Title: Taika Waititi’s “Next Goal Wins” Struggles to Balance Jokes with Emotional Depth
Subtitle: A review of the ambitious sports drama premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival
Toronto, Canada – In a daring adaptation of the American Samoa soccer team’s journey to redemption, director Taika Waititi’s latest film, “Next Goal Wins,” premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival’s Special Presentations. While the movie aims to mock sports drama tropes and celebrate the importance of representation, it ultimately falls short of its lofty goals.
Waititi, known for his unique style of humor and wit, took the stage before the premiere and inadvertently punched the microphone in a spirited display against imperialism. Though the crowd laughed it off, his subsequent attempt to discuss the significance of representation failed to resonate. Nevertheless, the highlight of the evening came when an elder was invited on stage to bless the film and express her genuine excitement for Waititi’s achievements.
“Next Goal Wins” follows the journey of a washed-up Dutch coach, played by Michael Fassbender, tasked with transforming the American Samoa soccer team from perennial losers to victors. Written by Waititi and Iain Morris (“The InBetweeners”), the film attempts to subvert traditional sports drama tropes while relying on them for emotional impact. This conflicting approach results in a film that fails to fully earn its dramatic conclusions.
Fassbender’s character, Thomas Rongen, is reassigned to American Samoa due to his anger issues and controversial reputation. As he struggles to adjust to the island’s way of life, team captain Tavita (Oscar Kightley) endeavors to help him find his place. While Thomas slowly grows to appreciate the islanders’ attitude towards soccer and life, his character development feels stilted and lacks sincerity, making it difficult for the audience to fully invest.
One of the film’s major shortcomings lies in Waititi’s heavy reliance on comedy, which comes at the expense of developing the characters. Their growth feels uneven and rushed, resulting in a choppy narrative rhythm. Particularly disappointing is the portrayal of Jaiyah, the first trans woman to compete in a FIFA World Cup qualifier, whose storyline is treated as an afterthought.
The practice sequences, attempts at comic relief, and inspirational speeches in “Next Goal Wins” come across as perfunctory and forced. Even when the film aims to showcase the personality and traditions of American Samoans, it does so through the lens of mocking outsiders, undermining their significance.
Despite its flaws, “Next Goal Wins” retains the audience’s attention through its third act, where the team faces off against their rivals, the Independent State of Samoa. However, by this point, viewers’ patience has been tested, yearning for a more genuine and emotionally resonant narrative.
While Waititi’s film captures the essence of an underdog sports team worth rooting for, it ultimately falls short in delivering a cohesive and impactful story. In the pursuit of humor, the film sacrifices the sincerity and emotional depth needed to fully engage the audience. If only Waititi had taken a greater risk and left it all on the field, “Next Goal Wins” could have lived up to its potential.
“Next Goal Wins” is set to release on Friday, November 17th, with a runtime of 1 hour and 43 minutes. The film stars Michael Fassbender, Elisabeth Moss, Oscar Kightley, Kaimana, David Fane, Rachel House, Beulah Koale, and Will Arnett. Directed by Taika Waititi, it is co-written by Waititi and Iain Morris. The film is rated PG-13.