Review - Next Goal Wins
Directed by: Taika Waititi
Written by: Taiki Waititi, Iain Morris
Starring: Michael Fassbender, Oscar Knightley, Kaimana, David Fane
Running Time: 103 minutes
Rating: 3/5
Taika Waititi takes audiences on a nostalgic trip with Next Goal Wins, a film that pays homage to the sports movies of the ‘80s and ‘90s, capturing both their charm and shortcomings. While Waititi's signature humor is present, the movie is not without its unforced errors. Overall, Waititi gets a yellow card for this one.
The film unfolds as a rare fictional remake of a documentary chronicling the American Samoan soccer team's journey to redemption after enduring the most humiliating loss in the history of the sport. The premise promises a compelling underdog story, and in many ways, Next Goal Wins delivers. Waititi's script carries the unmistakable comedic beats reminiscent of his previous works, think Flight of the Conchords or Thor Ragnarok. These familiar elements succeed in eliciting laughter and contribute to the film's overall entertainment value. The emotional undertones, necessary for any sports narrative, are also present, effectively rallying the audience to cheer for the "home team."
Michael Fassbender's portrayal of the coach is a standout performance, showcasing his versatility as he convincingly navigates between detachment and a compelling turnaround. However, it's the ensemble cast portraying the American Samoan team that steals the spotlight. Oscar Kightley, as the Football Federation American Samoa (FFAS) president, delivers a memorable performance, while Uli Latukefu and David Fane contribute greatly to the team's on-screen chemistry.
But it’s well worth mentioning the most notable addition to the cast: Kaimana, making an impressive debut in her role as Jaiyah Saelua, a fa'afafine who becomes a guide and confidante for Fassbender's character. Her performance elevates the material far beyond what’s being offered on the page, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative.
While Next Goal Wins manages to be funny and emotionally engaging, it falls short of making a significant contribution to the pantheon of sports movies. The film, although entertaining, lacks the innovation needed to distinguish itself in a genre filled with memorable classics.
For the American Samoan team in the story who were hoping to see their heroics on the big screen, it's not exactly the cinematic comeback they had hoped for.
