The Toronto International Film Festival is one of fall’s most anticipated festivals, and they’re slowly unveiling their slate. Taika Waititi’s sports comedy Next Goal Wins is the first film to be added to the lineup and it will have its world premiere at TIFF.
Next Goal Wins draws inspiration from the documentary of the same name and it follows the journey of Dutch-American coach Thomas Rongen to transform American Samoa soccer team from the ground-up following their infamous 31-0 loss to Australia in a 2001 World Cup qualifying match.
Michael Fassbender leads the film’s star-studded ensamble, which also includes Elisabeth Moss, Oscar Kightley, Uli Latukefu, Rachel House, Kaimana, David Fane, Beulah Koale, Chris Alosio, Waititi, Will Arnett, and Rhys Darby.
Cameron Bailey, CEO of the Toronto International Film Festival, confirmed the film’s selection and described it as the perfect choice for this festival.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Taika back to the festival and share his audacious take on the most popular sport in the world. Next Goal Wins is perfect for TIFF fans of the beautiful game looking for their football fix until the 2024 World Cup arrives,” Bailey said in a statement.
The Toronto International Film Festival will take place between September 7-17, and the full schedule will be revealed on August 15.
