Taika Waititi ‘s Next Goal Wins Starts Principal Photography

Fox Searchlight Pictures have announced today that Taika Waititi‘s Next Goal Wins began production last week in Honolulu, Hawaii.

The film  tells the story of the American Samoa soccer team, who suffered the worst loss in World Cup history, losing to Australia 31-0 in 2001. With the 2014 World Cup approaching, the team recruits a down on his luck, maverick coach (Fassbender) to help turn their fate around.

Starring stars Michael Fassbender as the team’s coach. Alongside Elisabeth Moss,David Fane, Oscar Kightley, Beulah Koale, Lehi Falepapalangi, Semu Filipo, Uli Latukefu and Rachel House. The film is written by Waititi and Iain Morris.

Jaiyah Saelua will also be starring. Jaiyah is a Fa’afafine, a third gender or non-binary role recognised by traditional Samoan society. Also an original member of the team, ing them in 2003.

Icon Film Distribution, originally released the Documentary the film is based around, over 5 years ago. Check out the Trailer for that film…

Waititi stated, “I’ve just started production on my next film, NEXT GOAL WINS. We have such an amazing cast and crew behind this film, and I’m stoked to be partnering once again with the lovely people at Fox Searchlight Pictures.”

“Taika is an incredible talent and master at bringing honesty and humanity to the surface in any story. We are thrilled to be working with him again on such an extraordinary true story of perseverance in the face of defeat. He has brought together a terrific group of actors, craftspeople and sports players to bring this unique story to life,” said Greenbaum and Greenfield.

There is no set release date for Next Goal Wins, expect sometime 2020. Takia Waititi’s next film will be JoJo Rabbit which will be released in the UK on 1st January 2020.