Stumbled across an old article about historical sports that have faded into obscurity, and it got me wondering which one would make for an epic film? Imagine the drama of ancient Mesoamerican ulama, where players used their hips to keep a heavy rubber ball in play, often for ritual or political stakes. Or how about Viking knattleikr, a brutal, chaotic mix of hockey and combat that could add some gritty realism to a historical action flick?
As a mining engineer, I’m drawn to the raw, physical challenges these sports demanded, but there’s also so much cultural depth to explore. Which forgotten sport do you think has the most cinematic potential? Could be the visuals, the stakes, or just the sheer novelty of it. Curious to hear your picks!