"Taika Waititi's 'Next Goal Wins': A Resonating Soccer Film Review"
"Next Goal Wins" is a formulaic yet strangely effective underdog sports movie based on the true story of a Dutch-American coach sent to train the American Samoa football team after their devastating loss in the World Cup. Directed by Taika Waititi, the film follows the familiar tropes of the genre, occasionally mocking them, but ultimately delivering an uplifting and crowd-pleasing experience. Despite its flaws, including a lackluster performance by Michael Fassbender, the film manages to engage viewers through its portrayal of resilience and redemption. However, it falls short in fully exploring the complexities of its characters and themes, relying on clichés and missed opportunities.
- Next Goal Wins movie review & film summary (2023) Roger Ebert
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