Shooting for Socrates

There are many UK films that have a story outline similar to this; we love an underdog, especially if there's a lesson to be learned from the fight. It's almost better if the underdog loses, because then we can appreciate the joy of trying against all the odds. Against the background of the Troubles in Northern Ireland, this film demonstrates the power of football to unify people, helping them to put aside differences as they enjoy their shared love of the game. The background of the World Cup contrasts with the emotive personal challenges of some of those involved and, whilst it's formulaic, it does indeed inspire an emotional response. It will help if you like football, but there's enough basic humanity to capture anyone's attention. I'm not sure how people from other countries would feel about it all, but I think about 80% of UK households would enjoy this story and the joyous way it has been told. It's a crowd pleaser with no age restrictions.

As a Brazilian who loves America, I have to start saying American just don't get soccer/football movies. Understandable, baseball and american football ones also get lost in translation in Brazil. So, if you like football-soccer, rely less on American critics and fans. You may need an opinion that feels more like home.

I need to say right here, though: if you are not into football, there is little for you here (no need to finish this). Niche film. My rate is adapted to that, it is no masterpiece cinema.

I was happy to find a movie about the Irish campaign in 1986. They faced Brazil (the pinnacle of the film) and I followed every step of Pat Jennings, Bingham, Armstrong & co as a 13-year old. It was great to see again these lads on screen, learn about the dynamics and backstages of the squad - even if it's definitely not at all a documentary.

The bits about what is happening in Belfast are very satisfying to me. The family characters tell what was going on. They follow the light atmosphere of the movie. It is not about Trouble. It's about football, growing up, learning to be a fan of something (a sport, music, films etc). Dramatic comedy .

There are few things more interesting than the hunger for winning...by those used to frustration. A movie about Brazil or even Maradona wouldn't be as interesting. And without telling how it ends, I say the film does a good job of showing what Northern Ireland is - in football, at least, I must say.