Next Goal Wins follows generic underdog formulas without developing the necessary drama. Scenes aren't motivated or earned, they just happen out of mindless routine. Characters are flat, cultures are simplified, comedy is one-note, sports strategies are ignored, and themes are actively avoided. There are empty platitudes of community and faith, but the emotional connections needed to solidify those ideas are missing. Consequently, every character arc feels forced. This story has potential (while also depicting an underrepresented region) and the acting provides decent charm, chemistry, timing, and vulnerability, but that's all squandered in this scattered script.
Technically, Next Goal Wins is disposable. Its direction is basic, overly light, and sometimes careless. The editing uses archive footage, inserts, repeat cuts, freeze frames, excessive montages, clunky pacing, defused momentum, and a sloppy structure. Its effects are minimal and iffy. The music offers superficial needle drops. Its sound has voiceovers, smash cuts, split cuts, and emphasis. The cinematography is mostly flat. Its production design adds a sense of location. The casting provides moderate fame and appropriate representation. Ultimately, Next Goal Wins just doesn't possess many qualities of note. It's watchable but hardly worth making an effort to see.
Writing: 4/10
Direction: 4/10
Cinematography: 5/10
Acting: 7/10
Editing: 4/10
Sound: 5/10
Score/Soundtrack: 5/10
Production Design: 6/10
Casting: 7/10
Effects: 5/10
Overall Score: 5.2/10
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