← Back to results
Goal!
2005 118 min Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States of America PG-13 12+
★6.5
Drama
Director: Danny Cannon
Trailers
Description
Like millions of kids around the world, Santiago harbors the dream of being a professional footballer... However, living in the Barrios section of Los Angeles, he thinks it is only that—a dream. Until one day an extraordinary turn of events has him trying out for Premiership club Newcastle United.
Budget:
$10M
US Gross:
$4.28M
Worldwide:
$27.61M
Starring
Kuno Becker
Actor
Alessandro Nivola
Actor
Anna Friel
Actor
Awards
1 win & 6 nominations total
Key opinion
Goal! is widely regarded as a quintessential sports "rags-to-riches" underdog story that succeeds through its authentic portrayal of football culture and high-energy atmosphere. While many viewers praise its inspiring message and technical integration of real football legends, others criticize the narrative as being overly formulaic, naive, and plagued by sports-logic inaccuracies.
| Originality | The inclusion of actual football legends like Zidane and Beckham provides a high level of visual authenticity and cultural immersion for fans. | |
| Cinematography | The cinematography effectively captures the energy of the English Premier League, utilizing impressive stadium shots and gritty urban landscapes. | |
| Acting | Kuno Becker delivers a convincing portrayal of Santiago Muñez, displaying necessary physical agility and emotional grit for the role. | |
| Screenplay | The narrative follows a classic "fairytale" underdog structure that inspires some viewers while striking others as predictable, naive, or unrealistic. | |
| Adaptation | Serious football fans are divided on the film's value: some appreciate the immersive match atmosphere, while others are distracted by technical inaccuracies and fantasy-driven plot points. |