Miss Ted Lasso? Watch This New Uplifting Sports Drama Already Available on Netflix

Why did everyone love Ted Lasso so much? This series shows how mutual respect, caring and support for one another can lead to success not only in sports, but in life in general.

All three seasons of the show have masterfully balanced humor with serious topics, and the main character has become a true example of the positivity and kindness that is so necessary in our time.

But what if you've already seen Ted Lasso (and maybe more than once, and we feel you) and want something just as warm and fuzzy? On March 29, a full-length perfect replacement called The Beautiful Game, was released on Netflix.

What is The Beautiful Game About?

Legendary football scout Mal Bradley has retired and now helps struggling athletes realize their potential. Every year, an English gentleman puts together a team to compete in the Homeless World Cup.

For the upcoming tournament in Rome, he invites a talented young player, Vinny, who has lost everything and ended up on the streets. Thanks to the new member’s talents, the team has a chance to win.

The Beautiful Game is Based on a Real Tournament

The Homeless World Cup is a real sporting event that has been taking place since 2003. For each player, it is a unique opportunity to fulfill a dream and start a new life.

Although the events depicted in the movie are fictional, the story is inspired by the stories of real participants in past competitions. Some athletes have agreed to act as extras, and their appearance on screen adds sincerity and realism to the story.

The life-affirming sports drama was directed by Thea Sharrock (Me Before You) and executive produced by Colin Farrell, who previously worked on a documentary about the championship.

The Beautiful Game Focuses on Important Social Problems

Picturesque vistas of summer Italy contrast with the heavy dramas of the characters – each with a heartbreaking story behind them. The creators of the film draw attention to the problems of the homeless and speak of the broken destinies of those who, for various reasons, find themselves on the margins of life.

The initiators of the championship extend a warm welcome to all athletes and help each participant find hope for inspiring change. The Beautiful Game reflects this social initiative and shows that sport can change the world for the better.

Though the tragic stories of athletes are the main focus of the story, soccer itself is not kept in the background – short matches are played dynamically and spectacularly. With a balance of sports and drama, the movie will appeal to football fans as well as those who are not interested in the sport.

The Beautiful Game is a Blend of The Best in Sports Drama

The Beautiful Game is an inspiring and touching story of unfulfilled dreams and second chances. The movie has a lot of soul, but it is not overloaded with sentimentality.

At times the script relies on the familiar tropes of a formulaic sports drama and manipulates the viewer's emotions, but ultimately it is difficult not to be moved by the tragedies of the characters. The result is something between Ted Lasso and Next Goal Wins.