Review~ Believe : The Soccer Movie
Synopsis
The family drama “Believe”, is set in 1984 and inspired by true events. The film is a funny and touching tale about Sir Matt Busby, legendary Manchester United football manager, who helps a wayward boy fulfill his dream. An act of petty crime by 11 year old Georgie becomes a collision of fate as Sir Matt tracks him down, only to discover that the boy is an extraordinarily gifted footballer and captain of a team of unruly talents. Having lived with football all his life and survived the tragic 1958 Munich plane disaster, in which eight of his young players were killed, Sir Matt is still committed to continue his work of ‘training lads for life’ and so begins a thrilling adventure as Sir Matt Busby, comes out of retirement to transform a young group of boys into a dream team.
Review
I’ve hear about Manchester United at our local soccer club, but to be honest I knew nothing of their history of the legendary coach Matt Busby. I’d not hear of the fatal Munich crash that took the entire team and left their coach. In a film, with Field of Dreams like nuances, Believe the Soccer Movie warmed by heart, and I shed a tear or two. Set in England, the film follows young Georgie as he attempts to pick pocket the wrong person in hopes of entering his street soccer team into the Manchester Jr. Cup tournament. Sir Busby chases down the 11 year old thief and makes the boy promise he will allow the former U coach to be the manager of his team. But Georgie’s mother has a different idea for his future. He is to study, test and enter the local prestigious prep school for boys.
This soccer mom was inspired! The soundtrack of the movie includes songs I remember from the 90’s…the Smith’s and Musical Youth. The physical setting, I found to be a bit limited and narrow, but still enjoyable. I will take my children to see it as this is a family film. There is drinking, gambling, stealing and smoking , but I found nothing offensive. The only content that might be upsetting to young children are the numerous crash scene flashbacks where we see a bloodied Sir Matt Busby. You may want to also rent or buy the DVD to be able to rewind some portions where the English accent is a bit thick. As an American, I admit, I missed a bit of what they said.
Overall, the theme is one about believing in dreams. Inspirational and fun. Perfect if you have a footballer in your own family. Thanks to Excel Entertainment for the pre-screening!
Released By
EXCEL ENTERTAINMENT is the preeminent independent film distribution company in Utah, and though largely known for its Mormon-themed films (God’s Army, The Work & the Glory series, 17 Miracles, Pride & Prejudice, etc.), Excel has also had success releasing films with non-Mormon themes and stories (Forever Strong, Saints & Soldiers, etc.).
Although the technology and means by which audiences consume films is changing rapidly, the demand for highly creative storytelling that motivates us to live up to the light that each of us has been given is as high as ever. We feel a deep obligation to not only bring stories of hope to the world, but to promote films with high standards of craftsmanship reflective of a belief in a divine and benevolent creator.
Opened in U.S. theatres on September 12. Check your theatre listings for a viewing near you.
