The Best Ice Skating Movies, Ranked

Harper Brooks
Updated February 1, 2025 99.1K views 23 items

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Skating across the glossy surface of cinema, the niche genre of ice skating movies glides into the hearts of audiences worldwide. From the tension of competition to the personal dramas unfolding off the rink, we've curated the best films to depict the mesmerizing - but often controversial - sport.

Among the standouts is I, Tonya, which tells the tale of American Olympic figure skater Tonya Harding with a mix of dark humor and raw emotion, offering a glimpse into the contentious athlete's life and the infamous incident that rocked the sports world. On a lighter note, Blades of Glory pairs Will Ferrell and Jon Heder as an unlikely duo forging an even more unlikely path to glory on the ice, blending comedy with surprisingly impressive skating sequences.

These movies, and many others on this crowd-ranked list, demonstrate the artistry and intensity of figure skaters, making them stand out in the genre and resonate with audiences who appreciate the mix of athleticism and storytelling on the frosty expanse of the ice rink. Which ones are your favorites? Vote them up!

Most divisive: On Thin Ice : The Tai Babilonia Story
Over 1.1K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Movies About Figure Skating
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  • The Cutting Edge
    1
    D.B. Sweeney, Moira Kelly, Roy Dotrice
    379 votes

    The Cutting Edge is a quintessential figure skating movie that masterfully intertwines themes of romance, determination, and teamwork. The film skillfully employs figure skating as the central theme, enabling both the characters and the audience to experience the physical and mental challenges involved in the sport. The intricate plot revolves around the unlikely partnership between a no-nonsense hockey player transitioning into figure skating and a feisty but talented figure skater. Their mutual passion for skating serves as a catalyst for personal growth, strengthening their bond and allowing the film to soar on the edges of its titular blades.

    • Released: 1992
    • Directed by: Paul Michael Glaser
  • I, Tonya
    2
    Margot Robbie, Sebastian Stan, Allison Janney
    167 votes

    I, Tonya offers a raw and riveting portrayal of the infamously scandalous life of Tonya Harding, providing a fresh perspective on the world of competitive figure skating. The film dives deep into the struggles and complexities of an immensely talented skater who made history but also shattered the conventional image and expectations of the figure skating world. Through dynamic performances and visceral storytelling, I, Tonya uses figure skating to explore themes of ambition, resilience, and the dark side of chasing fame. By humanizing its controversial subject, the film transcends the ice rink and leaves an indelible mark on viewers.

    • Released: 2017
    • Directed by: Craig Gillespie
  • Ice Princess
    3
    Joan Cusack, Kim Cattrall, Michelle Trachtenberg
    316 votes

    Ice Princess showcases the power of pursuing one's dreams while embracing the elegance, precision, and artistry of figure skating. The central theme revolves around the protagonist's metamorphosis from a smart but timid physics whiz to a fierce and determined figure skater. The film artfully explores character development through the lens of an underdog, using figure skating as a vehicle to demonstrate the importance of self-belief and determination in overcoming obstacles. In doing so, Ice Princess offers a compelling and uplifting take on the world of figure skating that leaves viewers both inspired and awe-struck.

    • Released: 2005
    • Directed by: Tim Fywell
  • Ice Castles
    4
    Lynn-Holly Johnson, Robby Benson, Colleen Dewhurst
    213 votes

    Ice Castles is a poignant and heartwarming tale that explores the beauty of figure skating and the power of love in overcoming adversity. The film's plot follows a young and talented skater who suffers a tragic accident, resulting in her losing her sight and having to rediscover her passion for the sport through perseverance and the unwavering support of her loved ones. Ice Castles stands out due to its depiction of the immense sacrifices required to succeed in both life and figure skating. The film is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and serves as a reminder of the transcendent nature of figure skating as an art form.

    • Released: 1979
    • Directed by: Donald Wrye
  • Blades of Glory
    5
    Will Ferrell, Jon Heder, Will Arnett
    182 votes

    Blades of Glory is a wildly inventive and hilarious comedy that uses the world of figure skating as an unconventional backdrop to explore themes of rivalry, redemption, and partnership. The film centers around two disgraced figure skaters who form an unlikely duo in an attempt to reclaim their former glory. Through its unique premise and outrageous humor, Blades of Glory highlights the sport's inherent drama, athleticism, and spectacle while affectionately poking fun at its clichés. By blending figure skating with relentless wit, this film redefines the genre and delivers a truly uproarious cinematic experience.

    • Released: 2007
    • Directed by: Will Speck, Josh Gordon
  • Go Figure
    6
    Jordan Danger, Whitney Sloan, Cristine Rose
    159 votes

    Go Figure is a spirited and lighthearted film that delves into the world of competitive figure skating while illustrating the value of self-discovery and embracing one's true passion. The plot follows an aspiring hockey player who discovers her innate talent for figure skating and navigates the challenges of balancing both sports. The film develops its themes and characters around the juxtaposition of the two ice sports, demonstrating the versatility and depth of ice-skating as a narrative element. Go Figure is an engaging, entertaining, and insightful exploration of personal growth and the pursuit of dreams on and off the ice.

    • Released: 2005
    • Directed by: Francine McDougall