We Must Go

Produced by Copper Pot Pictures, We Must Go, is a sports documentary directed by Dave LaMattina & Chad N. Walker. Released in 2014, the movie features US football/soccer coach Bob Bradley, star player Mohamed Aboutreika, and goalkeeper Sherif Ekramy as lead cast members. The documentary chronicles Bradley's journey as he takes on the tough task of molding the Egyptian national team, ultimately seeking to qualify for the World Cup after nearly 30 years of absence.

Centered around the chaotic backdrop of the Egyptian Revolution and the turmoil it caused in the nation, this sports documentary offers an emotionally deep insight into how resilience and determination can help to overcome the harshest conditions. Running 100 minutes, the film transcends the regular sports-story narrative to deliver an account of courage, humanity, and triumph against adversity.

The central figure of the documentary, Bob Bradley, is provided crucial and exciting depth. It is not just about Bradley's mission to guide the "Pharaohs" to the 2014 FIFA World Cup; the film thoroughly explores his roles as a father, loyal leader, and an unlikely centerpiece during Egypt’s political tension. Notably, Bradley was the first American ever to coach a foreign national team with hopes of participating in the World Cup, making this venture even more compelling and unprecedented.

Integral to the narrative is Mohamed Aboutreika, arguably one of the greatest African footballers of all time. The movie provides unforgettable glimpses of Aboutreika's character and game, showcasing why this man is just as adored off the field as he is on it. We see not just a football player, but a figure who owns and uses his influence to advocate for his people, becoming a symbol of resistance and hope in the midst of turmoil.

Sherif Ekramy, another key player, is portrayed as an epitome of the team's spirit, mirroring their collective struggle and determination. His depiction echoes the sentiment prevalent throughout the team – a powerful desire to succeed against all odds, fueled by the expectations of millions of hopeful Egyptians.

As we experience the rollercoaster journey of the Egyptian soccer team, the political context is inextricably woven into the narrative. Past the locker room and the pitch, the movie successfully taps into the turbulent socio-politico climate of Egypt post 2011 and its symbolic co-relation with the symbolic rise of the national team.

The documentary also paints a picture of Egyptian people's passionate love for the game. The buzzing streets of Cairo, the expectant crowds on match days, and the people's emotional swings tied with the team’s ups and downs highlight how deeply they regard soccer not only as an entertaining sport but as a source of national pride and identity.

Directorial duo Dave LaMattina & Chad N. Walker have crafted an engrossing story replete with rich, intimate scenes wrapped around the premise of sports. The documentary presents a compelling focus on the team’s dream while employing appropriate subtexts to pull the viewer to feel the fervor, struggles, and determination of the Egyptian team.

At its core, We Must Go is a must-watch for its fascinating portrayal of transformational power in sports, offering a simultaneous exploration of the world of soccer and the human spirit's resilience. The documentary brings the audience face to face with defeat, hope, and triumph, underlining how the beautiful game of football becomes a beacon of hope for a nation during its darkest hours.

At the same time, however, the film does an excellent job portraying the tremendous pressure and the enormity of the task at hand for Bradley and his team throughout this process. With millions of hearts at stake, each decision, victory, or loss has a deep and lasting impact, making the journey filled with suspense and emotional intensity.

Whether a soccer fan or not, We Must Go draws viewers in with its poignant tale of perseverance, brotherhood, and hope against all odds. It effectively underlines the idea that sometimes sports is more than just a game; it can be a medium to mirror societal struggles and express the collective dreams of a nation.