Seven short episodes and they're all great.
While Jose Mourinho might have a dislike for players that exhibit a certain level of flair and individualism, there's no denying that every sports fan absolutely loves a maverick. While the expert professionalism and clean-cut image of, let's say, James Milner is a manager's dream, there's something to be said for those players/athletes that live on the edge and can produce a moment of magic when you least expect it.
In the documentary series The Mavericks, viewers get to step into the shoes of football icons, racing legends and other athletes who flouted the rules throughout their career. While three episodes of the series are devoted solely to football, there's plenty on offer here for all sports fans with boxing, snooker, darts and motorsports all covered.
Like most talking heads documentaries, there are some wonderful anecdotes, interviews and archival footage used throughout.
Ok, so what's on offer in the various episodes/sports?
Football
Where else can we start than the career of George Best? The Manchester United icon put it best by saying: "I spent a lot of money on booze, birds and fast cars. The rest I just squandered."
Diego Maradona's godlike genius and his own personal demons are discussed, as is Charlie 'Champagne' Nicholas' fondness for the high life. There's also a really interesting account on Liverpool's eccentric 'keeper Bruce Grobbelaar, Matt Le Tissier's constant ability to conjure magic from thin air, the highs and lows of Paul Gascoigne's career, Eric Cantona's legacy in English football, and Paul Merson's very public battles with gambling, drugs and alcoholism.
For Brian Clough fans, there's also a very decent segment on his superb managerial skills. To be honest, we're probably after forgetting 10 more maverick footballers that also featured in the series.
Boxing
You could make hundreds of documentaries about the greatest, Muhammad Ali, and never get bored. Aside from Ali's stunning career and gripping life story, the documentary also examines the unifying effect that Barry McGuigan's fights had on the people of Ireland during The Troubles. Elsewhere, Mike Tyson's ferocious talents as a youngster are also portrayed as are the eclectic careers of Tyson Fury, Chris Eubank and much more.
Elsewhere...
For snooker lovers, Alex Higgins is the main draw as the filmmakers discuss the wonderful talents of 'The Hurricane.' In terms of modern day players, one man continues to fascinate snooker fans and that's Ronnie O'Sullivan. There's also an excellent segment on Jimmy White and the snooker episode also features some great contributions from Steve Davis and Dennis Taylor.
Last but not least, motorsport fans will be captivated by the tales of Joey Dunlop, Barry Sheene, James Hunt and more. To conclude things, darts icons like Alan Evans and Eric Bristow are also given their moment in the spotlight.
The documentary recently landed on Netflix and it has impressed plenty of sports fans. Check it out if you can.
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