🎯 Quick Overview
Trailer
- Director: Michael Ritchie
- Genre: Comedy, Sport
- Release year: 1986
- Runtime (length): 1h 46min
- IMDb rating: 6.1/10 (15K votes)
- Rotten Tomatoes: N/A
😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained
A blonde track coach takes a football team from zero to hero, proving that all you need to win is a good perm and some inspirational yelling.
🍿 Wildcats: Detailed Plot Synopsis
Molly’s Dream
Molly McGrath, a high school track coach with an extensive knowledge of football, aspires to coach the sport. Facing skepticism from her colleagues and ex-husband, she applies for the vacant football coach position at her school. This sets the stage for her challenging journey in a male-dominated field.

Taking on Central High
Molly accepts a varsity coaching job at Central High, a rundown inner-city school. She immediately faces resistance from her players, who are initially disrespectful and uncooperative. This section focuses on Molly’s struggle to gain their trust and respect, showcasing her determination to prove herself as a capable coach.

Building a Team
Despite the initial challenges, Molly begins to connect with her players, including talented but troubled athletes like Trumaine and Krushinski. She implements unconventional training methods and addresses their personal issues, gradually transforming them into a cohesive and motivated team. This part highlights the development of the team’s dynamics and their progress under Molly’s guidance.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained
🎬 Cast & Characters
- Molly McGrath (Goldie Hawn): A determined high school track coach who defies expectations by becoming the football coach at a tough inner-city school.
- Trumaine (Wesley Snipes): A talented but rebellious football player who initially clashes with Coach McGrath but eventually becomes a key member of the team.
- Krushinski (Woody Harrelson): A quirky and initially demoted quarterback who finds a new role on the team and becomes a valuable player.
- Frank (James Keach): Molly’s uptight ex-husband who challenges her fitness as a parent due to her coaching career.
- Darwell (Bruce McGill): The sexist and condescending coach of the rival football team who initially undermines Molly’s efforts.
- Edwards (Nipsey Russell): The understanding principal of Central High who gives Molly the opportunity to coach the football team.
💬 Memorable Quotes
- Molly McGrath: “I may not know much, but I know I care about those kids.” – Molly expresses her dedication to her team, showing her commitment despite the challenges.
- Molly McGrath: “You’re gonna be the sorriest bunch of excuses for athletes I have ever seen!” – Molly says this to her team when she first starts coaching them and realizes how undisciplined they are.
- Molly McGrath: “I want to be judged by the same standards as any other coach.” – Molly states her desire to be taken seriously despite her gender, challenging societal norms.
- Marvel: “Coach, let’s eat some pussy!” – Marvel states this in response to Coach McGarth’s suggestion on how they will beat the Cougars.
💰Box Office
- Budget: N/A
- Domestic Gross: $26,285,544
- Worldwide Gross: $26,285,544
💥 Wildcats Reviews
Personal Review
I loved ‘Wildcats’ growing up! It’s pure 80s cheese, but in the best way possible. Goldie Hawn is amazing as Molly, and watching her win over those tough football players was so satisfying. I always felt empowered after watching this. I remember rewinding the tape to see the dance scene at the party over and over.
- Who would enjoy:
- “Fans of Goldie Hawn”
- “Viewers who enjoy underdog sports stories”
- “Those interested in 1980s comedies”
- “People looking for a feel-good movie with themes of perseverance”
- Content warnings ⚠:
- “Suggestive humor”
- “Strong language”
- “Brief nudity”
- “Thematic elements involving prejudice and sexism”
Professional Reviews
- Empire Magazine: “Hawn’s charm elevates this predictable sports comedy. While the underdog story is familiar, the supporting cast, including early roles for Snipes and Harrelson, add a welcome spark.
- Variety: “Wildcats is a decent sports comedy that features the star power of Goldie Hawn and launches the careers of Wesley Snipes and Woody Harrelson.
Audience Reactions
Goldie Hawn’s performance as a determined coach is inspiring and hilarious.: Viewers appreciated Goldie Hawn’s charisma and the film’s uplifting message.
The early roles of Wesley Snipes and Woody Harrelson are a fun glimpse into their future stardom.: People were excited to see young Snipes and Harrelson showing off their talent.
Overall Consensus: A feel-good sports comedy with a strong female lead and memorable early performances from future stars, although somewhat predictable.
Awards
🛠️ Behind the Scenes
- “This marked the film debut for both Woody Harrelson and Wesley Snipes, who later became major stars.”
- “The movie was filmed in Chicago, adding to the authenticity of the inner-city setting.”
- “Goldie Hawn’s character, Molly McGrath, was groundbreaking for portraying a female head coach in a predominantly male sport in the 1980s.”
🖥️ How to Watch Wildcats?
As of today, you can find ‘Wildcats’ available for purchase or rental on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Availability may vary by region and platform, so check your local listings.

🎥 Similar Movies
If you enjoyed Wildcats, you might like these similar films:
- The Bad News Bears (1976): Shares the theme of an unconventional coach leading a misfit team to unexpected success.
- Remember the Titans (2000): Explores themes of overcoming adversity and prejudice through sports, with a focus on teamwork and unity.
- Coach Carter (2005): Focuses on a coach who pushes his players to excel both on and off the court, emphasizing academics and character.
- Major League (1989): Another sports comedy from the late 80’s focused on a misfit team and their unorthodox coach.
🛒 Wildcats Related Products
- Wildcats Movie Poster: A high-quality print of the original ‘Wildcats’ movie poster. Perfect for fans looking to add a touch of 80s nostalgia to their home.
- Chicago Wildcats T-Shirt: Show your support for the Wildcats with this vintage-style t-shirt. Made from comfortable, high-quality material.
- Goldie Hawn Film Collection [DVD]: A collection of Goldie Hawn’s classic movies, including ‘Wildcats’.
- Football Manager 2024: Step into the role of a football manager and lead your team to victory. Inspired by coaching storylines from movies like ‘Wildcats’.
🎧 Soundtrack
Wildcats features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:
You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.
🤨 FAQ
Wildcats was primarily filmed in Chicago, Illinois, with key scenes shot at Lane Technical High School, which served as the location for the final game.
Wildcats features early roles for Wesley Snipes and Woody Harrelson, both of whom went on to have successful acting careers. Goldie Hawn stars as the lead character, Molly McGrath.
While Wildcats is not directly based on a specific true story, it draws inspiration from the challenges women face in male-dominated professions and the general underdog sports narrative.
🔥 Bonus Content
“YOU UGLY!” Cheer Scene | Wildcats (1986)
Remember that super catchy “UGLY!” cheer from Wildcats? This clip brings you right back to that scene and you will be singing it all day after watching it, I promise!
Wildcats Movie – You really want to get rid of me (Edited)
Check out this epic scene where Coach McGrath whips her unruly football team into shape! It’s a great reminder of how tough she can be, and honestly, kind of inspiring.
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