While the film may stick rigidly to the genre playbook, that doesn鈥檛 mean Waititi isn鈥檛 having some fun with it. He鈥檚 playing by the rules, but has still found room to be creative.

| Feb 12, 2025

鈥he show stealer is Oscar Kightley aka Tavita, who lits up the screens with his wit and bang-on comic timing along with some emotional scenes. The rest of the cast perfectly fits the bill.

| Original Score: 3/5 | Dec 23, 2024

Completely fails to charm.

| Original Score: 2/5 | Dec 11, 2024

With such steadfast faith in audiences, it’s a wonder the film didn’t include a laugh track.

| Original Score: 2/5 | Jul 19, 2024

It’s also supremely apt that, like the team featured in the film, Waititi fumbles the ball at every turn.

| Original Score: 1/5 | Jul 2, 2024

Next Goal Wins is uplifting, silly, predictable, but also basic.

| Original Score: 2/5 | Mar 6, 2024

Taika Waititi masterfully combines humor with themes of identity in Next Goal Wins, highlighting his distinctive style.

| Original Score: 3/5 | Mar 4, 2024

Imperfect and struggles to make a splash in the wake of Ted Lasso, but it’s still an sweet, uplifting ride

| Original Score: 2.5/4 | Mar 2, 2024

... "Next Goal Wins" offers viewers a film that plays like comfort food: inviting, enjoyable, and filling. It may not work for everyone, but if you’re in the camp that leans more toward Waititi’s wavelength, "Next Goal Wins" scores.

| Original Score: 3.5/5 | Feb 28, 2024

You know how it's going to end, but you can't resist watching it again because it makes you feel good to watch it. ... the joy and satisfaction comes from how the film has been prepared and served. Let's just say: it's a good treat.

| Feb 21, 2024

Next Goal Wins misses the net way too many times.

| Feb 20, 2024

Though not without its flaws, this comedy-drama may not reach the heights of greatness, but it undeniably succeeds in delivering entertainment value, making it a worthwhile watch for those seeking light-hearted uplifting entertainment.

| Original Score: 3.5/5 | Feb 16, 2024

Rather than push himself outside his comfort zone, Waititi doubles down on his signature style.

| Feb 5, 2024

The plot of Next Goal Wins is perched on repeated digs at how island life is rooted in faith and exoticised by the West, but ultimately, the film ends up leaning into precisely those same clich茅s.

| Feb 3, 2024

A heartwarming yet slightly disjointed tale. Some strong performances that make it a charming underdog story.

| Original Score: 3.5/5 | Jan 25, 2024

Through the lens presented and intended audience, Next Goal Wins works best on surface. The Māori & Pasifika talent form the foundation of all it's warmth. While there was warmth, I was yearning for effervescent heat.

| Original Score: 3/5 | Jan 25, 2024

Takes what should be an inspirational and heartwarming story and makes it awkward and cringey.

| Original Score: 2/5 | Jan 17, 2024

The film gamely ticks several boxes viewers have come to expect from against-the-odds sports movies.

| Original Score: 3/5 | Jan 12, 2024

Even the jokes that take aim at its own white saviour narrative are eye-rolling.

| Original Score: 2/5 | Jan 8, 2024

Yes, this movie is full of self deprecating humour and silliness but it still delivers.

| Jan 4, 2024