Taika Waititi’s film, Next Goal Wins, is set to make its world premiere at the Toronto Film Festival. The soccer comedy, directed and co-written by the acclaimed New Zealand filmmaker, is scheduled for release on November 17 by Searchlight Pictures after its debut in Toronto.
Next Goal Wins is based on a 2014 British documentary of the same name by Mike Brett and Steve Jamison. It tells the underdog story of the national football team of American Samoa and their coach, Thomas Rongen (played by Michael Fassbender), as they attempt to transform from perennial losers into a FIFA World Cup-qualifying team.
The film features a star-studded cast, including Michael Fassbender, Will Arnett, Elisabeth Moss, Oscar Kightley, Kaimana, David Fane, Rachel House, Beulah Koale, Uli Latukefu, and Semu Filipo.
Originally slated for an April 2023 release, Next Goal Wins had to undergo reshoots when Armie Hammer exited the project following multiple allegations of sexual assault against him. Will Arnett replaced Hammer in the role of a soccer executive working at the Football Federation American Samoa, necessitating the need for reshoots.
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“We’re thrilled to welcome Taika back to the Festival and share his audacious take on the most popular sport in the world,” said Cameron Bailey, CEO of TIFF, ahead of the festival’s 48th edition, which is set to run from September 7 to 17. Waititi had previously premiered his film Jojo Rabbit at TIFF, where it won the festival’s top audience award and went on to win an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.
In addition to Next Goal Wins, Waititi was also in theaters with Marvel Studios’ Thor: Love and Thunder, further cementing his status as a visionary filmmaker in both independent and blockbuster realms.
The Toronto Film Festival is one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, showcasing a diverse range of international films and attracting industry professionals, critics, and filmmakers from around the globe. The inclusion of Next Goal Wins in the festival’s lineup is a testament to the anticipation and excitement surrounding Waititi’s latest project.
With its combination of comedy and sports underdog narrative, Next Goal Wins promises to be an entertaining and uplifting film that explores themes of determination, teamwork, and chasing one’s dreams. The story of the American Samoa football team’s journey towards qualifying for the FIFA World Cup is an inspiring tale of perseverance and triumph against all odds.
Waititi’s unique approach to storytelling, characterized by his humor, distinctive visual style, and ability to balance comedy with emotional depth, has garnered him critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. His previous films, such as Jojo Rabbit and Thor: Ragnarok, have captivated audiences and cemented his reputation as a talented and versatile filmmaker.
The inclusion of Next Goal Wins at the Toronto Film Festival will provide a platform for the film to reach a wider audience and generate buzz and anticipation leading up to its release. The festival’s global reach and reputation as a hub for discovering new talents and showcasing quality cinema will undoubtedly contribute to the film’s success and further establish Waititi as a filmmaker to watch.
In conclusion, Taika Waititi’s Next Goal Wins is set to premiere at the Toronto Film Festival, providing audiences with a comedic and inspiring underdog story centered around the American Samoa football team. With an all-star cast and Waititi’s unique storytelling style, the film is poised to entertain and resonate with viewers, further solidifying Waititi’s status as one of the industry’s most talented and exciting filmmakers.
