Goal! (2005)

Goal! Poster

Like millions of kids around the world, Santiago harbors the dream of being a professional footballer... However, living in the Barrios section of Los Angeles, he thinks it is only that--a dream. Until one day an extraordinary turn of events has him trying out for Premiership club Newcastle United.

Introduction
"Goal!" is a sports and drama movie that was launched in 2005 directed by Danny Cannon. It reveals the traditional rags-to-riches philosophy, centered around the dream of a common man to become a remarkable football gamer. The protagonist is a young Hispanic guy from Los Angeles who gets the chance to make his dream come true with Newcastle United.

Plot Summary
The motion picture follows the life of Santiago Munez, played by Kuno Becker, an undocumented Mexican immigrant living in Los Angeles who has a profound ability and passion for football. Santiago faces a great deal of discontent and frustration from his dad, who desires Santiago to join the family's gardening organization instead. In spite of this, Santiago's grandma supports his passion and gives him a magical amulet which represents defense and good luck.

A major turning point in the film is when a former Newcastle United player, Glen Foy (played by Stephen Dillane), notifications Santiago playing in a regional league. Impressed by his impressive skill, Glen arranges for Santiago to get a trial with Newcastle United. After saying a difficult farewell to his family and girlfriend, Santiago travels to England to show himself.

Obstacles and Triumph
On his arrival, Santiago deals with a series of challenges. One of them is the city life that is entirely foreign to him. The unacclimatizing weather of Northeast England, and his asthmatic condition, turns his dreams into a difficult struggle. Santiago also has problem with the sceptical team management who believe Glen has actually made a substantial mistake bringing him there.

Santiago's journey from underdog to star is not direct; there's disheartening falls and stirring rises. Through the cyphers of vibrant characters he satisfies along his journey, like Gavin Harris (Alessandro Nivola), a star player who lost his charm due to his reckless way of life, Santiago learns about dedication, struggles, and passion. He presses himself beyond his limitations in order to make it through and adapt to the new truth.

Climax
The climax includes Santiago finally getting a possibility to display his skills in a nail-biting match against Fulham. With Newcastle United an objective down and hope apparently lost, Santiago duplicates his street football moves in the match, scoring 2 objectives and turning the game on its head. His performance in this match shows all his naysayers incorrect and affirms his position in the group.

Conclusion
"Goal!" is more than a sports drama, it's a journey of a boy navigating his method through difficulty to victory. With a continental contrast in between his grim life in Los Angeles, his impoverished background, and the glamour of international football, the film is embeded in the heart of human durability, dreams, and aspirations. The film ends making the audiences root for Santiago and leaves them eagerly waiting on what's next in Santiago's journey.

Top Cast

  • Kuno Becker (small)
    Kuno Becker
    Santiago Munez
  • Alessandro Nivola (small)
    Alessandro Nivola
    Gavin Harris
  • Anna Friel (small)
    Anna Friel
    Roz Harmison
  • Stephen Dillane (small)
    Stephen Dillane
    Glen Foy
  • Gary Lewis (small)
    Gary Lewis
    Mal Braithwaite
  • Kieran O'Brien (small)
    Kieran O'Brien
    Hughie McGowan
  • Sean Pertwee (small)
    Sean Pertwee
    Barry Rankin
  • Marcel Iure? (small)
    Marcel Iure?
    Erik Dornhelm
  • Tony Plana (small)
    Tony Plana
    Hernan Munez
  • Miriam Colon (small)
    Miriam Colon
    Mercedes
  • Kate Tomlinson
    Val