AFI Docs 2021: LFG
afi docs 2021For U.S. culture, the 2019 World Cup served as one of the defining moments of patriotism and spirit as the Women’s National Soccer Team went all the way to win the world cup for the 4th time. This was a defining moment for multiple reasons. Not only did it put an American team on top, but it was a moment of diversity and celebration of it in a time where these were hot topics in an ever-growing turbulent time for American politics. This was a young, queer, feminist and progressive group that openly had conflict with Donald Trump and stood firm in their beliefs with results no one could argue with. They forced their way onto a pedestal that no one could take from them. In the following months, however, a different story was found. The United States Soccer Federation was accused and sued for unfair and sexist treatment towards the team. This struggle is the focus of LFG, which is streaming as part of the 2021 AFI Docs film festival.
Even for those with absolutely no interest in soccer or this team, it is near impossible not to become engaged in the film's subject. The feature uses some of the most dynamic editing seen in any film this year so far. Filled to the brim with the same attitude and authenticity seen from the team themselves, LFG feels weirdly – yet never harmfully – fun and bright, considering the subject is in reality quite dark and frustrating. Jeff Consiglio really does a great job with the editing, and that is possibly the film's best asset overall.
It does help, however, that the film's content is overall quite shocking and engaging in its own right. Coming after the #MeToo movement and modern push for gender equality, to see the true depths of just how badly treated these women were is nothing short of shocking. These women were on every news station, bringing the federation a newfound sense of relevance and plenty of cash to the point where it feels they would be treated like superstars. To hear that some even had to have side jobs just to pay rent brings a tragic but needed reminder of just how far there is to go when it comes to the fight for equality and things simple like equal pay in the workplace.
The film also clearly benefits from just how personable its subject is. There is a reason this team captured the hearts of so many Americans and the film takes the time to get to know them and show the humanistic sides of them beyond just that of soccer players. Even in moments of seriousness, such as the team addressing the federation, their friendship and soul is felt to a degree that is hard not to find likable and inspiring. The direction given to the feature by directors Andrea Nix and Sean Fine is always controlled and focused, never letting the story and subject get too much control. With so much personality and so many different ways the film could turn into an absolute mess, this is yet another clear filmmaking accomplishment behind the feature that deserves recognition.
Relevant, fun and haunting, LFG is easily one of the most charismatic and important films of the year. It is so easy to engage with and enjoy that most audiences will have no trouble getting sucked into the film's narrative and hanging onto every reveal and development along the way. Being widely available by streaming on HBO Max, this is an easy recommendation.
