Goal! II: Living the Dream (2007)

Goal! II: Living the Dream Poster

Tempted away from Newcastle United to join Real Madrid, rising star Santiago Munez finds this latest change of fortune the greatest challenge yet - personally as well as professionally. He is reunited with Gavin Harris, though they must compete to be on the team, and estranged from fiancee Roz, whose nursing career keeps her back home.

Introduction
"Goal! II: Living the Dream" is a 2007 sports drama film directed by Jaume Collet-Serra and produced by Mike Jefferies and Matt Barrelle. It is the 2nd installation of the "Goal!" trilogy, a series of football-centric films that tell the story of Santiago Munez, a young man with dreams of ending up being a professional footballer. Film Writer Mike Jefferies and Adrian Butchart continue to mesmerize audiences with an emotional roller-coaster laden with the trials and victories of Munez's career and individual life.

Story and Plot
The movie starts with Santiago Munez (Kuno Becker), who has actually successfully developed himself with Newcastle United at the English Premier League. He stands out of a scout for Real Madrid, among the world's leading football clubs. Santiago is signed by the club and transfers to Spain to play together with football legends like David Beckham, Ronaldo, and Zinedine Zidane.

His life takes a remarkable turn as he steps into the glamorous world of international football, grappling with fame and wealth. Santiago's character is checked throughout the motion picture amidst romantic entanglements, strained relationships, and disputes with arrogant colleagues, especially with star player Gavin Harris (Alessandro Nivola).

Themes and Features
The motion picture explores themes of aspiration, the rate of fame, betrayal, relationship, and the importance of remaining grounded in spite of incredible success. The narrative effectively highlights the obstacles dealt with by Santiago as he fights contractual problems, the pressure of top-tier football, and personal dramas.

The struggles Santiago experiences off the pitch are simply as fascinating as the matches he plays on it. He finds out the hard way some important life lessons, adding depth and growth to the character first introduced in the initial "Goal!" film.

"Goal! II: Living the Dream" encapsulates the excitement of expert football while still managing to provide a genuine personal story. High quality production, interesting plot, and the depiction of genuine football stars gives the motion picture a practical touch. Scenes shot in the special Santiago Bernabeu arena, the home of Real Madrid, contribute considerably to the viewer's football experience.

Efficiency and Reception
Kuno Becker provides a meaningful performance representing Santiago's trials and adversities, while Alessandro Nivola plays the arrogant yet vulnerable Gavin with ease and depth. Supporting performances by likes of Anna Friel and Rutger Hauer further enrich the movie.

Upon release, the movie received blended evaluations, some critics kept in mind the distinct insight the movie offered into the world of expert football, while others criticised it for its significant plotline and stereotyped characters. Nevertheless, the motion picture gained popularity amongst football fans owing to its immersive insight into the life of an expert sportsperson, the dynamic football series and a metropolitan soundtrack.

Conclusion
All in all, "Goal! II: Living the Dream" is a drama-packed follow up to the first Goal! movie, providing the audience with an in-depth insight into the highs and lows of professional football. While a touch of fiction and over-dramatization might captivate some and repulse others, the film provides a fascinating story that keeps audiences mesmerized throughout. The appealing cinematography, fascinating performances and exciting football action make the film a pleasurable watch especially for sports enthusiasts.

Top Cast

  • Kuno Becker (small)
    Kuno Becker
    Santiago Muñez
  • Stephen Dillane (small)
    Stephen Dillane
    Glen Foy
  • Anna Friel (small)
    Anna Friel
    Roz Harmison
  • Leonor Varela (small)
    Leonor Varela
    Jordana Garcia
  • Elizabeth Peña (small)
    Elizabeth Peña
    Rosa Maria
  • Carmelo Gómez (small)
    Carmelo Gómez
    Burruchaga
  • Miriam Colon (small)
    Miriam Colon
    Mercedes
  • Frances Barber (small)
    Frances Barber
    Carol Harmison
  • William Beck (small)
    William Beck
    Steve Parr
  • Kieran O'Brien (small)
    Kieran O'Brien
    Hughie McGowan
  • Sean Pertwee (small)
    Sean Pertwee
    Barry Rankin