Lange Flate Ballær (2006)

Review

The revival of football (Americans, read: Soccer) films in latter years - both from Europe (with films like Goal) and the States (Kicking and Screaming) – has arguably brought the sport to a wider and less likely audience. The same will probably be the effect of Norwegian film's contribution to the game: Bjørn Fast Nagell/Harald Zwart's comedy Lange Flate Ballær. The film takes the supporters' point of view as the Norwegian national team qualify for the World Cup in Germany and then progresses into the final rounds. Zwart's film is both ambitious and unambitious at the same time. The first through a not inconsiderable attempt at recreating the World Cup; the latter through the completely over-the-top writing by Pål Sparre-Enger. Because the biggest problem with Lange Flate Ballær is the shamelessly unrealistic and largely stupid script. Under different and very considerate circumstances, I could almost have bought into the romantic fantasy of Norway winning the World Cup, but the way it is presented here, with the Norwegian national coach, Åge Hareide, ensuring victory in the final by taking tips from the supporters, is ridicule at its best – or worst – depending on how you see it. Sure, this is a comedy, and Zwart gets some good laughs, such as with Jose Mourinho's cameo at the end and Ari Behn having some fun on behalf of his own celebrity persona, but mostly the film overhits and becomes too loud and overwhelming. "Less is more" is a trite but often appropriate line for a movie of this type, and Zwart should have taken notice of it here.