Next Goal Wins

Next Goal Wins marks Taika Waititi's latest foray into cinematic storytelling, bringing his distinctive blend of humor and heart to the world of international soccer. Known for his eclectic style, director, writer and producer Taika Waititi once again demonstrates his ability to weave a captivating narrative, even within the familiar framework of a sports comedy.

At the heart of the film is the American Samoa soccer team, a group saddled with the unenviable title of worst team in history following a humiliating 0-31 defeat by Australia ten years earlier. Michael Fassbender plays Thomas Rongen, a Dutch coach on a mission to transform this team into a force to be reckoned with. The journey is fraught with pitfalls, culture shocks and one overriding goal: to achieve a single goal in professional competition - a seemingly insurmountable feat for a team struggling with a legacy of failure.

True to form, Taika Waititi imbues the story with his trademark humor. The film doesn't shy away from embracing the clichés and tropes of sports movies, but it manages to hold the audience's attention with its witty, sarcastic and sometimes physical sense of humor. The predictable nature of the sports triumph formula is counterbalanced by the eccentric characters, each bringing a unique flavor to the ensemble.

Jaiyah Saelua, played by Kaimana, is a fa'afafine character who not only adds a distinctive, historical dimension to the story, but also becomes pivotal to the film's narrative. The supporting cast, including Oscar Kightley who delivers an outstanding performance as Tavita, further enhance the film's entertainment value. Oscar Kightley, in particular, deserves praise as the film's best actor, bringing nuance and humor to his role.

Although the film is on familiar ground in terms of a sports movie template, it manages to carve out a place of its own thanks to Taika Waititi 's fine direction and Fassbender's charismatic performance. Michael Giacchino's upbeat score completes the film's tone, adding an extra layer of enjoyment.

There are, however, some reservations about Taika Waititi's previous work, suggesting wider problems in the current Hollywood landscape. However, Next Goal Wins transcends these concerns, offering a cinematic experience that may not break box-office records or win major awards, but offers a feel-good journey resonating with themes of growth, determination and the sheer joy of play.

In the grand scheme of Taika Waititi i's filmography, Next Goal Wins may not be groundbreaking, but it succeeds in meeting the challenges of a humorous and heartwarming sports story. As the film unfolds, it becomes clear that Taika Waititi is at his best when he gets back to basics, infusing his narrative with a winning formula that resonates with audiences, despite the critical scrutiny it may elicit. In conclusion, Next Goal Wins is a testament to Taika Waititi's effective direction, proving that even within the confines of a familiar genre, he can create an engaging and enjoyable cinematic experience.

Next Goal Wins
Directed by Taika Waititi
Written by Taika Waititi, Iain Morris
Based on Next Goal Wins by Mike Brett, Steve Jamison
Produced by Jonathan Cavendish, Garrett Basch, Taika Waititi, Mike Brett, Steve Jamison
Starring Michael Fassbender, Oscar Kightley, Kaimana, David Fane, Rachel House, Beulah Koale, Taika Waititi, Will Arnett, Elisabeth Moss
Cinematography : Lachlan Milne
Edited by Nicholas Monsour
Music by Michael Giacchino
Production companies: Imaginarium Productions, TSG Entertainment, Defender Films, Garrett Basch Production
Distributed by Searchlight Pictures
Release dates : September 10, 2023 (TIFF), November 17, 2023 (United States), December 20, 2023 (France)
Running time : 103 minutes

Seen December 18, 2023 at Gaumont Disney Village, Room 14 seat A21

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