Darts fans worldwide will be searching for ways to occupy their time while much of the planet is on lockdown, many people are either not working or working from home and, of course, don’t have as much darts to watch. So I compiled a list of darts documentaries that are well worth a watch if you are cosying up on the sofa.
This fantastic documentary by Julian Schwanitz features a trip to Jocky Wilson’s home town of Kirkcaldy before the Scottish star’s death, aiming to uncover what happened to Jocky, what the area he grow up in and later moved back to is like. It wonderfully captures the life of Jocky and the heart and soul of the town in Fife he called home and is brilliant if you are looking to learn a little bit about one of the sport’s greatest characters. If this isn’t enough Jocky content for you, you could also watch Jocky Wilson Said, a documentary which was on the BBC last year, which features archive footage from Wilson’s career.
Another brilliant watch if you fancy a look back into bygone days. It features plenty of interviews with the greats and follows the evolution of the game. Perfect opportunity to curl up on the sofa and dip into an Easter egg!
Bullseyes and Beer: When Darts Hit Britain
A documentary first aired on the BBC a few years ago, it takes a look at the rich social and cultural history of darts, spanning from its early 20th century roots, looking at greats like Alan Evans and the emergence of the sport on TV. It also features some great footage of Eric Bristow and an interview with Martin Amis about his book, ‘London Fields’, which features a darts player. Another well worth a watch.
Blood on the Carpet is a well-known documentary within the darts world which chronicles the split and animosity between the breakaway players who formed the WDC (later PDC) and the BDO. Both Olly Croft and his wife Lorna feature, as well as many of the players and those involved in the creation of the new organisation, like Tommy Cox. A fascinating viewing.
This 30 minute documentary follows Eric Bristow’s life in the late 1970s, just as darts was reaching its pomp. Just as candid as ever, the late great takes a trip to an exhibition organised by his manager Dick Allix and practices with in his home. Plenty of enlightening footage.
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