by Sammi Schenkel, Staff Reporter.
“Goal!” is the story of Santiago Munez (Kuno Becker), a young talented soccer player who grows up in the barrios of Los Angeles and lives with his little brother, his grandmother and his unsupportive father.
He plays on a local recreational league in his neighborhood where Glen Foy (Stephen Dillane) sees him perform and scouts him for Newcastle United. The only catch is that Santiago must find a way to get to London and try out for Newcastle.
It is Santiago’s dream to play for the big leagues. In England footballers (soccer players) are treated like celebrities, much like fans treat American football players. He meets a pretty nurse named Roz (Anna Friel) who gives him a physical examination where he learns he has asthma. Glen takes him in as he has no money or place to stay during his tryout. Santi has many trials and tribulations, along with successes on his path to playing on the big green pitch for Newcastle.
I do like this movie, I saw it before due to growing up around soccer for a majority of my young life. I played myself and my brother played for school, recreationally and for competitive league teams. It reflects the story soccer players (and most athletes) dream of.
The film is nothing truly spectacular in terms of shots, editing or cinematography. The story is the main focus. The game sequences were dramatic and puts you in a third person point of view from sideline conversations with the manager, to Glen and Roz cheering Santi on, to local pubs, to his family back in LA watching in anticipation. The use of slow-motion was used well as dramatic falls, kicks and goals were made.
The story is a rags to riches story at its core like most sports movies. Santi came from nothing and through hard work, a belief in himself and support from his team he became successful. It’s a bit stereotypical but even in my jaded heart it’s a nice film to watch.
“Goal! The Dream Begins” is screening as a part of Hispanic Heritage Month. The screening begins at 6:30 p.m. at the Delta Collegiate Planetarium, 100 Center Ave, Bay City. Delta’s women’s soccer team will be in attendance to sign autographs. Free popcorn and giveaways will be provided.
