Is Next Goal Wins a True Story?
Discover the incredible true story behind Taika Waititi's new film, Next Goal Wins, as it brings to life the inspiring journey of a soccer team's quest for redemption Get ready to be captivated by this heartfelt tale of determination and triumph
Are you wondering if Director Taika Waititi's latest film, the lighthearted sports movie Next Goal Wins, is based on a true story? While this question might be on your mind, Taika Waititi has also been making headlines recently for his upcoming Star Wars project and his clear statement that he will not be part of Thor 5.
But now, his most recent film Next Goal Wins is currently showing in theaters across the United States, while it won't be released in the United Kingdom until December 29, 2023. As North American viewers indulge in this exhilarating sports drama, many are curious to know if Next Goal Wins, in fact, draws inspiration from a real-life narrative. Here's what we have gathered.
Is Next Goal Wins based on a true story?
Yes, Next Goal Wins is based on a true story.
The film primarily follows the same pattern as the 2014 British documentary of the same name, directed by Mike Brett and Steve Jamison.
In the documentary, Dutch coach Thomas Rongen takes on the formidable challenge of transforming the consistently unsuccessful American Samoa soccer team into champions. This theme is further explored in Waititi's fictional adaptation, which follows the journey of the American Samoa soccer team. Rongen serves as the central character in the 2023 film.
Next Goal Wins, in contrast to the documentary, has a light-hearted tone, as Waititi deliberately explained in an interview. According to Waititi, "There needs to be respect for good reason. But I believe that Polynesian and Pasifika people are very self-deprecating. We enjoy laughing at ourselves. If this film were made by a Westerner or had a predominantly white cast, it would be excessively respectful and filled with insincere sentimentality. This is the unfortunate reason why Native Americans have been inaccurately depicted in films for such a long time."
The portrayal of certain cultures in films is often inaccurate, depicting them as stoic, mysterious, and quiet individuals, imparting wise advice from their ancestors. However, this representation is not an authentic reflection of their true nature. It seems monotonous if that is how they truly live. Therefore, I strongly believe that films depicting cultures should be created by individuals who are part of that culture or have firsthand experience living within it.
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Editor's P/S
Next Goal Wins is a heartwarming and inspiring true story that follows the journey of the American Samoa soccer team. The film is based on the 2014 British documentary of the same name, which tells the story of Dutch coach Thomas Rongen's attempt to transform the consistently unsuccessful American Samoa soccer team into champions.
The film is full of humor and heart, and it is a testament to the human spirit. It shows that anything is possible if you set your mind to it, and that even the most unlikely of teams can achieve great things.
I highly recommend Next Goal Wins to anyone who loves a good underdog story. It is a film that will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired.
