The film improves noticeably toward the end, though before that point *Next Goal Wins* doesn’t fare well. I generally enjoy Taika Waititi’s humor and find it entertaining, but here the comedy feels flat and frustratingly unfunny. I'm familiar with the true story behind this movie because of my interest in soccer, yet it seems to occupy an awkward space between appealing to sports enthusiasts and general audiences.…

Those familiar with films like "12 Mighty Orphans" or "The Shiny Shrimps" will likely recognize the formula at play as Taika Waititi adapts it for this football story. Michael Fassbender takes on the role of the coach, Thomas Rongen, a man struggling with his own issues in what’s presented as a true account. He's not particularly effective and seems somewhat unstable, leading to him being assigned to lead what is off…

The movie contains a familiar narrative structure, despite moments where it wanders into silliness without justification. Despite its shortcomings and occasionally tiresome jokes, _Next Goal Wins_ feels like Taika Waititi’s most focused work since _Hunt for the Wilderpeople_.