Shooting for Socrates (2014)

In the throes of November 1985, Belfast's streets are a battleground of riotous chaos. Amidst this tumultuous uproar navigates nine-year-old Tommy, his innocent gaze focused solely on the football he dribbles through the anarchy. As politicians grapple with peace negotiations, young Tommy's world revolves around the imminent World Cup clash between Northern Ireland and Brazil. "Shooting for Socrates" unfolds against the backdrop of the 1986 World Cup, a vibrant tapestry of football fanaticism, political turmoil, and personal growth. It's a narrative that juxtaposes the stark contrasts between two nations: Northern Ireland, with its deep-seated sectarian divide, and Brazil, bursting with samba, carnival, and footballing prowess. This David vs. Goliath tale is not merely a contest on the football pitch; it's a story of human resilience, fortitude, and the unifying power of the beautiful game. For Brazil, the match is a stepping stone towards global domination, but for Northern Ireland, it's an epic battle that transcends the football field, embodying the hopes and dreams of a nation. At the helm of Northern Ireland's misfit football squadron is the eccentric coach Billy Bingham (played by John Hannah), tasked with molding a team capable of competing against Brazil's philosopher-captain Sócrates and his formidable side. As the day of the match aligns with Tommy's tenth birthday, a promise made by his dockworker-turned-philosopher father, Arthur, intertwines their narrative. Arthur's promise to take Tommy to the "top of the World" - the towering crane at Belfast Docks - is set against the mounting anticipation of the match, creating a dual crescendo of excitement and trepidation. The film weaves together the trials and triumphs of the Northern Irish team with Tommy's coming-of-age journey, threading personal narratives with the larger sociopolitical tapestry of both nations. In the sweltering Mexican heat, Bingham entrusts his team's fate to rookie, Davey Campbell, while back in Belfast, Arthur employs Tommy's football obsession to impart life lessons, inspired by Socrates' philosophical teachings. "Shooting for Socrates" is a poignant exploration of two nations, two teams, and a father and son's relationship, highlighting the forces that divide and unite us. It's a celebration of football's power to transcend borders, a testament to Northern Ireland's indomitable spirit, and a vivid illustration of a young boy's rite of passage. With a generous dose of laughter and passion, this film encapsulates the essence of the beautiful game, viewed through the lens of a historic and world-altering event.

Shooting for Socrates is a comedy movie featuring John Hannah.

Shooting for Socrates is currently streaming on Flix Premiere.