Jerry Maguire (1996)

The all-star cast is led by Tom Cruise (as Jerry) but he’s overshadowed by Cuba Gooding Jr as the enigmatic NFL star Rod Tidwell. Sports agent Jerry is fired, has a breakdown and leaves his company after releasing a rant-themed manifesto. He has one friend – secretary Dorothy Boyd (Renee Zellweger) – and one client – Rod – who believe in his dream. And so, the catchphrase “Show me the money” is born.

This is the perfect mix of comedy, drama, sports, action and “awww” moments, thanks mostly to pint-sized, big-glasses-wearing, lisping Jonathan Lipnicki (as Dorothy’s son Ray) being too darn cute. You’ll also get a look at what life is like for pro sportsmen, who gamble on big moves that might not seem right but end up catapulting them from average to the big time, and the big bucks.

NYtimes.com film critic Janet Maslin reviews, “The basic appeal of Jerry Maguire, pure midlife crisis played with a younger cast, is in watching Jerry become liberated from the rat race and discover a richer new life in the real world.” What are you waiting for? Show yourself the money!