Stars: Michael Fassbender, Kaimana, Rachel House, Oscar Kightley, David Fane, Beulah Koale, Will Arnett, Elisabeth Moss, Uli Latukefu, Chris Alosio, Lehi Makisi Falepapalangi, Rhys Darby | Written by Taika Waititi, Iain Morris | Directed by Taika Waititi
Released in 2014, Next Goal Wins was a phenomenal documentary from directors Mike Brett and Steve Jamison which followed the American Samoa football team as they attempted to persevere following a historic 31-0 loss to Australia. Much in the vein of Grey Gardens, Man On Wire, and Marwencol, the acclaimed documentary has been dramatised into a feature film, this time by Taika Waititi and The Inbetweeners co-creator Iain Morris.
Next Goal Wins focuses on Dutch American coach Thomas Rongen (Michael Fassbender), whose only option to evade being fired is to coach the American Samoa team. As he arrives with a bad attitude and a drinking problem, it soon dawns on Thomas that he may be able...
Released in 2014, Next Goal Wins was a phenomenal documentary from directors Mike Brett and Steve Jamison which followed the American Samoa football team as they attempted to persevere following a historic 31-0 loss to Australia. Much in the vein of Grey Gardens, Man On Wire, and Marwencol, the acclaimed documentary has been dramatised into a feature film, this time by Taika Waititi and The Inbetweeners co-creator Iain Morris.
Next Goal Wins focuses on Dutch American coach Thomas Rongen (Michael Fassbender), whose only option to evade being fired is to coach the American Samoa team. As he arrives with a bad attitude and a drinking problem, it soon dawns on Thomas that he may be able...
- 4/10/2024
- by James Rodrigues
- Nerdly
To celebrate the release of Next Goal Wins, the latest comedy from Taika Waititi, we had the pleasure of sitting down with the cast and filmmaker to find out more about this festive football treat.
Based on the 2014 documentary of the same name, Next Goal Wins follows Dutch American football coach Thomas Rongen (Michael Fassbender) who faces the option of being fired or accepting an almost impossible task: to convert the American Samoa national team, considered one of the weakest football teams in the world, into an elite squad.
Chatting to Fassbender, Kaimana (who played Jaiyah), Waititi and Jaiyah Saelua, the real-life American Samoa player and FIFA ambassador, we chat about the lure of the story, challenges of bringing the beautiful game to life on the big-screen, inspirations and aspirations, showcasing a different side to football and highlighting the tremendous work done to change the nature of it, football knowledge,...
Based on the 2014 documentary of the same name, Next Goal Wins follows Dutch American football coach Thomas Rongen (Michael Fassbender) who faces the option of being fired or accepting an almost impossible task: to convert the American Samoa national team, considered one of the weakest football teams in the world, into an elite squad.
Chatting to Fassbender, Kaimana (who played Jaiyah), Waititi and Jaiyah Saelua, the real-life American Samoa player and FIFA ambassador, we chat about the lure of the story, challenges of bringing the beautiful game to life on the big-screen, inspirations and aspirations, showcasing a different side to football and highlighting the tremendous work done to change the nature of it, football knowledge,...
- 12/25/2023
- by Scott Davis
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Stars: Michael Fassbender, Kaimana, Rachel House, Oscar Kightley, David Fane, Beulah Koale, Will Arnett, Elisabeth Moss, Uli Latukefu, Chris Alosio, Lehi Makisi Falepapalangi, Rhys Darby | Written by Taika Waititi, Iain Morris | Directed by Taika Waititi
Released in 2014, Next Goal Wins was a phenomenal documentary from directors Mike Brett and Steve Jamison which followed the American Samoa football team as they attempted to persevere following a historic 31-0 loss to Australia. Much in the vein of Grey Gardens, Man On Wire, and Marwencol, the acclaimed documentary has been dramatised into a feature film, this time by Taika Waititi and The Inbetweeners co-creator Iain Morris.
Next Goal Wins focuses on Dutch American coach Thomas Rongen (Michael Fassbender), whose only option to evade being fired is to coach the American Samoa team. As he arrives with a bad attitude and a drinking problem, it soon dawns on Thomas that he may be able...
Released in 2014, Next Goal Wins was a phenomenal documentary from directors Mike Brett and Steve Jamison which followed the American Samoa football team as they attempted to persevere following a historic 31-0 loss to Australia. Much in the vein of Grey Gardens, Man On Wire, and Marwencol, the acclaimed documentary has been dramatised into a feature film, this time by Taika Waititi and The Inbetweeners co-creator Iain Morris.
Next Goal Wins focuses on Dutch American coach Thomas Rongen (Michael Fassbender), whose only option to evade being fired is to coach the American Samoa team. As he arrives with a bad attitude and a drinking problem, it soon dawns on Thomas that he may be able...
- 12/19/2023
- by James Rodrigues
- Nerdly
With the Taika Waititi-directed feature-film version of this story coming to cinemas soon, here’s our review of the original 2014 documentary of the same name, Next Goal Wins from directors Mike Brett and Steve Jamison.
In 2001, American Samoa made history by receiving what was then the worst loss in football history during a qualifying match for the 2002 FIFA World Cup. After losing 31-0 to Australia, American Samoa were dubbed the World’s Worst Team and were dogged by defeat ever since. While many would have used such demoralizing news to poke fun at the team, directors Mike Brett and Steve Jamison crafted a documentary to celebrate instead how the team continues to play despite such defeats.
At the time, Football was a relatively new sport to American Samoa which was getting bigger. As such, the team contained no professional footballers and relied on the players to partake for free,...
In 2001, American Samoa made history by receiving what was then the worst loss in football history during a qualifying match for the 2002 FIFA World Cup. After losing 31-0 to Australia, American Samoa were dubbed the World’s Worst Team and were dogged by defeat ever since. While many would have used such demoralizing news to poke fun at the team, directors Mike Brett and Steve Jamison crafted a documentary to celebrate instead how the team continues to play despite such defeats.
At the time, Football was a relatively new sport to American Samoa which was getting bigger. As such, the team contained no professional footballers and relied on the players to partake for free,...
- 12/6/2023
- by James Rodrigues
- Nerdly
Taika Waititi makes charming flicks. His latest is no exception. Next Goal Wins tells the underdog story of the American Samoa’s soccer team – based on the 2014 documentary with the same name. And yes, it has a ton of heart, great characters, and it kinda (sorta) tells the true tale. At least that’s what the opening of the film tells us. Either way, the Michael Fassbender-led feature also stars an impressive cast including Oscar Knightley, Kaimana Jaiyah, Beulah Koale, Will Arnett, and Elisabeth Moss. This flick has a ton of heart.
Recently, I had the honor of speaking to both Taika Waititi, and one of the inspirations behind the new flick, Jaiyah Saelua. She is included in one of the best storylines in the new film revolves around the relationship between Fassbender’s Thomas Rongen and Kaimana Jaiyah’s take on Saelua. So much so that I wondered...
Recently, I had the honor of speaking to both Taika Waititi, and one of the inspirations behind the new flick, Jaiyah Saelua. She is included in one of the best storylines in the new film revolves around the relationship between Fassbender’s Thomas Rongen and Kaimana Jaiyah’s take on Saelua. So much so that I wondered...
- 11/20/2023
- by JimmyO
- JoBlo.com
Taika Waititi has become a divisive director after many felt his follow-up to Thor: Ragnarok, Thor: Love and Thunder indulged too much in his quirky humor and featured half-baked dramatic beats. However, prior to that misfire, the New Zealander had only dabbled in big-budget blockbusters with Thor: Ragnarok and his small appearances as Korg in subsequent Marvel Universe films. He had previously received consistent accolades for his other movies, which are smaller comedy productions that include What We Do in the Shadows, Hunt for the Wilderpeople and JoJo Rabbit. And he continues to receive praise for the upcoming soccer comedy, Next Goal Wins.
Waititi’s success with the Thor movies and his relationship with Disney would give him the chance to helm a standalone Star Wars film. Even with his work in the MCU, it remains to be seen how his style can mesh with a Star Wars movie, and...
Waititi’s success with the Thor movies and his relationship with Disney would give him the chance to helm a standalone Star Wars film. Even with his work in the MCU, it remains to be seen how his style can mesh with a Star Wars movie, and...
- 11/17/2023
- by EJ Tangonan
- JoBlo.com
Michael Fassbender is a two-time Academy Award nominee who trained at the Drama Centre London before touring with the Oxford Stage Company; he’s performed Chekov and Shakespeare and worked a veritable who’s who of greatest living directors. Rookie actor Kaimana had never even considered trying to be an actor, noting she avoided school plays “like the plague.” Yet the two form a winning pair in “Next Goal Wins,” the funny, touching, uplifting new film from “Jojo Rabbit” filmmaker Taika Waititi, hitting theaters Nov. 17.
Based on the 2014 documentary of the same name, “Next Goal Wins” finds Fassbender playing Thomas Rongen, a coach whose anger management and alcohol issues finds him shipped off to American Samoa to lead the national football team to qualify for the FIFA World Cup. He is set up to fail — the team is widely regarded as a punchline in the sport. But, fortunately, the team...
Based on the 2014 documentary of the same name, “Next Goal Wins” finds Fassbender playing Thomas Rongen, a coach whose anger management and alcohol issues finds him shipped off to American Samoa to lead the national football team to qualify for the FIFA World Cup. He is set up to fail — the team is widely regarded as a punchline in the sport. But, fortunately, the team...
- 11/16/2023
- by Jenelle Riley
- Variety Film + TV
One can’t say that writer-director Taika Waititi doesn’t do an efficient job at telling us just what kind of experience Next Goal Wins is going to be right from the outset. After all the studio logos, the very first image we see is of Taika himself, playing an American Samoan priest, explains to the audience the tale of the most embarrassing defeat ever to occur on a soccer pitch: a match from April 11, 2001 when Australia beat American Samoa 31-0.
The footage of that match starts both Waititi’s film and the 2014 documentary of the same name by Mike Brett and Steve Jamison that it’s based on. And it’s a perfect way to kick-start a movie about a bunch of loveable losers struggling for the meager goal of scoring a single point in literally any game. The cherry on top of it all is the darkly hilarious...
The footage of that match starts both Waititi’s film and the 2014 documentary of the same name by Mike Brett and Steve Jamison that it’s based on. And it’s a perfect way to kick-start a movie about a bunch of loveable losers struggling for the meager goal of scoring a single point in literally any game. The cherry on top of it all is the darkly hilarious...
- 11/15/2023
- by Justin Clark
- Slant Magazine
Taika Waititi can’t say much about his forthcoming “Star Wars” film, but he does have a joke that might pique his fans’ sense of humor.
When asked if his addition to the popular franchise would still show fans the same “Star Wars” they know and love, the “Thor: love and thunder” director animatedly told Variety on the red carpet of his “Next Goal Wins” premiere, “It will be … dramatic pause… a Taika Waititi film.”
“It’s gonna piss people off,” he added with a laugh.
In the meantime, the Hollywood multihyphenate is celebrating the release of his latest film, a soccer flick focused on the true story of an American Samoa team that infamously lost a FIFA match 31-0. Waititi came to the movie after wrapping up his work on the 2022 “Thor” film and “JoJo Rabbit,” and said he wanted to do something that focused on his heritage and culture.
When asked if his addition to the popular franchise would still show fans the same “Star Wars” they know and love, the “Thor: love and thunder” director animatedly told Variety on the red carpet of his “Next Goal Wins” premiere, “It will be … dramatic pause… a Taika Waititi film.”
“It’s gonna piss people off,” he added with a laugh.
In the meantime, the Hollywood multihyphenate is celebrating the release of his latest film, a soccer flick focused on the true story of an American Samoa team that infamously lost a FIFA match 31-0. Waititi came to the movie after wrapping up his work on the 2022 “Thor” film and “JoJo Rabbit,” and said he wanted to do something that focused on his heritage and culture.
- 11/15/2023
- by BreAnna Bell
- Variety Film + TV
Taika Waititi is weighing in on superhero fatigue at the box office, admitting that even he himself needs a break from that big-budget world.
Following Marvel’s recent string of misses with their last few films, there have been questions about if audiences have grown tired of superhero content; when asked about the trend at the Los Angeles premiere of his new movie Next Goal Wins on Tuesday, Waititi told The Hollywood Reporter, “I don’t know. I’m a bit fatigued by working on those big films, studio films, which is why I’ve come back to do smaller films like this; my next film will be a smaller one.”
The Thor director noted, however, that “there’s always a place for them and they’re always inspirational. As a little kid, those are the things I loved, going to see these big movies set in outer space to...
Following Marvel’s recent string of misses with their last few films, there have been questions about if audiences have grown tired of superhero content; when asked about the trend at the Los Angeles premiere of his new movie Next Goal Wins on Tuesday, Waititi told The Hollywood Reporter, “I don’t know. I’m a bit fatigued by working on those big films, studio films, which is why I’ve come back to do smaller films like this; my next film will be a smaller one.”
The Thor director noted, however, that “there’s always a place for them and they’re always inspirational. As a little kid, those are the things I loved, going to see these big movies set in outer space to...
- 11/15/2023
- by Kirsten Chuba
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Variety may receive an affiliate commission.
Ahead of the theatrical debut of Taika Waititi “Next Goal Wins” this weekend, Searchlight Pictures and the lifestyle brand Accompany have released a limited-edition, artisan capsule collection for soccer players, consisting of a handmade soccer ball and athletic socks.
Waititi stars in a campaign for the new collection, called the Fa’atasi Capsule, in which he sits in an all-white ensemble on a crisp soccer field. “As a filmmaker, there’s nothing I love more than telling stories that represent different cultures,” he says in the campaign video. “For example, my latest film ‘Next Goal Wins’ takes place in the American Samoa. Where is that, you ask? It’s in the Pacific. Google it.”
“It’s the true story of the International Football team but it’s about way more than just soccer,...
Ahead of the theatrical debut of Taika Waititi “Next Goal Wins” this weekend, Searchlight Pictures and the lifestyle brand Accompany have released a limited-edition, artisan capsule collection for soccer players, consisting of a handmade soccer ball and athletic socks.
Waititi stars in a campaign for the new collection, called the Fa’atasi Capsule, in which he sits in an all-white ensemble on a crisp soccer field. “As a filmmaker, there’s nothing I love more than telling stories that represent different cultures,” he says in the campaign video. “For example, my latest film ‘Next Goal Wins’ takes place in the American Samoa. Where is that, you ask? It’s in the Pacific. Google it.”
“It’s the true story of the International Football team but it’s about way more than just soccer,...
- 11/14/2023
- by Anna Tingley
- Variety Film + TV
Taika Waititi had two goals when approaching Next Goal Wins: one was to make sure people who looked like him found their way onto mainstream screens; two was making sure they were depicted taking the piss out of each other. He joked, after the world premiere, that Pacific Islanders are always shown playing majestic music and looking regal when reality was an infinite wealth of good-natured ribbing. And who better to embody that lack of self-satisfied pretension than arguably the worst soccer team to ever hit an international pitch: the American Samoa national football team, which lost to Australia 31 to nil in 2001.
As the island’s priest (Waititi) explains during his opening narration, the squad might have played even worse in the decade-plus that goes by once the film hits 2014. It’s here that Football Federation American Samoa president Tavita (Oscar Kightley) decides something needs to change. With World Cup...
As the island’s priest (Waititi) explains during his opening narration, the squad might have played even worse in the decade-plus that goes by once the film hits 2014. It’s here that Football Federation American Samoa president Tavita (Oscar Kightley) decides something needs to change. With World Cup...
- 9/11/2023
- by Jared Mobarak
- The Film Stage
Filmmaker Taika Waititi’s new film ‘Next Goal Wins’ is based on the true story of the American Samoa soccer team, infamous for their brutal 31-0 FIFA loss in 2001. Their story was immortalised in the 2014 documentary of the same name by Mike Brett and Steve Jamison.
Waititi has admitted that he took some creative liberties in adapting the story for the screen, reports Variety. “I had to twist the truth,” he told the audience before the world premiere at the Toronto Film Festival. “Otherwise, watch the documentary.”
‘Next Goal Wins’ picks up with the World Cup Qualifiers approaching, as the team hires down-on-his-luck coach Thomas Rongen (Michael Fassbender) in the hopes he will turn around their bleak track record.
Waititi, who was last at the festival with 2019’s Oscar-winner ‘Jojo Rabbit’, said that the film is about finding your family. “Sometimes it doesn’t need to be related by blood,...
Waititi has admitted that he took some creative liberties in adapting the story for the screen, reports Variety. “I had to twist the truth,” he told the audience before the world premiere at the Toronto Film Festival. “Otherwise, watch the documentary.”
‘Next Goal Wins’ picks up with the World Cup Qualifiers approaching, as the team hires down-on-his-luck coach Thomas Rongen (Michael Fassbender) in the hopes he will turn around their bleak track record.
Waititi, who was last at the festival with 2019’s Oscar-winner ‘Jojo Rabbit’, said that the film is about finding your family. “Sometimes it doesn’t need to be related by blood,...
- 9/11/2023
- by Agency News Desk
- GlamSham
Taika Waititi’s underdog soccer comedy Next Goal Wins brought a Toronto Film Festival audience to its feet, with particular applause showered on the real-life characters, coach Thomas Rongen and transgender soccer player Jaiyah Saelua, who were in the house for the world premiere at the Princess of Wales Theatre on Sunday night.
“That’s the most interesting part of the story,” Waititi said in a post-screening Q&a as he introduced Jaiyah, the striker for the true-life American Samoa soccer team that infamously lost a game in 2001 31-0, and who is played in the film by Kaimana.
Waititi also brought onstage the gruff Dutch soccer coach Rongen, who is played by Michael Fassbender in Next Goal Wins, and who at a low point in his life ended up saving his career by coaching the losing American Samoan team.
“You spun my head around a few times in this film,” Rongen...
“That’s the most interesting part of the story,” Waititi said in a post-screening Q&a as he introduced Jaiyah, the striker for the true-life American Samoa soccer team that infamously lost a game in 2001 31-0, and who is played in the film by Kaimana.
Waititi also brought onstage the gruff Dutch soccer coach Rongen, who is played by Michael Fassbender in Next Goal Wins, and who at a low point in his life ended up saving his career by coaching the losing American Samoan team.
“You spun my head around a few times in this film,” Rongen...
- 9/11/2023
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Taika Waititi’s new film “Next Goal Wins” is based on the true story of the American Samoa soccer team, infamous for their brutal 31-0 FIFA loss in 2001. Their story was immortalized in the 2014 documentary of the same name by Mike Brett and Steve Jamison, so Waititi admits he took some creative liberties in adapting the story for the screen.
“I had to twist the truth,” he told the audience before the world premiere at the Toronto Film Festival. “Otherwise, watch the documentary.”
“Next Goal Wins” picks up with the World Cup Qualifiers approaching, as the team hires down-on-his-luck coach Thomas Rongen (Michael Fassbender) in the hopes he will turn around their bleak track record.
Waititi, who was last at the festival with 2019’s Oscar-winner “Jojo Rabbit,” says the film is about finding your family. “Sometimes it doesn’t need to be related by blood,” he said, adding in a sing-songy voice: “Find your tribe.
“I had to twist the truth,” he told the audience before the world premiere at the Toronto Film Festival. “Otherwise, watch the documentary.”
“Next Goal Wins” picks up with the World Cup Qualifiers approaching, as the team hires down-on-his-luck coach Thomas Rongen (Michael Fassbender) in the hopes he will turn around their bleak track record.
Waititi, who was last at the festival with 2019’s Oscar-winner “Jojo Rabbit,” says the film is about finding your family. “Sometimes it doesn’t need to be related by blood,” he said, adding in a sing-songy voice: “Find your tribe.
- 9/11/2023
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
Taika Waititi returned to TIFF tonight with his underdog soccer story about the American Samoa team, Next Goal Wins, which received great cheers and a heartfelt response.
Waititi took the stage with the pic’s real-life characters, Thomas Rogen, the Dutch coach played by Michael Fassbender in the film, and Jaiyah Saelua, the first openly non-binary and trans-woman to compete in a FIFA World Cup qualifier.
The pic, directed and co-written by the Oscar winner, is inspired by 2014 documentary which follows the American Samoa soccer team, infamous for their brutal 31-0 loss to Australia in a 2001 World Cup qualifying match. With more qualifiers approaching, the ragtag squad hires down-on-his-luck, maverick Dutch-American coach Thomas Rongen (Michael Fassbender) in the hope he will turn the world’s worst soccer team around.
“Normally you don’t see a sports film about winners who keep winning,” Waititi joked, “I couldn’t believe this was a true story.
Waititi took the stage with the pic’s real-life characters, Thomas Rogen, the Dutch coach played by Michael Fassbender in the film, and Jaiyah Saelua, the first openly non-binary and trans-woman to compete in a FIFA World Cup qualifier.
The pic, directed and co-written by the Oscar winner, is inspired by 2014 documentary which follows the American Samoa soccer team, infamous for their brutal 31-0 loss to Australia in a 2001 World Cup qualifying match. With more qualifiers approaching, the ragtag squad hires down-on-his-luck, maverick Dutch-American coach Thomas Rongen (Michael Fassbender) in the hope he will turn the world’s worst soccer team around.
“Normally you don’t see a sports film about winners who keep winning,” Waititi joked, “I couldn’t believe this was a true story.
- 9/11/2023
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
The Hollywood Reporter arts and culture critic Lovia Gyarkye shares her list of the 10 must-see films at this month’s Toronto Film Festival.
The Boy and the Heron The Boy and the Heron
How lucky for us that Hayao Miyazaki, the animation master with a gift for enchanting world-building, didn’t stay retired? The prolific Japanese filmmaker makes an exciting return with The Boy and the Heron, which opened in Japan earlier this summer. Inspired by Genzaburo Yoshino’s novel How Do You Live?, The Boy and the Heron chronicles the adventures of a young, bereft boy who discovers an abandoned tower and a persistent grey heron while exploring his new town.
Dicks: The Musical
A24’s first musical feature is a ride that, for better or worse, I’m ready to get on. Comedians Aaron Jackson and Josh Sharp play two businessmen who find out they are twins and try to reunite their parents.
The Boy and the Heron The Boy and the Heron
How lucky for us that Hayao Miyazaki, the animation master with a gift for enchanting world-building, didn’t stay retired? The prolific Japanese filmmaker makes an exciting return with The Boy and the Heron, which opened in Japan earlier this summer. Inspired by Genzaburo Yoshino’s novel How Do You Live?, The Boy and the Heron chronicles the adventures of a young, bereft boy who discovers an abandoned tower and a persistent grey heron while exploring his new town.
Dicks: The Musical
A24’s first musical feature is a ride that, for better or worse, I’m ready to get on. Comedians Aaron Jackson and Josh Sharp play two businessmen who find out they are twins and try to reunite their parents.
- 9/7/2023
- by Lovia Gyarkye
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The first world premiere for the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) has been announced, with Taika Waititi’s “Next Goal Wins” debuting at this year’s festival.
The long-awaited sports comedy is directed and co-written by Waititi. “Next Goal Wins” will make its world premiere at the 48th annual film festival, which runs September 7 through 17.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Taika back to the festival and share his audacious take on the most popular sport in the world,” Cameron Bailey, CEO of TIFF, said in a press statement. “‘Next Goal Wins’ is perfect for TIFF fans of the beautiful game looking for their football fix…”
“Next Goal Wins” is based on the 2014 documentary of the same name and follows the American Samoa soccer team, infamous for their brutal 31-0 FIFA loss in 2001. With the World Cup Qualifiers approaching, the team hires down-on-his-luck, maverick coach Thomas Rongen (Michael Fassbender), hoping he...
The long-awaited sports comedy is directed and co-written by Waititi. “Next Goal Wins” will make its world premiere at the 48th annual film festival, which runs September 7 through 17.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Taika back to the festival and share his audacious take on the most popular sport in the world,” Cameron Bailey, CEO of TIFF, said in a press statement. “‘Next Goal Wins’ is perfect for TIFF fans of the beautiful game looking for their football fix…”
“Next Goal Wins” is based on the 2014 documentary of the same name and follows the American Samoa soccer team, infamous for their brutal 31-0 FIFA loss in 2001. With the World Cup Qualifiers approaching, the team hires down-on-his-luck, maverick coach Thomas Rongen (Michael Fassbender), hoping he...
- 6/28/2023
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Searchlight Pictures has released the trailer for Taika Waititi’s upcoming sports comedy-drama film, “Next Goal Wins.”
Based on directors Mike Brett and Steve Jamison’s 2014 documentary of the same name, “Next Goal Wins” follows the true story of unorthodox coach Thomas Rongen (Michael Fassbender) as he attempts to turn the American Samoa national soccer team into champions. The film takes place after the soccer team’s infamous 31-0 FIFA loss in 2001.
Along with Fassbender, the film stars Elisabeth Moss, Will Arnett, Uli Latukefu, Rhys Darby, Oscar Kightley, David Fane, Lehi Falepapalangi, Semu Filipo, Rachel House, Angus Sampson, Frankie Adams, Beulah Koale, Sisa Grey, Russell Satele, Karim Benz, and Chris Aloso. Variety exclusively reported in Nov. 2019 that Kaimana, a fa’afafine non-binary actor, will portray Jaiyah Saelua, the first non-binary player to compete in a men’s FIFA World Cup qualifier.
“It was vital,” Waititi told Variety about casting a non-binary actor for the role.
Based on directors Mike Brett and Steve Jamison’s 2014 documentary of the same name, “Next Goal Wins” follows the true story of unorthodox coach Thomas Rongen (Michael Fassbender) as he attempts to turn the American Samoa national soccer team into champions. The film takes place after the soccer team’s infamous 31-0 FIFA loss in 2001.
Along with Fassbender, the film stars Elisabeth Moss, Will Arnett, Uli Latukefu, Rhys Darby, Oscar Kightley, David Fane, Lehi Falepapalangi, Semu Filipo, Rachel House, Angus Sampson, Frankie Adams, Beulah Koale, Sisa Grey, Russell Satele, Karim Benz, and Chris Aloso. Variety exclusively reported in Nov. 2019 that Kaimana, a fa’afafine non-binary actor, will portray Jaiyah Saelua, the first non-binary player to compete in a men’s FIFA World Cup qualifier.
“It was vital,” Waititi told Variety about casting a non-binary actor for the role.
- 4/26/2023
- by Michaela Zee
- Variety Film + TV
Taika Waititi is continuing his Hollywood winning streak with “Next Goal Wins.”
The long-awaited soccer-centric comedy, distributed by Searchlight Pictures, is based on the true story of a Dutch soccer coach who helps the American Samoa national team in Hawaii reach new heights.
Michael Fassbender stars as Thomas Rongen, the coach who finds himself on the other side of the world put in charge of the planet’s worst soccer team, per the official synopsis. After suffering a world record loss in a competitive international football match, a crushing 31-0 defeat to Australia, the American Samoa national team sought to uncover a hidden spark within their side by appointing a new and innovative coach with some different ideas.
Rongen’s life story was captured in a 2014 documentary of the same name, leading Waititi to co-write its adaptation alongside Iain Morris.
Elisabeth Moss stars as Coach Rongen’s ex-wife and Will Arnett plays a soccer executive.
The long-awaited soccer-centric comedy, distributed by Searchlight Pictures, is based on the true story of a Dutch soccer coach who helps the American Samoa national team in Hawaii reach new heights.
Michael Fassbender stars as Thomas Rongen, the coach who finds himself on the other side of the world put in charge of the planet’s worst soccer team, per the official synopsis. After suffering a world record loss in a competitive international football match, a crushing 31-0 defeat to Australia, the American Samoa national team sought to uncover a hidden spark within their side by appointing a new and innovative coach with some different ideas.
Rongen’s life story was captured in a 2014 documentary of the same name, leading Waititi to co-write its adaptation alongside Iain Morris.
Elisabeth Moss stars as Coach Rongen’s ex-wife and Will Arnett plays a soccer executive.
- 4/26/2023
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
One of the benefits of being a Taika Waititi fan (Waititians? Taikalites? I'll workshop it) these days is that you rarely have to wait long for his next project to pop up, be it something he directed, wrote, or stars in, if not all three (as is often the case). That also makes it less of a big deal when one of his ventures leaves you, shall we say, underwhelmed.
Case in point: If Waititi's superhero sequel "Thor: Love and Thunder" wasn't your cup of tea and left you wishing he would get back to his roots in making quirky low-budget dramedies, then I come bearing good news. His latest directorial effort, "Next Goal Wins," sees Waititi tackling another story about misfits that blends broad humor with real pathos. If that title sounds familiar, it's because the film is based on Mike Brett and Steve Jamison's 2014 sports documentary of...
Case in point: If Waititi's superhero sequel "Thor: Love and Thunder" wasn't your cup of tea and left you wishing he would get back to his roots in making quirky low-budget dramedies, then I come bearing good news. His latest directorial effort, "Next Goal Wins," sees Waititi tackling another story about misfits that blends broad humor with real pathos. If that title sounds familiar, it's because the film is based on Mike Brett and Steve Jamison's 2014 sports documentary of...
- 12/22/2022
- by Sandy Schaefer
- Slash Film
Rather than take some time off, Taika Waititi is already at work on his next film. Production has begun on Waititi’s Next Goal Wins, a sports dramadey starring Michael Fassbender and Elisabeth Moss. In addition to Fassbender and moss, the Next Goal Wins cast has added non-binary actor Kaimana as Jaiyah Saelua, the first non-binary soccer player to compete in […]
The post Taika Waititi’s ‘Next Goal Wins’ Begins Production, Adds Non-Binary Actor Kaimana to Cast appeared first on /Film.
The post Taika Waititi’s ‘Next Goal Wins’ Begins Production, Adds Non-Binary Actor Kaimana to Cast appeared first on /Film.
- 11/15/2019
- by Chris Evangelista
- Slash Film
Taika Waititi has cast Kaimana, a fa’afafine or non-binary person in his upcoming sports film “Next Goal Wins.” Kaimana, who uses one name, will portray Jaiyah Saelua, the first non-binary player to compete in a men’s FIFA World Cup qualifier.
Kaimana, who is making their acting debut in the film, identifies as fa’afafine, a person who does not identify as male or female. It is considered a third gender in Samoan culture and often referred to as transgender or non-binary.
“Next Goal Wins,” based on a 2014 documentary, stars Michael Fassbender and Elisabeth Moss. It tells the true story of the American Samoan soccer team’s fight to redeem itself after having the biggest losing streak in international soccer.
Waititi tells Variety that he never thought of considering cisgender actors for the role. “It was vital,” he said. “There was no way we would have approached it in any other way.
Kaimana, who is making their acting debut in the film, identifies as fa’afafine, a person who does not identify as male or female. It is considered a third gender in Samoan culture and often referred to as transgender or non-binary.
“Next Goal Wins,” based on a 2014 documentary, stars Michael Fassbender and Elisabeth Moss. It tells the true story of the American Samoan soccer team’s fight to redeem itself after having the biggest losing streak in international soccer.
Waititi tells Variety that he never thought of considering cisgender actors for the role. “It was vital,” he said. “There was no way we would have approached it in any other way.
- 11/14/2019
- by Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
A charming film about the struggles of American Samoa's national side to improve its performance on the field
Having infamously lost 31-0 to Australia, the "world's worst football team" American Samoa attempt to regain a sense of national pride by enlisting a coach and a couple of related off-islanders to help them rise from the bottom of the league during the World Cup qualifiers. Whether or not you give two hoots about "the beautiful game" (and I don't), this charming and uplifting documentary will have you cheering for the underdogs and wishing that all footballers were this humble, determined and just plain decent. The star is transgender player Jaiyah Saelua, who tackles hard and comes up smiling, winning the respect of gruff coach Thomas Rongen, a tough nut with personal tragedy in his past who is reduced to tears by the efforts of his team. You'll be the same; watching...
Having infamously lost 31-0 to Australia, the "world's worst football team" American Samoa attempt to regain a sense of national pride by enlisting a coach and a couple of related off-islanders to help them rise from the bottom of the league during the World Cup qualifiers. Whether or not you give two hoots about "the beautiful game" (and I don't), this charming and uplifting documentary will have you cheering for the underdogs and wishing that all footballers were this humble, determined and just plain decent. The star is transgender player Jaiyah Saelua, who tackles hard and comes up smiling, winning the respect of gruff coach Thomas Rongen, a tough nut with personal tragedy in his past who is reduced to tears by the efforts of his team. You'll be the same; watching...
- 5/10/2014
- by Mark Kermode, Observer film critic
- The Guardian - Film News
Next Goal Wins kicks off with a flashback to 2001, when the American Samoa national football team conceded a record-breaking 31 goals without reply against Australia in a World Cup qualifier. Branded the worst team in the world and ranked rock bottom of the FIFA rankings, a decade later the team turn to maverick Dutch coach Thomas Rongen to help them qualify for the 2014 World Cup.
There are more than a few elements of a typical sports story in Next Goal Wins, then, but as rise of the underdog stories go this is as satisfying as they come. Initially the team’s football skills (or lack thereof) is a source of constant amusement. However, even before the film gives us a deeper focus on some of its central players (more on that later), the passion and sheer joy on display makes American Samoa a team that’s easy to get behind and root for.
There are more than a few elements of a typical sports story in Next Goal Wins, then, but as rise of the underdog stories go this is as satisfying as they come. Initially the team’s football skills (or lack thereof) is a source of constant amusement. However, even before the film gives us a deeper focus on some of its central players (more on that later), the passion and sheer joy on display makes American Samoa a team that’s easy to get behind and root for.
- 5/9/2014
- by Amon Warmann
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
A documentary about what appears to be one of the worst football teams on the planet? Rob checks out Next Goal Wins...
Despite being far from a perfect documentary, Next Goal Wins demands attention by offering an insight to one of the most inspirational underdog stories in recent memory. For this surprisingly uplifting picture takes you inside the training camp for American Samoa’s national football team, as they desperately hunt for their first win in over 30 games.
From the opening montage, which compiles all the goals from their record-breaking 31-0 loss to Australia back in 2001, it’s immediately noticeable that these players are smiling and laughing despite their position at the very bottom of FIFA’s world rankings.
This against-all-odds optimism in the squad makes them an engaging bunch to spend time with: you’ll probably be fervently supporting them by the final act. Emotional engagement at the very...
Despite being far from a perfect documentary, Next Goal Wins demands attention by offering an insight to one of the most inspirational underdog stories in recent memory. For this surprisingly uplifting picture takes you inside the training camp for American Samoa’s national football team, as they desperately hunt for their first win in over 30 games.
From the opening montage, which compiles all the goals from their record-breaking 31-0 loss to Australia back in 2001, it’s immediately noticeable that these players are smiling and laughing despite their position at the very bottom of FIFA’s world rankings.
This against-all-odds optimism in the squad makes them an engaging bunch to spend time with: you’ll probably be fervently supporting them by the final act. Emotional engagement at the very...
- 5/9/2014
- by simonbrew
- Den of Geek
I could not possibly care less about football, and I fell hopelessly in love with this movie, and with the can-do amateur team it introduces us to. I’m “biast” (pro): nothing
I’m “biast” (con): not a fan of football/soccer
(what is this about? see my critic’s minifesto)
We film critics are a jaded, jaded lot. We tend, as a group, not to respond in overtly obvious emotional ways while watching a film. It’s not that we don’t care — it’s that we’ve seen it all and it’s much harder to take us by surprise. Could be, too, that the majority of critics are men, and many men will stifle sniffles, especially, quicker than women will. (I’ve sometimes been the only critic in a screening room who needs a Kleenex or three at the end of a film.) So when...
I’m “biast” (con): not a fan of football/soccer
(what is this about? see my critic’s minifesto)
We film critics are a jaded, jaded lot. We tend, as a group, not to respond in overtly obvious emotional ways while watching a film. It’s not that we don’t care — it’s that we’ve seen it all and it’s much harder to take us by surprise. Could be, too, that the majority of critics are men, and many men will stifle sniffles, especially, quicker than women will. (I’ve sometimes been the only critic in a screening room who needs a Kleenex or three at the end of a film.) So when...
- 5/7/2014
- by MaryAnn Johanson
- www.flickfilosopher.com
While it’s undoubtedly fascinating to interview actors and directors and to get into the heart of the industry and the craft in embodying other people and roles – when you watch a riveting, emotional documentary such as Next Goal Wins, the chance to interview the subjects themselves, the genuine people who lived through the events you’re seeing on screen, is something different altogether, something pretty special.
So you can imagine our excitement when we sat down with Jaiyah Saelua and Thomas Rongen, two stars of a documentary feature that explores the American Somao football team – the lowest ranked team in FIFA world standings. The former is the world’s first ever transgender footballer to play the professional game, while the latter is the Dutch coach who came in hoping to change the fortunes of this hapless side…
Next Goal Wins is out on 7 May (nationwide previews) and 9 May (select...
So you can imagine our excitement when we sat down with Jaiyah Saelua and Thomas Rongen, two stars of a documentary feature that explores the American Somao football team – the lowest ranked team in FIFA world standings. The former is the world’s first ever transgender footballer to play the professional game, while the latter is the Dutch coach who came in hoping to change the fortunes of this hapless side…
Next Goal Wins is out on 7 May (nationwide previews) and 9 May (select...
- 5/7/2014
- by Stefan Pape
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Directors: Mike Brett, Steve Jamison; Starring: Thomas Rongen, Jaiyah Saelua, Nicky Salapu, Rawlston Masaniai; Running time: 98 mins; Certificate: 15
Right now we're at the business end of the 2013/14 football season - teams are battling it out to secure trophies, scrapping for every point, each margin of victory crucial with millions of pounds on the line. At the highest level where the sport is a cut-throat business, the beautiful game can be ugly.
At the opposite end of the spectrum is the story of the American Samoa national team. In 2001 they were pounded 31-0 by Australia and followed it up with 30 consecutive defeats, during which time even a goal in the 'for' column was a collector's item. They ranked rock bottom of the FIFA rankings going into qualification for the World Cup 2014.
Documentary Next Goal Wins charts American Samoa's qualification campaign from the perspective of the team's more outgoing characters and their Dutch coach,...
Right now we're at the business end of the 2013/14 football season - teams are battling it out to secure trophies, scrapping for every point, each margin of victory crucial with millions of pounds on the line. At the highest level where the sport is a cut-throat business, the beautiful game can be ugly.
At the opposite end of the spectrum is the story of the American Samoa national team. In 2001 they were pounded 31-0 by Australia and followed it up with 30 consecutive defeats, during which time even a goal in the 'for' column was a collector's item. They ranked rock bottom of the FIFA rankings going into qualification for the World Cup 2014.
Documentary Next Goal Wins charts American Samoa's qualification campaign from the perspective of the team's more outgoing characters and their Dutch coach,...
- 5/6/2014
- Digital Spy
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.