Episode notes
Taika Waititi returns to the director’s chair with 'Next Goal Wins'. Based on real events and adapted from the 2014 documentary of the same name, the story follows the American Samoa national football team on the back of the world breaking 31-0 loss in a World Cup qualifier. Brought in is Thomas Rongen, played brilliantly by Michael Fassbender, who aims to turn the tide – or at least, get the team to score 1 goal.
The film celebrates the Polynesian culture whilst also balancing itself well with quick gags around the culture and lifestyle. Ultimately though, it is the people and characters within the island that make this an extremely enjoyable and fun watch.
Full thoughts in this episode.