Next Goal Wins sees Taika Waititi miss a sitter

NEXT GOAL WINS kicks off with high hopes but struggles to string any narrative passes together despite a game cast and a heartwarming story to tell. Taika Waititi’s latest attempt to blend comedy with heartfelt drama tells the true story of the American Samoa soccer team, notorious for their record-breaking 31-0 loss, and their journey towards redemption under the guidance of disgraced coach Thomas Rongen, played by Michael Fassbender.

Fassbender, typically known for his intense dramatic roles, is cast against type here, and struggles to inject the necessary levity into his character, although he’s not helped by the script. Elisabeth Moss, as his estranged wife, shares this misfortune, both seeming adrift in a sea of mismatched tones. The true standout is Kaimana, playing Jaiyah Saelua, a non-binary fa’afafine whose presence brings a refreshing layer of inclusivity and authenticity to the film and Oscar Kightley, who seems much more at home with the quasi-comic tone than either Fassbender or Moss.

Waititi’s trademark offbeat humour makes frequent appearances, delivering moments of genuine warmth and laughter and, of course, Rachel House continues her run as an inveterate scene-stealer, her energy lighting up every scene she inhabits. However, these bright spots are often overshadowed by inconsistent pacing and a narrative that vacillates between slapstick and melodrama, dulling the emotional impact.

The film’s cinematography, by Lachlan Milne, misses an opportunity to fully showcase the stunning landscapes, resulting in a visually flat experience while the gameplay sequences, crucial for any sports film, lack the excitement and engagement needed to captivate the audience. It’s a surprising misstep for Waititi, whose previous works have so effectively balanced humour and heart, but NEXT GOAL WINS leaves you yearning for deeper character exploration and a more cohesive narrative. It almost feels like Waititi is constrained by the need to tell a true story rather than follow his own flights of fancy. Compared to, say, HUNT FOR THE WILDERPEOPLE, his signature style seems forced rather than flowing naturally and the original documentary remains the more compelling take on this underdog story, capturing the spirit and resilience of the team with greater clarity.

NEXT GOAL WINS is a well-intentioned film that fumbles in its execution. It highlights important themes of inclusion and perseverance but ultimately falls short of its potential. Fans of Waititi might find enough to enjoy, but it’s a reminder that even the best directors can occasionally miss the mark.