Anelka: Misunderstood

Anelka: Misunderstood is a 2020 sports documentary that unravels the life and career of the legendary but highly controversial French football player, Nicolas Anelka. In this 94-minute documentary, director Frank Nataf goes against the grain and presents a comprehensive, intriguing exploration of Anelka's journey both on and off the field. Featuring candid interviews and footage, the film includes engaging commentary from Roman Abramovich, Fabrice Abriel, and Samir Amireche.

Nicolas Anelka, a household name in the realm of international football, is known for his exceptional skills, esteemed career trajectory, yet often baffling choices that have shadowed his life and career with controversies. The documentary offers a unique, insider’s glimpse into the complex personality and idiosyncratic career of this mercurial football player, revealing details that were previously under the radar.

The film begins from Anelka's humble beginnings growing up in the Trappes commune in the outskirts of Paris. The narrative symbolism of the streets from where Anelka hailed showcases how his environment played a crucial role in molding him into the player and man he became. Using dramatic archival footage, the film charts Anelka's rapid rise in professional football, his club hopping, his contentious moments, and the world infamous controversies.

A significant portion of the world knew Anelka through the lens of the media, his perceived arrogance, and the infamous "quenelle" gesture incident. Still, Nataf keenly details Anelka's personal and professional growth, allowing the audience to delve deeper under the surface-level understanding of the man. Fabrice Abriel and Samir Amireche lend credibility to the narrative with their keen insights into Anelka's personality and journey.

Roman Abramovich, the Russian businessman, politician, and owner of Chelsea FootballClub, makes his appearance in the documentary, shedding light on the significance of Anelka's arrival at the club. He provides invaluable insight into Anelka’s time at Chelsea, allowing the audiences a fresh perspective on the impact Anelka had on the team and his contribution to the sport during his time there.

Through interviews with Anelka himself, his family, coaches, journalists, and fellow players, the film paints a complex picture about the footballer, narrating his side of the story, truly expressing why he is 'Misunderstood.' The narrative insists on Anelka's commitment to his values and principles, despite the criticism and opposition he faces. Touching upon poignant aspects of his personal life, including his faith and parenthood, the film brings out Anelka’s lesser-observed humane aspects.

The documentary does not shy away from tackling controversies and provides an unfiltered look at many hot-button issues. It delves into the 2010 World Cup incident when Anelka was sent home for allegedly insulting his coach, an event that triggered further crisis within the French national team. The film also addresses the 'quenelle' controversy, an event that stoked global outrage and arguably marked the decline of Anelka's football career.

Anelka: Misunderstood grapples with the clash between the personal and the public, unpacking the intense media scrutiny that shadowed Anelka and eventually played a role in shaping his public persona. The film navigates his tumultuous relationship with the media, which often led to misunderstandings about his actions or motives. On that note, the title itself 'Misunderstood,' might resonate as a statement from Anelka towards his critics.

The cinematography and flow of the documentary are immaculate, striking a good balance between the portrayal of Anelka's personal emotions and an objective view of his football career. For football fanatics, the film is a walk down memory lane, recounting some of the gems from the world of football, animated replays of some of Anelka’s most stunning goals, and dynamic actions on the field.

Regardless of whether one agrees with Anelka's perspective or not, Anelka: Misunderstood serves as an engaging exploration of a sports figure who has made significant cultural impact beyond football. It encourages viewers to reassess their own understanding and perspective of this icon. Nataf creates a mosaic of impressions about Anelka, letting the audience decide whether he is truly misunderstood or justly criticized. From the perspective of a sports documentary, it stands out as compelling, informative, and intimate, making it a must-watch.