Name: Captains of the World
Genre: Documentary
Released: 2023-12-30T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, Luka Modrić, Cristiano Ronaldo, Olivier Giroud

The camera lingers on Lionel Messi‘s face as he stands alone, staring out at the Lusail Stadium pitch, the weight of a nation’s dreams pressing down. This moment, captured in Captains of the World, isn’t just about football; it’s about the human cost of glory. The series, a collaboration between Netflix, Fulwell 73, and FIFA+, offers an intimate portrait of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, focusing on the captains and key players from all 32 teams.

Directed by Gabe Turner, Ben Turner, and Christian Cerami, Captains of the World is a follow-up to their earlier series, Captains, which documented the qualification process for the tournament. Here, we see the culmination of those efforts: the highs, the lows, and everything in between. The series features behind-the-scenes footage and exclusive interviews with captains, prominent players, coaches, and more—including Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Kylian Mbappé, Harry Kane, Gareth Bale, Luka Modrić, and Simon Kjær.

The series excels in its intimate portrayal of the emotional rollercoaster that is the World Cup. The behind-the-scenes footage is raw and unfiltered, from Ronaldo’s frustration after Portugal’s exit to Mbappé’s determination leading up to France’s final showdown. The exclusive interviews add depth, with captains like Kane and Kjær offering candid insights into the pressure they face. One of the standout moments is a quiet, human detail—a shared glance in the locker room, a solitary reflection before a match, or the raw emotion of victory and defeat.

The series also shines in its exploration of the cultural significance of the World Cup. It delves into the stories of players from less prominent teams, offering a glimpse into their journeys and the challenges they face. For example, the series highlights the struggles of African teams like Cameroon and Ghana, providing a nuanced look at the political and social issues that these athletes navigate.

However, the series falters when it tries to be all things to all viewers. With 32 teams and countless storylines, Captains of the World sometimes feels like it’s spreading itself too thin. The pacing is uneven, with some teams’ narratives rushed while others get more screen time. Additionally, the series occasionally succumbs to the temptation of sensationalism, particularly in its coverage of high-profile players like Messi and Ronaldo. While these moments are undeniably compelling, they sometimes overshadow the more subtle, human stories that make the series truly unique.

The performances—if we can call them that—are a mixed bag. The athletes are, of course, extraordinary on the pitch, but their interviews vary in impact. Messi’s quiet intensity is captivating, while Ronaldo’s bravado sometimes feels overplayed. The coaches, like Didier Deschamps and Lionel Scaloni, provide valuable context but are often relegated to the sidelines.

In terms of originality, Captains of the World offers a fresh perspective by focusing on the captains and their leadership roles. However, it doesn’t break new ground in the sports documentary genre. The structure is familiar, and the narrative arcs are predictable. That said, the series fits its genre well, offering a comprehensive look at one of the world’s most-watched sporting events.

The series is also notable for its production values. The cinematography is top-notch, with stunning shots of the stadiums and the surrounding landscapes. The sound design is equally impressive, capturing the roar of the crowds and the quiet moments of reflection. However, the editing sometimes feels rushed, particularly in the later episodes, where the pacing becomes uneven.

Captains of the World is a series that will appeal to football fans and casual viewers alike. For die-hard fans, it offers an unprecedented look at the inner workings of their favorite teams and players. For casual viewers, it provides a compelling narrative that transcends the sport, exploring themes of leadership, perseverance, and the human cost of glory.

The series also raises some interesting questions about the role of football in global culture. It highlights the ways in which the sport brings people together, transcending borders and languages. At the same time, it underscores the political and social issues that are often intertwined with the tournament, from the controversies surrounding Qatar’s hosting of the event to the struggles of players from less prominent teams.

In conclusion, Captains of the World is a compelling watch for football fans and casual viewers alike. It captures the drama, the tension, and the sheer scale of the World Cup in a way that feels both epic and intimate.