← Back to results
Next Goal Wins
2023 104 min New Zealand, United Kingdom, United States of America PG-13 6+
★6.0
Comedy, Drama
Director: Taika Waititi
Trailers
EN
EN
Teaser
Teaser
Teaser
Teaser
Teaser
Teaser
Teaser
Teaser
Description
Dutch coach Thomas Rongen attempts the nearly impossible task of turning the American Samoa soccer team from perennial losers into winners.
Budget:
$14M
US Gross:
$6.71M
Worldwide:
$18.06M
Starring
Michael Fassbender
Actor
Oscar Kightley
Actor
Kaimana
Actor
Awards
1 nomination total
Key opinion
Next Goal Wins is an uplifting, lighthearted sports dramedy that benefits from a warm Polynesian setting and a dedicated performance by Michael Fassbender. However, the film is hampered by uneven humor, a thin screenplay that leaves supporting characters underdeveloped, and a tonal inconsistency that leads to a mixed critical reception.
| Emotion | The film succeeds as a feel-good, heart-warming experience that effectively delivers an uplifting message about community and resilience. | |
| Acting | Michael Fassbender anchors the film with a compelling performance, bringing surprising comic timing and depth to a role that differs significantly from his usual repertoire. | |
| Acting | The supporting cast, particularly Kaimana as the trans player Jaiyah, provides authentic and memorable highlights amidst a sea of otherwise thin, cardboard characterizations. | |
| Humor | Waititi's signature humor proves polarizing; some find his stylistic flourishes and recurring gags cringey or ineffective, while others appreciate the comedic charm. | |
| Theme | The screenplay is criticized for being superficial, as it fails to deeply explore the cultural nuances of American Samoa or the internal lives of its supporting ensemble. | |
| Pacing | The film suffers from uneven narrative flow, with many critics pointing to a weak and rambling first act that only finds its footing in the final segment. |