I went to the Screening of “The Beautiful Game” sponsored by Lance Hastings, the Director of CMTA.  It turns out that the members of this year’s class of Leadership Sacramento were there.  The Guild Theater in Oak Park is a great venue that seats about 100 people.  After the movie, Scott Syphax moderated a panel that included Lisa Wrightsman and Tiffany Fraser.  Lisa and Tiffiny played in the Homeless World Cub and are now leaders in the organization.   I wish I had seen this movie before the World Cup was played in Sacramento in 2023.

“The Beautiful Game” is not just a movie about Street Soccer and the Homeless World Cup. Variety Magazine’s March 21 article highlights several themes: resilience, teamwork, redemption, unity, and cultural diversity.

Resilience and perseverance. The film follows a group of homeless athletes who face significant challenges in their lives, such as displacement, addiction, and personal struggles. Despite these obstacles, they come together to compete in the Homeless World Cup, showcasing their determination and resilience in pursuing a second chance at life through the sport of soccer.

Another theme present in the film is teamwork (Connection.) The characters from the England team initially need help bonding and working together effectively. Through their shared experiences and challenges, they learn the value of teamwork and supporting one another on and off the field.

Additionally, the film underscores the transformative power of sports. Characters like Vinny, a talented yet troubled player, and Nathan, a recovering addict, undergo personal journeys of self-discovery and redemption throughout the film. Their stories are a testament to the human spirit as they confront their past mistakes and shortcomings, learning valuable lessons about forgiveness, acceptance, and the power of second chances.

The movie touches on cultural diversity and unity. The Homeless World Cup brings together players from nearly 50 countries, each with their own unique backgrounds and experiences. The characters in the England team interact with individuals from different cultural backgrounds, fostering understanding, empathy, and mutual respect.

On a local level, Rotary serves the less fortunate in our community.  For example, on September 28, we are putting in the Sacramento Century to raise money for the Sacramento Children’s Home Crisis Nursery.  If you can help out, please click on the link:  Donate 

At Rotary, a week before seeing “The Beautiful Game,” Jennifer Stolo from Robert Craig Films spoke about their latest movie production, “No Address.”  Filmed in Sacramento, the movie illuminates the plight of the homeless and how people fall into homelessness. It’s a powerful reminder that even those with full-time jobs can find themselves on the street.  The movie will be in theaters later this year.