Watch There's Always Next Season

There's Always Next Season is a heartwarming sports drama directed by acclaimed filmmaker Anders Johansen and released in 2018. Set against the backdrop of a small town in Norway, the film revolves around the lives of three young friends who strive to overcome their personal struggles and turn their dream of forming a football team into reality. Starring Stian Tapani Gundersen, Daniel Mikkelsen, and Roy Olsen, this poignant tale celebrates the power of friendship, determination, and the unyielding spirit of never giving up.

The story is centered around the character of Erik (played by Stian Tapani Gundersen), a talented but disillusioned football player who fell out of love with the game following a personal tragedy. Now working as a mechanic in his father's garage, Erik is caught in a monotonous routine and haunted by sorrow. However, his life takes an unexpected turn when he reconnects with his childhood friends, a misfit trio of characters who are equally longing for a change in their lives.

As Erik and his friends, Jon (played by Daniel Mikkelsen) and Lars (played by Roy Olsen), come together once again, they reminisce about their shared love for football and the dreams they once held dear. United by a common goal, the trio embarks on a journey to form a football team, hoping to find a sense of purpose and redemption through the beautiful game.

However, their path is not an easy one. The small town they live in has long forgotten its glory days on the football field, and their ambitions are met with skepticism and resistance from both the local community and their families. Undeterred, Erik, Jon, and Lars face the obstacles head-on, pouring their heart and soul into training, recruiting players, and securing sponsors.

As they gradually rebuild the team, news of their efforts spreads, capturing the attention and support of the town's residents. People begin to rally behind them, believing in their potential to restore the town's football legacy. The trio's unwavering determination and passion inspire not only the local community but viewers as well. There's Always Next Season beautifully captures the essence of teamwork, resilience, and the power of dreams.

Beyond the football field, the film delves into the personal struggles faced by the main characters. Erik must confront his past and find the strength to move forward, healing the emotional wounds that have haunted him for years. Jon, who comes from a troubled family, discovers a true sense of belonging within the team, finally finding the support and camaraderie he has always longed for. Lars, a charming but fickle character, must learn to prioritize his responsibilities and commitment to the team instead of being swayed by distractions.

The performances in There's Always Next Season are emotionally resonant, with Stian Tapani Gundersen, Daniel Mikkelsen, and Roy Olsen delivering nuanced portrayals of three friends driven by their shared passion and friendship. The film's beautifully captured football sequences and breathtaking cinematography transport viewers into the heart of each match, effectively conveying the emotional highs and lows experienced by the team.

Ultimately, There's Always Next Season is a heartening tale that explores the transformative power of following dreams, building connections, and finding purpose in the face of adversity. With its compelling story, outstanding performances, and themes of hope and perseverance, this film is a must-watch for sports enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates stories of triumph against all odds.

There's Always Next Season is a 2021 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 51 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 9.0.