Next Goal Wins, a 2023 sports comedy-drama directed by Taika Waititi, is a must-see. He and Iain Morris penned this laugh-out-loud, heart-warming film, which follows the story featured in a 2014 documentary by Mike Brett and Steve Jamison. The plot? A coach named Thomas Rongen, who has Dutch-American roots, aims to lift American Samoa’s national football team from the shadows and onto the World Cup stage in 2014. With actors like Michael Fassbender and Oscar Kightley leading the way, the movie first opened at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) on September 10, 2023. Then, thanks to Searchlight Pictures, it hit theaters in the U.S. on November 17, 2023.
Plot Overview
Next Goal Wins is a movie about the American Samoa national football team, known as one of the less successful teams around the world. The story follows Coach Thomas Rongen, played by skilled actor Michael Fassbender. He faces the tough task of leading this not-so-lucky team towards the honored 2014 FIFA World Cup. This film combines fun, serious scenes, and the unbeatable enthusiasm of soccer.
Top Star Cast
- Michael Fassbender As Thomas Rongen
- Kaimana As Jaiyah
- Oscar Kightley As Tavita
- David Fane As Ace
- Beulah Koale As Daru
- Rachel House As Ruth
- Will Arnett As Alex Magnussen
- Elisabeth Moss As Gail
- Ioane Goodhue As Smiley
Directorial Vision
Taika Waititi is recognized for his unique approach and consistent results in merging comedy and warm narratives. Together with Iain Morris, they penned the script. This teamwork between Waititi and Morris offers a balance of clever humor and touching depth. It guarantees that Next Goal Wins captures the heart of the initial documentary, yet adding its individual appeal to the audience.
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Theatrical Release
Next Goal Wins first premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) on September 10, 2023. Buzz around the film began to grow. The film was later released in the United States on November 17, 2023 by Searchlight Pictures. Many like the film, complimenting its genuineness, funny moments, and intriguing narrative.
Online Streaming Release on Netflix
The movie will show in theaters, then broaden its reach through Netflix at end of December. The shift to a digital streaming stage could help Next Goal Wins reach viewers worldwide. They can soak in the inspiring saga of the American Samoa football team right from their cozy homes.
Budget and Box Office Performance
Next Goal Wins, a hit sports film, is already receiving a positive response. The movie, with its $14 million budget, has quickly regained 35% of its costs. With a hefty $5 million coming in, it’s gaining a solid footing in the cinema world. As viewers continue to love the gripping narrative, Next Goal Wins stands to succeed even further. It holds a spot as a recommended sports flick in theaters nationwide.