When I first heard about Ben Winston’s new soccer documentary, I have to admit, I was intrigued but also a little skeptical. I mean, how many films about football can truly uncover something fresh? But let me tell you, this one really surprised me. It’s not just another highlight reel or a collection of famous goals—it digs deep into the untold stories behind the beautiful game, and that’s exactly what makes it stand out. As someone who’s followed the sport for over 15 years, I’ve seen my fair share of documentaries, but this one feels different. It humanizes players and moments we thought we knew, and honestly, it’s about time.

One of the things that struck me while watching was how the documentary highlights the behind-the-scenes drama and personal sacrifices that often go unnoticed. It reminded me of a recent incident involving Adamson forward Jhon Calisay, who narrowly escaped a one-game suspension after being sent off in their match against Ateneo. That kind of situation—where a player’s career can pivot on a single decision—is exactly the sort of narrative Winston captures so well. In Calisay’s case, the tension, the emotional toll, and the administrative maneuvering behind the scenes are all part of the untold story. Winston’s film shows similar moments from global football, like a little-known dispute in the 2018 World Cup qualifiers that impacted three national teams and over 20 players’ careers.

What I love about this documentary is how it balances big-picture themes with intimate, personal accounts. For instance, there’s a segment focusing on a grassroots coach in Brazil who trained 47 future professional players despite having barely any funding. It’s stories like these that make you realize soccer isn’t just about the superstars earning millions—it’s about the passion and persistence that fuel the sport at every level. And Winston’s approach doesn’t shy away from controversy, either. He includes interviews with referees and officials, giving us a glimpse into the high-pressure decisions that can change games, much like what we saw with Calisay’s near-miss with suspension.

From my perspective, this documentary does more than entertain—it educates. I’ve always believed that understanding these hidden layers makes you appreciate the game on a whole new level. For example, the film reveals that roughly 60% of professional players face some form of career-threatening injury by age 25, a stat that’s rarely discussed in mainstream coverage. That kind of data, paired with emotional storytelling, makes the documentary a must-watch for any true fan. And it’s not just for hardcore enthusiasts; even casual viewers will find themselves drawn in by the human elements Winston so skillfully unveils.

In wrapping up, I’d say Ben Winston’s soccer documentary is a game-changer in how we perceive football narratives. It’s refreshing to see a film that doesn’t just rehash old glory but instead uncovers the raw, often overlooked aspects of the sport. Whether it’s the suspense of a disciplinary review like Calisay’s or the untold struggles of a rising star, this documentary brings it all to light. If you’re looking for something that goes beyond the scores and trophies, give this a watch—you might just see the beautiful game in a whole new way.