Next Goal Wins

About Next Goal Wins

"Next Goal Wins" is an inspiring and uplifting comedy-drama film released in 2023. As the 2014 World Cup qualifiers draw closer, the archetypical underdog American Samoa turns to the football coach Thomas Rongen in hopes of transformation into winners. Rongen, a down-on-his-luck coach, faces the arduous task of shaping an eclectic team into a competent force to compete on the world stage. Throughout the course of the movie, the team faces several ups and downs, combating foot-pedal adversity and challenging established norms, which beautifully reflects human strength and resilience.

Making / Production

The film is directed by Taika Waititi and shot extensively in the lowly but lusciously beautiful locales of American Samoa. The production team had to face various challenges to replicate the somber reality of the soccer team's world and their struggle to establish their presence in the rigorous world of football. The film strikingly manages to dodge sports movie cliches while vividly portraying the spirit of underdogs.

Actors

• Michael Fassbender as Thomas Rongen - Fassbender impressively enacts the role of the dejected but resilient coach, bringing a touch of authenticity and depth.
• Elisabeth Moss as Mary Rongen - Moss beautifully portrays the supportive wife of Thomas, complementing Fassbender's performance perfectly.
• David Fane as John Kneubuhl - Fane gives a compelling performance as the warm-hearted team manager of American Samoa.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• "Next Goal Wins" is based on a true story of the American Samoa soccer team.
• Director Taika Waititi is known for his unique storytelling and humor, which is evident in the film.
• The movie title is derived from a popular phrase used in pickup soccer games, where the team that scores the next goal wins, irrespective of the current score.

Music, Soundtrack

• The movie features a captivating original score by Alex Belcher, which uplifts the storyline.
• The soundtrack features several indigenous songs from American Samoa, providing an authentic feel to the movie.
• Inspiring themes run through the soundtrack, echoing the struggle and triumph of the team.

Quotes

• "We're not losing, we're learning." - Thomas Rongen
• "Everyone has their dragons to slay." - Mary Rongen
• "We're not a team because we work together. We're a team because we respect, trust, and care for each other." - John Kneubuhl

Note: The awards section cannot be generated as award information for the movie "Next Goal Wins" (2023) is not available at the time of request.