Although entirely niche in terms of subject matter, there is an overarching optimism and warmness to ”Sunday League” which allows it to be more widely accessible. Already a low-key hit on the film festival circuit, this breezy comedy is bound to pick up more plaudits as it heads into the international arenas.
“Sunday League” is screening at Asian Pop-up Cinema
The plot revolves around Jun-il (Lee Seong-uk), a retired footballer who now slobbishly coaches children at a football center. Weighed down by his part-time role, he becomes even more dismayed when made to transition into the unenviable job of training three clumsy adults in the hopes of them becoming a competent futsal squad. Of course, it is no easy task, but thanks to Jun-il's drive at scoring a permanent role at the centre, in addition to his genuine growth as a coach (and as a person), progress does swiftly start to show.
Where ”Sunday League” thrives most is in its witty, football-centric humour, and dedication to making the dysfunctional group of players as interesting as possible. Whether it is jibes about not knowing the European style of play, or strained attempts to get middle-aged men to understand formations through playing FIFA, it all works well in the niche environment, and will have sports fans seamlessly invested. Of course, such a dedication to a potential audience runs the risk of ostracising others, but the smartly unravelled story of family troubles and self-development is bound to win those on the fence over.
In that regard, Lee Seong-uk is excellent as Jun-il, depicting a slobbish future divorcee-turned enthusiastic coach and father with a grounded sense of self. There is nothing hyperbolic about the performance, which helps when allowing the audience to connect with a character who is both sympathetic and somewhat frustrating. Similarly, a lot of the supporting cast anchor the story well, bringing their own quirks to the table without detracting from the plot.
Continuing, the cinematography is rather sharp, with the football pitch in the center having an air of freedom to it, and the clustered apartment feeling cramped, sluggish and a surefire sign of failure.
All in all, ”Sunday League” is a fast-paced, well written film. Yi Sung-il might not add any frills to the feature, but as is learnt from the movie, sometimes it is best to avoid anything fancy, and nail the basics instead.
