It was a solid week for new releases as we had a big blockbuster and some interesting streaming options. Below is my take on the new films I saw this week. You can keep up with everything I’m watching by following me on Letterboxd @knighthawk7734.

The Beautiful Game (Netflix)
Starring: Bill Nighy and Michael Ward
Synopsis: This new film is based on a true story. It’s about a unique soccer tournament that gives people a chance to step forward out of a difficult situation. The film, directed by Thea Sharrock, is about the Homeless Games, a tournament where countries bring together teams of players experiencing homelessness to compete. Specifically, we follow English coach Mal (Nighy) who is leading a team to this year’s tournament in Italy. He stumbles on Vinny (Ward), a talented player with a chip on his shoulder. Can these games be a way back for Vinny? Can it help Michael atone for ways he felt he fell short in the past? All those things are in play in this film. The movie goes at a somewhat decent pace but feels a bit long at times. The action is inspiring, and the performances are solid. This is a great idea for a film and a great celebration of a special tournament I’d never heard of before this film. In terms of a standalone film, it feels just OK.
Rating: Rated PG-13 for some language, a suggestive reference, brief partial nudity and drug references.

Steve! (Martin): A Documentary in Two Parts (Apple TV+)
Synopsis: I’ve long enjoyed Steve Martin as a performer, but this documentary really gives you more of a window into his life and career. Morgan Neville dives into the man and his work in a two-part documentary that spans more than three hours. The first half, Then, takes a look at Martin’s beginning, how he found his voice on stage and the doubts he harbored before taking off. It’s a look at his early life, his interaction with his family, and a lot of material of his early stand-up act. The second piece, Now, looks at his life in the present. Martin and his partnership with Martin Short, his own family, and how at peace he is with his career. It features interviews from friends and collaborators, including Jerry Seinfeld and Tina Fey, among others. It’s a great exploration of the man and a great celebration of his work. I was moved and entertained. While it feels a little long at times, it’s broken into two 95-minute chunks and can be watched as pieces. I enjoyed the look and the dive into his career. Neville has created several interesting and engrossing documentary features, and this is one that is worth seeking out on Apple TV+.
Rating: TV-MA

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.