel just like home. The people of these small towns are good hard working people.

[@roothogordie1451]

I grew up in a place like this, in the 50s and 60s. I go back from time to time. This opening scene cinematography, with the leaves, the misty fallow fields, the people sparsely scattered on the landscape, those old farm trucks, that school building. Jerry Goldsmith's great score. It hits me in the feels.

[@MrSteveblue824]

This beautiful opening scene of 1950’s Indiana is the most wonderful example of zeitgeist.

[@jakethemuss3]

Greatest sports movie ever made. A beautiful soundtrack as well.

[@andersryden8979]

I feel a special connection to this movie, as Hoosiers was supposedly my Grandpas favorite film. I never got to know my Grandpa, as he died several years before I was born in May of 2002, however, whenever I watch this film, i think of him.

[@jeffhaynes4343]

Die hard Kentucky fan but giving a big eyebrow SALUTE to this theme song, this movie changed my life as a young man and here today at 37 knowing that this movie as young man would stay with me. Jimmy chitwood your the man

[@gregherried5189]

Jerry Goldsmith should have received another Oscar for his Unforgettable score to this movie starring the wonderful Gene Hackman and Barbara Hershey mr. Goldsmith was known for his Jagged rhythms and he uses them beautifully here it's one of his best music scores in one of my favorite sports movies

[@georgemallory797]

This song is hauntingly beautiful.

[@bobrafferty7642]

Absolutely amazing! Can never get tired of watching this film! #1 sports movie all time! The opening to the movie when I saw it as a 11 year old kid in November 1986 was unreal!

[@wadebaker2910]

This movie reminds me of my old high school up in Arkansas. Our school was one of those 1A non football schools who never won a state championship. Basically an underdog. But in 2010, our school finally won that state championship that was in years of earning. Many times, the Wonderview Daredevils have tried making it, but they always came up short. That state championship game that my school played in was almost like the championship in the movie. But all it took was a blocked shot and the Daredevils won it. Now when I watch the ending, I get a bit teary eyed thinking about that day we won the big one. I may not be from Indiana, but this movie kinda speaks for all those underdog schools who never won anything more than a district game

[@SuperChuckRaney]

There are some really small schools in Texas that play 6 man football. Glad you guys had your time in the sun.

[@martinbarbano4064]

Merle: “Yeah. Let's win this one for all all the small schools that never had a chance to get here.” Coach Dale: Okay.

[@jeanmolen7389]

I grew up in Milan and graduated in 1951. The original Hoosier boys were freshman when I was a senior. In a small school you knew everyone. Some of the players on that team has siblings in my class. I was in England in 1954 with Military husband but my Mom sent complete newspapers to me which I really enjoyed. The game was mentioned in the Military newspaper. Was in Milan for the museum and got to see some of the players.Great movie and so special for all of us who graduated from the great Milan school. Have a tape of the original game. Have watched it many times, and enjoy it more each time.

[@slyspy9819]

I can't imagine how you must have felt watching the story of your life come to the big screen , that's crazy

[@RichBaum]

I was the assistant Prop Master for this movie and spend about 6 months for the filming in IN and must say we were very surprised when this film was so acclaimed.. shows just how important a great soundtrack is and how it can totally save a film. So great to see so many people loved this movie and our / the crew's hard work.. I do remember it raining every day of October and there was a, Ice Storm on the last day of filming.. Drove back to CO on solid Black Ice the whole way...

[@CaminoAir]

Rich Baum. I'm Irish and have never been to Indiana. What I thought worked so well in this film is the low-key approach that grounds the film in every way and the attention to details (so it never feels formulaic), as well as the technical skill of the film making. The film also looks and sounds great. As a long time Jerry Goldsmith fan I'm fully aware of what a music score can do to enhance a film, but without the score this is a well crafted film in every way and Hackman is excellent as Coach Dale.

[@indy_go_blue6048]

I live about 20 miles NE of New Richmond where you filmed most of this movie. I can tell you that it's not hard to find places nearby that, other than the stores (no 7-11s, Dollar Generals then) and the cars look almost exactly like your opening.

[@danmcglaun1]

@@CaminoAir I've lived in Indiana for almost 50 years, and have traveled the state extensively. This opening scene captures it, and it is one of the most amazing pieces of cinema to capture the essence of our land that there is. It's hard for me to watch without getting emotional. What a wonderful job they did.

[@dredgecrane7703]

This theme is honestly the best

[@ICUTGRASSLLC]

I remember seeing this movie when I was a young man in high school. The magic of basketball was everything. Had no idea back then how much this movie would come to mean to me later in life.

[@williamwallace1307]

This movie reminds of how I grew up. From the school's wood floors the town church the people the teachers the scenery of the fields the caravan of cars following the bus, everything. I don't believe its like that anymore in this country and that's too bad.

[@AmySmith-et6le]

Hi, im from the UK and believe that you have the greatest country in the world. i adore everything about it, especially this era of the 50s that you speak of.

[@williamwallace1307]

+Amy Smith Thank you Amy Smith!

[@pabassfisherman]

So true in that it's no longer like that anymore. And your right, it's a shame. Small home towns like one in the movie are the best. I miss the way America use to be. The music is beautiful set to the movie.

[@SuperChuckRaney]

Some towns in Texas, still follow the bus to the football game.

[@johnhilyard3645]

The music in this movie, field of dreams, rudy, chariots of fire are all so good

[@SLYSPYHIWAY90]

God bless OUR small town America. It is who we are, ,May it never disappear.

[@georgemallory797]

This comment choked me up because we are starting to lose our country. God bless our USA.

[@slyspy9819]

Hey George , As I watch the opening credits I think of a slower quieter time that was America where you knew and cared for your neighbor . As the world changes so does America , immigrants will always come to America just as they always did because what we have here is great not perfect but still great . This movie takes you back as a reminder if only for a moment

[@michaelbrinkers1145]

But a movie sequel is now being planned, based on a screenplay by David Lynch to be directed by Quentin Tarentino, "THE RETURN OF THE HOOSIERS: NEW BEGINNINGS", where the coach's son arrives to teach in the old Indiana high school his dad (Gene Hackman) coached, but has an obstacle in one student: a blind, black, lesbian, muslim girl who is only 3-feet tall, tries but fails to qualify for the boy's basketball team.....sues the school, wins her case.....and becomes the star player...winning the hearts of the community....and the audience. ACADEMY AWARDS FOR EVERYONE!!!!!

[@georgemallory797]

@@michaelbrinkers1145 This really made me laugh.

[@michaelbrinkers1145]

@@georgemallory797 Sigh....when everyone one gets a medal...no one wins.

[@alvarolozano711]

The BEST movie and soundtrack that i listening in my Life, awesome.❤

[@VIKING33NY]

Gene Hackman...as an actor, there is NO equal!!! He is the Man!!!

[@aaronorgill245]

I have missed him so much for the last 15 years since he retired. It's amazing to think he expected this role to be a career killer.

[@MultiCool1983]

I, myself is a huge Illini fan, but this is a great movie. There is so much history behind, not only Indiana basketball, but all high school basketball as well. The greatest sports movie ever made!

[@MikeMicable]

I absolutely love this film. Top 10 definitely.

[@celticwarrior5185]

MikeMicable Agree 💯.

[@Noah-mi5xv]

I consider myself as an European and I could never live in USA but I admire and respect Americans and this movie shows part of America that I really like. Great movie with great actors. Greetings from Europe, Slovenia.

[@TickleMeElmo55]

Why can't you picture yourself never living in the US, even for a year or two?

[@Konkonsoy]

something about driving in the early morning on a lonely road in a brisk morning air chilly but so cozy, those smells that remind you of your childhood, honestly how can you have an experience like that and not smile, watching this, i can almost smell that fall breeze and feel the wind, cinema at its all time best, gene hackman you are an amazing man with a god given gift, thank you for inspiring me and so many others with your talent.

[@_JellyDonut_]

"We're gonna run the picket fence at 'em... Now boys, don't get caught watching the paint dry"

[@cumulus1234]

Jelly Donut I believe later on that became known as the Motion offense.

[@_JellyDonut_]

​@@cumulus1234 I'm pretty sure motion is actually older. Supposedly it dates back to the 20's and 30's. I've always thought of the picket fence as more of a set play than an offense. You stack 4 guys on the same side of the key (hence the name) whereas in motion offense the floor is balanced. One thing is for sure, when you can shoot like Jimmy either one will work just fine :)

[@cumulus1234]

You have some knowledge about this and it looks to me like the picket fence is a form of screens that are used today. Is that the case?

[@_JellyDonut_]

@@cumulus1234 Yeah that's right. If you watch Reggie Miller or Steph Curry highlights I'm sure you'll see it. In the movie the screeners are standing right next to each other but nowadays I think it's more common to stagger the screens. Also I was wrong, Jimmy is the passer in this scene and not the shooter... kzbin.info/www/bejne/eWOsfYarhrSge8k

[@hkhilner]

Beautiful score by Jerry Goldsmith

[@alvarolozano711]

amazing theme

[@paulpatane2439]

Name?

[@markelijio6012]

@@paulpatane2439 "Hoosiers."

[@texasgirl19471]

Wonderful, wonderful movie...We have it on DVD and watched it today...The music just fits the movie and the movie takes us back to a simpler time...I watch it every chance I get...

[@shinio1]

My father and mother's Indiana and values of a heartland people that resonates for anyone who has lived here and loved here. Beyond my time, may Indiana become its own country, because if ever there was a state where you will see those values still in front of your eyes and hands, it is here in Indiana. A humble, proud Hoosier....

[@eiffelforyou4147]

I was born in the Fall of 1952 near Louisville. Some of my fondest early memories are of traveling with my grandparents to visit my Great-Grandmother in the very small town of Irvington, KY. about every two months in their 1948 maroon Dodge which they had until 1969. This film, especially the outdoor and opening scenes with that evoking sweet music, seems as familiar as my own memories. Have loved this movie since '86. Watch it every Fall. What's really cool now is our son lives in Bloomington, Indiana, and married a girl from Linton, the high school the "Huskers" defeated to go on to the State Tournament. And it's almost a three-hour drive to visit them only because we choose to go up the Indiana back roads rather than I-65. : )

[@billnumber3324]

Talk about a soundtrack, especially for the opening, that perfectly sets the tone of the film better than dialogue ever could. This is up there with my most favorite film soundtracks.

[@umbertocalvini7429]

Jerry Goldsmith was a grossly underrated composer!

[@dramedy2001]

Where the hell were the Oscars when this film came out? Best score? Not even a nod? Unfathomable.

[@markelijio6012]

According to Monica Mancini from New York in 1997 and said, "Hoosiers was nominated for 2 Oscars in 1987, more than any other film in Orion"s history. Dennis Hopper received his second nomination for best actor in a supporting role and Jerry Goldsmith received his fifteen nomination for best original score."

[@JuliusJEThompson]

Great motivational movie...Great moments are born from great opportunity!!

[@robtaylor8577]

I'm not from Indiana and basketball was never my favorite sport. However, this is probably my favorite sports movie of all time. I got chill bumps on more than one occasion watching it and still do. I've watched this movie several times. The fact that it is based upon a true story even makes it more compelling. I guess if you don't come from a small town like I do you don't get it. It's an amazing story within itself but an actor like Gene Hackman makes it epic. The music , the pastoral scenery, the innocence of the time and the nostalgia. This movie epitomizes the America I know or once knew. Very few movies actually capture the true nature and passion of high school sports or sports in general like this one. Football is my favorite sport but Friday Night Lights doesn't hold a candle to Hoosiers.

[@ethanroebuck7203]

When i dream about the moonlight on the Wabash... How i long for my indiana home. These two songs go hand in hand for me. Jim Nabors at the Indy 500 and Hoosiers are what make me miss my home land more than anything. Cant wait to graduate so i can go back to where i belong. Funny how Indiana isnt particularly the most interesting place. But something about it just calls for me to return.

[@W7DSY]

I'm not from Indiana, but I get what you mean.

[@tritonrocks]

Best damn sports movie ever. End of story.

[@DARTHDOUGY]

As filmmaker, I love this opening...the dawn of a new day.

[@britoh23]

I love this show especially growing up in a small town playing basketball and being a part of a community it’s an amazing feeling. This song makes me think of home and how special small towns are to the townsfolks.

[@jimfranks3640]

Making this movie at Butler Fieldhouse, they asked for Hoosiers all over the state to come in to participate. As it were, quite a few hoosiers did come but not enough to fill up that cavernous ballyard. As incentive, the movie honchos promised to give away that chevy that Gene Hackman drove in the movie. They would shoot a scene, then have everyone move to a different spot in the bleachers to make it appear to be maximum capacity. Take my word for it.. it was full... I was there and we couldnt get tickets to get inside.. had to listen to the game on car radio. Brooks auto body here in Muncie (played by So Bend Central in the movie) did quite a bit of restoration on that chevy to make it look new. Great movie. That state championship bonded communities togetherm win or lose. I wouldnt trade my time here for any other period.... very well done.

[@zackerypainter7881]

I love this movie! They played this before the game at the Indiana Basketball semi-state game

[@frankmilitary]

That opening shot of a car’s headlights approaching from a distance was actually a call back to a similar scene in Silver Streak which Goldsmith also scored, though in that film it occurs midway rather than the opening shot. Both films used the shot as a way to build the music from softer notes as the vehicle is far away and then give you the full sound as the car goes past. Very well done in both cases. Hoosiers has a fantastic and emotionally uplifting score!

[@frankmilitary]

I believe this is the scene... kzbin.info/www/bejne/fGWcqnVsm6t6eKM

[@tuanasi]

I put on this song for my wife and kids when we drove through Indiana last year.

[@MrGeorgeE3]

Thankyou Marle, I'm glad this brought back fond memories. My dad's family was from a small town in northern Indiana between Elkhart and South Bend. This is a very touching story and very inspirational. It's one of my Dad's favorites.

[@cumulus1234]

MrGeorgeE3 I am fairly sure that I read somewhere that John Wooden recruited around 6-7 players over the years from Muncie Central when he was the UCLA coach.

[@jalejale1103]

Absolutely LOVE this movie and song my favorite opening theme to any movie my dad showed me this movie and I love it so much even though I’m 15 I love all these old movies wish people made more movies like these in this generation!

[@Camry23]

Coach Norman Dale making the long trek from Ithaca, NY to Hickory, IN. One of the great opening scenes in movie history. It really sets the stage for the entire story.

[@michaelbartosh8203]

This movie inspires me. That’s why I love this movie 🍿

[@CaminoAir]

I saw this on VHS in 1987. The European title was 'Best Shot'. I rented it as I was a big Jerry Goldsmith fan. The movie is so well grounded that I was surprised when they won the final. I thought they would loose, but fulfill Hackman's "in my book we're going to be winners" speech. It has a real sense of time and place and the 1950's illusion is seamless. The players all grow on you as the movie continues and you are willing them on in each game. The games themselves are excitingly filmed and scored. Even as a non-American I rewatch this movie every few years.

[@stevenwatchorn9816]

Jerry Goldsmith is able to evoke rural life of thirty years before this film was released, even using modern (for 1986) synthesized instruments (including ones which sound like country sounds, such as bird calls).

[@michaelbartosh8203]

One of my favorite sports movie ever I can watch it over and over again.

[@ThisisTedWells]

The nostalgia is overwhelming

[@martinbarbano4064]

J wells?? From the small town of Clayton?

[@bradkays4514]

Best opening sequence in cinema history....period!(IMO☺)

[@donaldschmidt2990]

Beautiful, Exquisite Theme Music. Jerry Goldsmiths Score sets the tone for one of the most charming, uplifting movies ever made. You literally are transported to Rural Indiana of the 1950s with every note. The quality of the Cinematography matches perfectly with the Timeless Soundtrack. On a scale of 1 to 10, it's a 12. This Theme should have won an Oscar in a Cakewalk.

[@brianbaumgarn5795]

this movie is so cathartic for me. much of Indiana is like my home in Ohio. this music takes me there, back to my childhood. when the movie came out I had about one and one half years in recovery from alcohol. the scenes between norman dale and shooter, and his son just reduced me to tears emotionally. the movie and all about it are classic and I now have 28 plus years sober. shooter said basketball was so special to me.....shooter was so special to me, also

[@StsFiveOneLima]

Having come from this land, and having gone back to it, time and again, and having watched the sun rise and set on the fields, and dance on the highways, and the leaves swirl around my vehicle, I must say that not one person ever made more perfect music for this place except Jerry Goldsmith.

[@beowulf3303]

The greatest spots move ever!! So happy my parents took me to the movie theater when I was a kid to see this! I have watched dozens of times since!

[@howardpreston2033]

So evocative of that era: the old Chevrolet with its sun visor and steering wheel knob, the two-lane road through the rural countryside, and the roadside culture of churches and small town memorabilia. Wow!

[@katiewilliams5643]

I was 8 years old when this movie came out but I didn’t see it till I was about 10 years old it’s become one of my all times favorite sports movies hoosiers is fantastic I don’t know how many times I’ve seen this movie it’s just so good growing up Indiana basketball has always been big I love it except during this pandemic I haven’t been able to watch it this season it sucks but it makes me appreciate things a little more I love this movie it’s one of my favorites

[@Grassyknolldallas]

This movie couldn’t of captured small town basketball any better than it did and how big a deal it was and still is in many small towns across America. Every year in late October I watch this movie about 12 times in preparation for basketball

[@vccstudents]

Gene Hackman is one of those actors who's always in a good movie and can carry a not-so-good one. He was a perfect choice for this role. This was awe inspiring! I'll bet he's glad Sherwood Schwarz didn't get his way and have him cast as Mike Brady on "The Brady Bunch."

[@jordan-xe2yb]

I really like this comment.

[@nathandm1917]

As a little kid, I didnt think really twice about this movie, but now when I watch it again in my mid 30's I fully realize that this is the best sports movie of all time. I've probably seen it 4 times now and each time I enjoy it so much more.

[@time.7480]

H-I-C-K-O-R-Y! I just needed to see how it sounded in this venue. Best movie of all time....and I'm just an on the surface basketball fan.

[@martinbarbano4064]

One of the best scenes!!!

[@christopherpelll3602]

One of the very best basketball movies all time great ☝️

[@MarkSmith-hf5nh]

When I saw this scene, I could swear I'd been down these roads..I have never ever seen and heard a better opening to a movie...a lonely horn drifting back through time

[@Jo-oc8sc]

I can smell those burning leaves. So many images in that opening scene that happened during my childhood, that you never at the time thought were worth taking a photo of.

[@katiewilliams5643]

I've broken the record watching this movie it's been one of my favorites since I was 8 years old I'm almost 38 and college men's basketball is my obsession I'm a season men's basketball ticket holder for Notre dame I'm on my 16th season with the Irish I've seen the best of times and worst of times I've decided to put my adventures to Butler University for a while I think it's because I really wanna see a deep run in the NCAA tournament for the men's team for Notre Dame because I'd like to see a trophy I. The case it would just be sweet we've got to stay healthy every week we've gotta keep dreaming the dream.

[@randyparrish4620]

I grew up ten miles from where this was filmed. After being gone for over 40 years, this still makes me homesick.

[@thetruthsayer7534]

This scene reminds me so much of Coach Switzer driving from Oklahoma to Dallas when Jerry hired him for the Head Coaching job of the Dallas Cowboys in the 90s, the best era ever.

[@newjeffersonian6456]

I bet he wasn't driving a '51 Chevy.

[@alexmcgann7766]

I saw the movie as a 6th grader in Chattanooga, TN with my Hoosier (Marion, Muncie) parents. They got emotional in the 1st 45 seconds. Later after taking my own children on visits to Hoosierland I immediately understood. Quite possibly one of the finest time / place intro's in cinema history and the music is so Indiana. Pure genius. Cannot express enough how much I love these 4 minutes.