Golden Shoes (2015) - full transcript
In a time when our nation is in need for inspiration, what will it take to pull us together and give us hope? Eight year old Christian Larou (Played by Christian Koza) is about to face the biggest challenge of his life. The hopeful youth is a dreamer, ever since he was a young boy he has dreamed of becoming a great soccer player the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo. Unlike other young boys, Christian believes in his heart and soul, that he can be the best soccer player in the USA and play for the National Youth team. But first, he must overcome the impossible. The Golden Shoes soccer movie is inspired by kids who through their love for sports, find a way to deal with bullying and intolerance. Christian's character is bullied by both children and adults and his friendship with Julian the goalie (Played by Aedin Mincks of Disney's Ant Farm) helps Christian get through these trying times. Could Christian's journey to the top of the soccer world make him the new Cristiano Ronaldo? Will Christian end up finding his way and inspire an entire nation in a time of need? The Golden Shoes soccer movie is the likes of Rudy meets Bend It Like Beckham. It is full of emotion and twists, and will get the audience all rooting for the child star who may just inspire us all. The Golden Shoes soccer movie will be released in 2013 and features an all-star cast including Eric Roberts, John Rhys-Davies, David DeLuise, Vivica A. Fox, Dina Meyer, Christian Koza, Joshua Morrow, Montel Williams, and Aedin Mincks. Don't miss this amazing film and find out if Christian Larou's dream of becoming the new Cristiano Ronaldo comes true!
[ crowd cheering ]
ANNOUNCER:
The ball is behind him.
He bobbles it,
and still controls it
and scores.
What a remarkable goal
for Cristiano Ronaldo,
one of the world's best. So...
who are we rooting for?
The man is awesome, Mom,
but Portugal is the best.
I'll do anything
to play like him, Mom.
Well, you know,
you got to learn to walk
before you can jump.
ANNOUNCER:
...still controls it
and scores.
You got to be real good
if you want to be on
a national team.
You got to work real hard.
And...
you got to prove yourself
to the coach so he gives you
more play time.
[ sighs ]
I don't want to be
a ball boy anymore, Mom.
I want to play
for the national team.
Yeah?Mm-hmm.
Is that what
you really want?Mm-hmm.
You feel it here?
I feel it here.
Well, you can be
anything you want to be.
We believe in you.
Ah, come here.
I love you too, peanut.
Okay.
Finish your sandwich.
BOY: Goal!
Whoo!
Who scored?
This guy Cristiano Ronaldo
is the best player in the world.
Oh, my gosh,
you should see it.
Well, they're gonna show
the instant replay right now--
No, no, no, no.
I got this.
Again?
Oh, wow.
Mom, see that?
Man, that's how I'd want
to score in a finals game.
Wasn't that just amazing?
Uh, yes.
Wow!Amazing.
I hope I don't
get in trouble.
You said
you believed in me.
[ chuckles ]
Go get your ball.
BOY:
A new ball.
[ both chuckle ]
Finders keepers,
losers weepers.
All right, guys,
go get ready.
[ boys laugh ] We got a new ball.
Hi, Mr. Granger.
Well, if it isn't
Chris the wannabe.
Can I have
my ball back, please?
What ball is that?
So, where's your dad?
On some secret mission?
Hi, Kathleen.
Hey, Frank.
Nice day, huh?Yeah, it's very.
Have you watered
your tulips today?
Well, my work schedule's
been interfering with
my gardening.
How's George?
You know what
this country needs
is heroes at home, too.
To lift up our spirits,
to stand by those who have
to stay home alone, right?
Yeah, well,
this is my hero right here.
FRANK: Right.
Did you find it, hmm?
What'd you lose?
Has Chris been naughty again?
Well, you know,
boys will be boys.
Tell me about it.
Ed and Donald do
the same thing.
They practice in the house
and break things.
But they made
the team of course.
Northern Stars.
And, as you know,
not an easy team to make.
Yes, I do know.
Your boys are very good.
Ah, the best.
Look, Kathleen,
if you need a man's man around,
you know, to keep him in line
and to fix things around
the house,
do not hesitate, call me.
Okay.
Oh, uh, Frank?
Yes, Kathleen?
Could you take Christian
to practice today?
I've got to be
at work again.
I would love to.
That'd be great.
Thank you.
I don't want
to be in his car.
And I don't like
when he calls me Chris.
I think you're being
a little hard on him.
Hi, this is Kathleen Larou.
Yes, I do.
The window guy's
going to be be annoyed.
He's never annoyed, honey.
Ye--
[ whispers ]
He's annoyed.
Told you.
Can you come by
later this afternoon?
Great. All right,
we'll see you then.
Thanks.
All right.
Hey.
Peanut?
I miss Dad.
Oh, me, too, honey.
When can he
watch me play?
Soon, honey.
Soon.
Portugal won because
of Cristiano Ronaldo.
Two goals!
And I could have
scored more,
just like how I
beat you at Xbox.
What do you think, Chris?
You think he's that good?
Yeah, go on.
[ whispers ]
Ball boy.
He uses both feet.
That's why he's good.
Plays on both wings, too.
Doesn't run the wrong way.
He's never missed
a penalty kick.
He can curve the ball
from a dead position into
both directions.
Got a long way to go before
you're that good, huh, kid?
Mom said I can
be anything if I want to.
Mama's boy.
[ laughs ]
Mama's boy.
[ boys laughing ]
FRANK: Okay, kids,
let's go play soccer.
Hurry up, let's go.
MAN: Come on, guys.
Hustle up! You're late!
Here's your ball,
ball boy.
Dominic!
Hey!
Tight on the cones, guys.
Control!
Nice.
Good, good! Keep up the pace!
Keep it up!
[ grunts ]
You got to be joking!
Julian, this is not
a nap session.
Do you mind joining us? Bring it on.
Call that a shot?
[ laughs ]
DOMINIC:
Good! Bring it out!
For our next game,
I'm looking to change up
our strategy.
I just wish we could--
Yeah, make sure
you're playing my sons
then, okay?
If we want to compete
in the state championships,
I have to change up
the strategy, Frank.
Yeah?
Something is missing.
[ blows whistle ]
Josh, pass it right away!
Well, Coach, maybe
the passing is what's
missing.
Ah, I need a poacher.A what?
A striker with instincts.
Mm-hmm.
Hmm.
Chris, go get the balls,
will you?
Donald, sit this one out.
I'm gonna let Christian
have a go.
Well, Chris has hardly
been making it to practice,
Coach.
His father's in the military.
He's got a working mom.
I want to see
if I can't place him
in the team.
All right.And it's my decision.
It is your decision.Hey, Christian.
Take Donald's place
and impress me.
Heads up, Frank.
All right, here we go! BOY: Yeah, come on, Christian.
Show 'em what what you got. DOMINIC: Form a triangle!
Triangle!
Tri-- Josh!
That Josh
is a lazy kid.
[ grunting ]
DOMINIC:
Protect your goal!
[ groans ]
All right, come on.
Time for bed.
Lay down.
You're awfully quiet today.
Is everything all right?
Huh?
Practice a bore?
Did you miss
a chance to play?
I played. You played?
That's wonderful.
Why didn't you tell me?
But I didn't score.
Oh, honey.
That's okay.
Dad always says, "Never quit
and always try your best."
"And a different day
will bring its own blessing."
That's right.
Mom?
Yes.
Why do people hate?
People who hate just haven't
gotten rid of all the bad
inside of them.
Hey, what does Dad say
when, uh-- when things
aren't right?
"Never give up,
for it brings success,
and that's the best revenge."
That's right.
Success
is the best revenge.
I miss Dad.
Oh, honey.
Me, too.
Me, too.
[ gunfire ]
Stay heavy on the flank.
Rogers!I got you.
Keep it down.How can we keep it down?
Our boys have no idea
where we're at.
Make sure we get that
transmission working again.
SOLDIER: Yes, sir.
I am working on that.
James, get those
communications up!
I got-- I got to make a decision
and you can't argue with me.
Now listen up!
We're surrounded
and our ammo's low.
I can't slow you down
and risk your lives.
Sir, if I could
say something--
there's no way in hell
we're leaving you behind,
no way.
If you don't do what I say,
you'll never get out of here.
James, get those
communications up!
Incoming!
All right,
just let me lumber up.
[ grunts ]
That hurt. Okay.
Almost ready.
Hold your horses.
I don't have all day!I'm almost done.
Just let me
stretch my hips.
Okay.
Here we go.
And...
[ farts ]
[ groans ]
Okay.
Oh, oh, okay.
All right.
CHRISTIAN:
Are you serious?
Mmm.You're killing me.
I can't help it.
Chocolate is my weakness.
Kind of like...
kids who watch
the Teletubbies.
Does your mom know?
You're not gonna tell,
are you?
If I score, I get a bar.
You sound like my mom.Let me see them.
[ laughs ]
[ sighs ]
Bellisima!
You're killing me!You said that already.
Okay.
Let's get it on.
Okay.
See why they call me
the goalie.
Pretty intense and awesome.
All the ladies love it.
If the ladies count as my mom,
but still, they love it.
[ sighs ]All right! I'm ready.
One bar for me.
How do you expect
to fly for the ball
when you eat sweets
like you drink water?
Can you just hit
the ball, please?
[ dog barking ]
Not again!
Um...
Yeah, I'm outta here
with my bars.
Oh, it's you again, is it?
The kid that just loves
to play football!
I'm sorry, sir.
Well, you should be sorry!
Who gives you the right
to disturb my afternoon
nap, eh?
Oh, no,
just look at this mess.
The lilacs, the tulips.
Oh, not the pansies.
And you just stand there
as if everything's all right!
I--
Oh, now he's got
a sorry face on!
I-- Well, that's
just wonderful!
Look, I love my plants!
I like watering them!
I like
taking care of them!
Well, at least
the fuchsia has survived.
[ sighs ]
Look, I beg you, please,
keep away from my plants!
Especially the pansies.
You get it?
I'll make sure I never
mess with your pansies
and your tulips,
and your...
Fuchsia! Fuchsia!
Sure. Them, too.
Good-bye.
Come on, Stars,
pull yourselves!
Fight back!
See, you've got
to get back.Josh! Get back!
Keep it moving!
Defense!
Pull yourselves together!
Pull yourselves!
All the way in!
All the way! Mark!
Get that ball.
Get that ball!
Agh! [ cheering ]
Lucky!
Ah, they'll be fine.
Are you kidding me?
Josh, get back!
Keep it ready.
Come on, come on,
come on, come on.
[ grunts ] [ whistle blows ]
Hey!
[ shouts in native language ]
He tripped my son.
Kick him out.
[ blows whistle ]
DOMINIC:
All right, guys,
bring it in!
Grab some bench.
Listen up, guys.
What happened
to the triangle passing?
Heads up, guys.
Short passes,
look for the breaks,
and get into the forwards.
And then we can score.
We could tie this.
And if we tie,
we have a chance
to be in the top two.
You can either
be my champions
or you can be forgotten.
What's it gonna be?
What'll it be?
Champions!There we go!
Christian's got it.
Who else?
I do.I love it!
I'm hungry.
[ sighs ]
What are we?
ALL:
Champions!
I'm sorry,
I couldn't hear you guys.
What are we?Champions!
Yes!
Get out there
and play some ball!
But I'm still hungry.Oh, please.
I'll get you a snack later.
[ cheering ]
[ blows whistle ]
Hustle!
[ whistle blows ] [ cheering ]
DOMINIC:
Fight back!
BOTH: Penalty![ crowd groans ]
[ whistle blows ] DOMINIC: Good call!
Okay, Steve,
you take this!
[ blows whistle ]
[ whistle blows ]
[ crowd cheers ]Yeah!
That's what
I'm talking about!
BOY: Yeah! That's what
he's talking about!
DOMINIC:
Come on, come on!
[ groans ]
I'm gonna be frank, Frank.
Christian is one of our
forwards.
And he's gonna
get play time.
What is your beef
with him, anyway?
I just want to win,
like you.
It's a risk if
you put him in,
that's all.
And I'm the coach.Yes, you are the coach.
Hey, Christian.
Tell me why you think
I should put you in.
I want to show my dad
there's a reason
to come home.
All right, you got
three minutes. Donald!
That's my boy, Christian.
Good game, Donald.
Man.That was close.
It's all right, guys!
Bring it back!
Short passes!
Good effort!
[ crowd groans ] Agh!
Yeah! That's what
I'm talking about!
[ whistle blows ]
Yes!Great!
Yes! Good job, guys.
Fantastic.
We're still in the race.
You did well.Yeah.
And I only had
two bars last night.
[ belches ]
See ya.
Hey, that was great shot.
You were just unlucky.
You played like a champ.
I agree.
Hey, Kathleen,
how you doing?
I'm good, thanks.
You ready?
FRANK:
Hey, should I
get take-out?
He gives me the creeps.
Hey, Dominic.
That's my neighbor.
Army wife.
Those Army wives, man.
Lonely, end in divorce.
It's that
distance thing, you know?
They just can't handle it.
So-- so I'm good to her.
I'll see you
at practice, Frank.
Yeah, Dominic.
See you there.
Mom?
Yeah, honey.
[ sniffles ]
It was sweet,
you watching the game.
Aw, honey.
I am going to make sure
I am at every one of them.
I promise.
You're a cool chick.
[ chuckles ]
Well, thank you.
You know,
your dad used
to say that to me.
Can I sleep next to you?
I wouldn't have it
any other way.
[ distant gunfire ]
Release the Spiders
and Dragonflies.
Yes, sir.
James, we're gonna make it.
I'm down
to one magazine.
We haven't eaten
in days, and I'm--
Soldier, you do your job
and I will get you home.
I promise you that.Yeah.
Like him?
[ explosion ]
Release the Spiders
and Dragonflies!
[ explosion ]
[ panting ]
[ groaning ]
I'll pick you up later?
Have a good day.
Bye, Mom.
[ music playing on radio ]
[ cell phone rings ]
Hello. Hello.
MAN: Kathleen Larou? Yes.
This is Sergeant William Scott from the US Army.
We tried
to reach you at home. Yes, yes, yes.
Uh, I haven't heard
from him in months.
[ echoing ]
I'm afraid he's MIA.
[ tires screech ][ Kathleen screams ]
Your parents left us
a contact person
just in case we couldn't
get a hold of them.
Speaking of the devil.
Where's Mom?
[ siren wailing ]
Hold my hand, young man.
Sir, you can wait there.
Now, you listen.
You be strong
for her, okay?
Mom?
Oh.
Hi, peanut.
Mommy's not
gonna be able to...
come and watch
you play for a while.
Okay?
I'm sorry.
Come here.
Shh.
Everything's gonna be okay.
I'm gonna send
an angel to watch you.
Okay?
Shh.
Why don't you
get some rest?
Thank you.
Don't forget to say
your prayers, honey.
Ah-ah.
Anybody for chicken salad?
She's gonna need time.
Lots.
Grandparents are deceased.
He has no aunts.
The only uncle
has been living
in Japan for 15 years.
Right.
You are on the parents'
list of contacts.
Catch my drift?
Drift.
What drift?
Christian is gonna be in your
care until things get better.
I'll take you to get
a new pair of shoes...
and we'll get your things
from your house tomorrow.
I want Mom.
I know you do.
I know you do.
Well...
let's go to bed, huh?
Hand me your shoes.
Here we go.
There we go.
I love
this old mattress.
If you get
scared or anything,
just call "Frank!"
I'll come running, okay?
Wow.
[ door closes ]
[ music playing ]
[ laughs ]
This is fun.
This soccer ball
is huge.
Wow.
Look at all these boots.
Can I help you, sir?Hey, how's it going?
Good. How you doing?Can I speak to you
for a second?
Sure.
I'm looking for something
on sale or even free.
Uh, these are all
the brands we have, sir.
Anything you guys
want to get rid of.
Think overstock.
Think cheap.
Think giveaway.
Could you let go
of my shirt, please?
Excuse me. Sorry.Thanks.
Um...
uh, isn't he your son?
No, no,
he is not my child.
[ chuckles ]
I may have
just the right thing
for your not child.
Cool.Hey, it's your turn.
I got it. I got it.
You know, this dirty,
worthless pair
that you clearly
stated you wanted
came in by mistake.
Somebody at the factory
must have switched them.
Let's give it a try.
I didn't say anything
about dirty or worthless.
Just affordable.
[ chuckles ]
Let's give them a try.
There you go.
Seriously?
I know they're
a little odd-looking,
but just give them a try.
Thank you
for giving them to me, sir.
I wish I had a better pair
for you, kid, I really do,
but you're welcome, okay?
[ music playing ]
♪ Look at our colors going
♪ Look at our faces knowing
♪ We got the moves,
you can't keep up
with our pace ♪
♪ Grab a hold
of our song... ♪♪
Pass it. Pass it.
Pass the ball!
Darn.
♪ We're undeniable
♪ We are undeniable...
Quick one-two, guys!
Quick!
Hey, nice shoes, kid.
I heard about
what happened to your mom.
And I want you to know
that I'm here for you, okay?
All right?
That doesn't mean
you get a free pass.
You still have
to prove to me
and to yourself
that you can do it.
Now, get out there
and show everyone what
Christian Larou is made of.
All right? Ed!
Hey, look, pal,
I sponsored this team
the past three years.
And I'm gonna
pay you back, Frank.Well, I guess.
You keep playing him,
I want my money back.
Well, I guess I'll have
to pay you back then.
Now to Christian!
[ grunts ]
Sweet mama! That's what
I'm talking about!
[ laughs ]
That just happened!
♪ We are undeniable
♪ We're undeniable
♪ We're undeniable... ♪
You all right there, Frank?Oh, yeah, what a shock.
That was a shock.
[ blows whistle ]
All right, guys,
bring it in!
I heard about your mom.
Don't worry,
she'll be okay.
FRANK: Don't be late, kid. Okay, Mr. Granger!
Huh?
Really.
Charlie,
we are under attack.
Wow.
He's tricking us!
Stay, Charlie, stay.
Here it comes!
Be brave!
Oh! [ Charlie barking ]
Wow.
You okay, sir?[ groans ]
What the devil
is going on?
Practicing.
How are your...
Fuchsias?
They are, uh...
still standing
when last I saw them.
And your...Tulips?
They've seen better days.
Now listen.
We have an issue,
don't we?
About noise.
I'm trying
to make the team.
My dad isn't
here to help me.
So I practice alone.
Well, that's
not my problem.
Besides, I hate soccer.
You hate soccer?
Yes, it always makes
me feel miserable.
You have a problem.
Yes, as a matter of fact,
I do have a problem with it.
And it's my business.
[ sighs ]
Now look,
though I hate to say this,
your daddy is indeed right.
In order to get better,
you must practice.
I can't believe those words
came out of my mouth.
I will practice,
but what about the noise?
Oh, that?
Well--
well, we'll just
have to make...
noise less noisy,
if you...
You can wear earplugs.
Yes, well, we'll--
FRANK: Hey, Chris,
get back in the house.
NARRATOR: With our soldiers
in the battlefield today,
tanks, cannons, artillery...
[ nurse hums ]
Oh, those wars
are taking a toll on us.
Enough already.
Let's get you
a little bite to eat.
How you feeling?
I'm a mess.
[ chuckles ]
You were lucky.
Very lucky.
Let's try this.
Nice to meet you,
Nurse White.
My name is Mary.
Mary White.
And it's a pleasure
meeting you, too,
Kathleen Larou.
He's gonna need
that smile, you know.
That little angel of yours.
Know why?
Why?
'Cause the strength
of a mother
is the only way to lift
the spirit of a child.
You remember that.
Kathleen Larou.
DOMINIC:
Steve, to Mark!
Come on![ groans ]
[ crowd cheers ]
DOMINIC: Come on, guys! [ blows whistle ]
BOY: Hit him, Willie. BOY #2: Hit him!
DOMINIC: Attack the ball!
[ groans ]
DOMINIC: Get it out of there!
Julian, don't
just stand there!
[ cheering ]
What's the use?
Go, Willie, go!
Come on!
You should know better!
It's only
the first half, too.
Boy, Jackson's gonna take
this one all the way, pal.
Thanks for sharing, Frank.
Just saying.
That's the way it goes, man.
Julian!
[ groans ]
I really should quit.
[ blows whistle ]
All right, guys,
bring it in!
Sometime today,
Julian, come on.
You can rest on the bench.
We're not scoring
on the breaks, guys.
If we manage to beat them,
we'll be on top of the league.
We could play in the finals
of this tournament.
Which means we'll have
a shot at competing
in the Regional
State Championship games.
Christian, I'm putting you
in for a full half.
What?!
What?
Donald, put
on your sweat suit.Dominic, come here, buddy.
You're not
being fair to Chris.
Way too much pressure
on that kid, pal.
Look, he needs to get
his mind off his family,
if not just
for half an hour.
Dominic,
you have 30 days
for my money.
Then I'm taking
legal action.
Well, there you go, Frank.
That's the spirit.
Thank you so much.
All right, Stars!
Let's get out there!
Show them no mercy!
Crush them! Come on!ALL: Yeah!
Here we go, Julian!
Here we go!
How's it like living
with an angry person?
It's a downer.
I think angry person
became angrier
when his wife died.
And now you live with him.Yeah.
Ain't life just great?
[ chuckles ]
Come on.
Christian!
Yes!
[ cheering ]
[ blows whistle ]
[ laughs ]Whoa-ho! Yeah!
[ children cheer ] Yes!
Not bad.
[ laughs ]
Good for you, buddy.
DOMINIC:
A little more
sportsmanlike!
[ cheering ]
Yeah!
[ cheering ]
Oh! What was that?![ blows whistle ]
All right, Christian,
you take it.
[ cheering ]
That was... amazing!
We're in.
We are so in!
[ laughs ]
Whoo!
[ children cheering ]
Think I found my striker.
It's okay, Dad,
we still won.Yeah.
What's the golden
kid's name?
Christian Larou.
And, uh, I'm the coach.
Dominic Klein.
Uh, no, K.
E-I-N.
All right.
Hey, you were amazing.
Hey, look at me.
Promise me not to down
those bars before a game.
It's-- it's hard.You have a problem.
Keep this up
and you're on the road to CA.
California?
Chocolate Anonymous.
I'm so weak, man!
I feel better.
[ dialing ]
WOMAN:
Downtown Hospital.
CHRISTIAN: Kathleen Larou,
please. I'm her son.
Ordering a pizza
with mushrooms?
I don't like mushrooms.
Go do the dishes.
What are you doing?
I was gonna clean your shoes,
but they look pretty clean.
Go to sleep.
Ed, Donald,
you guys better be in bed.
REPORTER ON TV:
With the death toll
of our soldiers rising,
both sides are in hot debate
as to when our boys will finally be coming home...
Here you go.
Hot off the press
like you like it.
REPORTER ON TV:
It's affecting
our nation's morale,
the effects of which
are not known as of yet.
With all the nation's problems
from the escalating wars,
health care...
Hey.Yeah?
Get
the news crew together.
...and how fast
can it happen?
And now to sports,
England's Youth Soccer Team
is making headlines
and making a splash
by beating Italy 2 to 0,
securing a spot in
the Youth World Cup finals.
You'll remember, of course,
England won last year,
but the big question is
what about the US?
Our national team has yet
to make it to the finals
and they're struggling once
again, and chances are grim
after being beaten
by Brazil 1 to 0.
Now, analysts are saying
we lack the stars
to carry us into
a championship
or even reach
the competition.
[ dialing ]
Hello, this is Dominic Klein
from the Michigan Youth League.
Is Mitch McClaine around?
Thanks.
Hey, Mitch, it's Dominic.
How are you?
[ laughs ]
Yeah!
We just might do that.
Look, I know you're busy,
but I have to speak to you
about this kid I have.
He's-- he's got the magic
that I think you should see.
It's just--
look, I know your time
is tight as the national
team scout, but you--
Yeah, I really do.
Okay, great,
I'll keep you posted.
Thank you.
Thank you so much.
How are those burgers?
Yeah?
Here you go.
Thank you so much.
What, burger
not good enough?
Ed and Donald like them.
Right, guys?
Yum.
For sure.
I guess Chris thinks
he's a steak man.
Burgers
aren't good enough.
I want to see Mom.
I miss my wife, too,
but I'll never see her again.
So toughen up, kid.
You'll see your mom in time.
Count yourself lucky
I took you in.
Eat your burger.
MAN on TV: Rest assured, this issue is being addressed.
The Secretary of State, the Vice-President, and myself
have had numerous discussions,
and we are just about
to propose such a plan.
Look, the men and women
who serve our country
are our beacon.
Their safety has always
been our concern.
Mr. President, recent polls
have shown that our morale
in our nation
is at an all-time low.
What is your administration
doing to address this?
Why you always
glued to that stuff?
My husband...
George...
[ clears throat ]
he's MIA.
Missing in action.
Hasn't called--Hey, I'm sorry.
I didn't know.
It's okay.
Look, um...
I know this is none
of my business, but...
a friend of yours called
when you were asleep
yesterday
and left a message.
Is everything okay?
You should seriously
read this.
Like, seriously.
Go on.
Open it up.
[ crying ]
That's my boy.
[ laughs ]
That's my baby.
That's right.
You gonna cry? Yeah.
Go on, get it out.
I'm here for you.
Oh, look at him.
Look at him.
I got to talk to him.
Let me get the phone for you.
I'll get the phone for you.
Okay. Thank you.There you go.
Yeah, call
your baby, girl.
[ phone ringing ]
Come on, Julian. Here we go.
[ blows whistle ]
Come on, Julian.
[ blows whistle ]
There you go.
All right, boys.
This is it, right?
Now, we are playing
the league leaders
and they're good.
But you guys are better.
You're my knights.
We win this
and we win the league.
And we can compete
in the Regional Championships.
Now, go out there
and have fun,
but give me nothing
but your best.
Are you my knights?Yes, we are.
I'm sorry. I'm sorry,
I couldn't hear that.
Yes, we are!All right!
Now get it out there
and earn your knighthood!
Come on![ children shout ]
WADL, reporting live.
What are they doing here?Filming.
Defense! Defense!
Get it out of there!
[ applause ]
That's all right!
Just unlucky!
[ blows whistle ]
DOMINIC: All right, guys,
huddle up! Here we go!
I don't even
know where to start.
You guys are playing
right into their strategy.
Now, you got
to break possessions.
You got to--
you got to get in there
and look for Christian
on the breaks.
Christian, you got to find
the window and run for it!
Okay.
Now, Donald,
you're going in for Ed.
[ farts ]
[ children groaning, coughing ]
I didn't do it.
I didn't do it.
Oh, my gosh.
Ah, that felt good.
I could taste that one.
[ groans ]
Are you okay?I'm not sure.
Okay.
[ blows whistle ]
[ crowd exclaims ]
[ exhales ]
[ crowd gasps ]
Still the worrywart?
Oh, Mitch!
Thanks for coming.
I had another
player to watch,
but he was a total
waste of my time.
Yeah, I understand.
You're down a goal
with 30 minutes left.
You got to love
this game, huh?
You got to love
all the high blood pressure
that comes with it.
Don't forget all the ulcers.
Do you want an antacid?
No, thanks.Okay.
So, who am I here to see?
Christian Larou.
Number-- number 11.
11.
Um, if you don't mind,
could you just
turn off your phone
during the game?
Only if this
Larou makes me.
[ laughs ]
Okay, no problem.
Get in there, guys!
Break possession!
Go, Christian!
BOY: Wow!
[ all cheer ]Yeah!
Here we go!
Control, guys!
Control it! Pass!
Good.
Only one minute, gents!
Only one minute
and then we got overtime!
That was a foul!
Push it!
Get in there!
Here we go, Christian!
Yeah! Nice![ cheering ]
[ camera clicks ]
Way to go, boys!
I want that footage edited
and on my desk tonight.
Well?
Well, he's a lefty.
If I show up again
for this number 11--
if-- could be
real good for him.
Thanks a million
for coming out.
I can't tell you
what it means to his family.
We'll talk soon.All right.
[ cheering ]
Yeah! Come on!
Yeah!
Hey, my knights.
We are competing
in the Regional
State Championship!
Yeah! Fun! Yeah!
You know what?
I'm feeling...
like pizza!
[ cheering ]
Dig in!
Remember to share.
Cristiano, can I have
your autograph, please?
Sure.
Thank you.
Dude!
Why didn't you get
her phone number?
Hey, take it easy
on the pizza.
Don't push it.
Next game, we meet
Brendon the Bull.
He's known to lift you
right off your feet.
Don't forget it.
Hey...
I got this.
No worries.
I'm taking that bull down!
Great game, guys.
Really great game.
So are you
enjoying the pizza?
Yes, Mr. Granger.
Call me Frank.
Boy, those boots sure came in handy, huh?
You know, you've been doing your chores at home
and I think it's time for a treat.
How about I buy you
some new boots, huh?
I'm happy with them, sir.It's Frank, remember?
I'd like to buy you
the newest pair
of soccer boots made,
what do you say?
No, Frank.
I'm happy with them.
But thank you.Okay.
You played a great game.
So did you.
Hell of a shot.
You're not so good, huh?
Hey.
I have an idea.
What do you say--
let me kick his butt.
I mean, I can kick his butt.
You know, I'm gonna go
kick his butt right now.
Hold on. Focus.
I know that you can do
some serious damage.
But not today.
But I really want
to kick his butt.
You know why?
I mean, check out
this puppy!
I mean, seriously,
look at that.
Focus! Not today!
Okay.
I guess I got you, man.
That should cool you down.
Thank you.You're welcome.
What?
I want to show
you something.
MAN ON TV:
It's not very often,
but every now and then,
a miracle happens
in the smallest of towns.
And it happened
during a soccer game.
His name is Christian Larou,
and the child phenom
may be just
the type of player
the US Youth
National Team needs
to make it to the World Cup.
Larou plays
for the Northern Stars
in the city
of Farmington Hills
and his coach Dominic Klein
tells us he couldn't come
at a better time
at this point
when the country, his team,
and his family
needs him most.
[ television turns off ]
[ chuckles ]
Now that was cool.
Oh, don't you be sad.
Be proud.
I just--
just wish his father
could see this.
I mean, it--
it just means so much.
You know
what this really means?
What?
That behind every son
is a strong mother.
He needs you.
Now you need to get
strong enough and get
out of this bed.
[ ringing ]
One of the most spectacular
goals by perhaps one of the
youngest players
we've been privileged enough
to have been graced with,
his talent is instinctual,
to say the least.
What are you
thinking, Margie?
I don't know.
Who knows?
No stone unturned, right?
Get me the person
that shot that.
Man.
CHRISTIAN:
Dear God.
I want to say a prayer
for my mom and dad,
but I don't know
what to say.
Please, please
hear my prayer.
I miss them so much.
It's okay if I am here.
I'll be all right.
Also, if you can help Frank,
that'll be great.
Thank you, God,
for listening to me.
Amen.
My knights, you won because
you are a team of fighters.
Now, warriors
never give up.
So you are
no longer my knights.
You are now
my warrior knights!
Now, win this game for me,
for you, for your city!
For your family.
Win us this game.
Now, what are we?
Warrior knights!
What are we?!Warrior knights!
All right, now get out there!
Good luck!
WADL reporting live.
Northern Stars
coming into this game
as the underdogs.
WAZA, very much the favorites,
had a great season.
Their defense is anchored
by that big man, Brendon
the Bull.
BOY:
Come on, come on,
get it back!
ANNOUNCER:
Here's a WAZA player,
gets loose on the left,
but Julian
makes a great save.
Looked like Ted Howard
as he rose up to take it
in the corner.
But it's still WAZA on the move cutting down the left hand side.
Lovely move.
Faked out a defender.
Opportunities
coming for WAZA.
This one is deflected
by a Northern Stars player
out behind for a corner.
Now number 7, Keenan,
on the ball.
But it's still WAZA.
They're asking all
the questions.
Into the middle
comes the ball.
Willie's beaten.
And a left-foot shot
goes by the post again.
But WAZA looked as if they're gonna get a goal in this game.
Clearly the dominant
team so far.
Bringing the ball out
over the halfway line
and into the northern heart of the Northern Stars' defense.
And the cross comes across
the middle and the header
is a goal!
And Julian was
a little slow to react
and it puts WAZA up 1-0
in this important
playoff game.
And it's Brendon
The Bull there... [ whistle blows ]
...with a terrible tackle... DOMINIC: What was that?
...using his physical
presence.
Awful tackle
and a yellow card
quite rightly there.
Finally, we get
a Northern Stars attack
and the shot goes
past the post,
much to the dissatisfaction
of the many Northern Stars
supporters here.
But Christian Larou
now on the ball.
Beats one man.
Beats a second man.
Left-foot shot
and the equalizer.
A goal for
the Northern Stars! Yeah!
It's 1-1.
No wonder the coach is happy.
And now it's Larou
on the ball again.
Lots of players
in front of him.
What can he do here?
Oh, a little flick-over,
a rainbow.
Does the same thing again. [ camera clicking ]
Got through a crowd of players and he gets a left foot shot!
[ all cheer ] 2-1 to the Northern Stars!
Absolutely incredible
turn of events here.
Whoo! Nice!
Hey, good job.
Nice. Oh!
[ laughs ]
Yeah!Oh, Julian!
FRANK:
Hey, Dominic.
[ groans ]
Wow.
Oh, hi, kid. I was just--
I was tidying up.
I'll get out of your way.
Well, go to sleep
and I'll see you tomorrow.
[ music playing ]
♪ Fight on,
you've got to stay strong ♪
♪ Now get up off the ground
♪ Deep down I know
you've got the heart
of a champion... ♪
[ both cheer ]
♪ Hold on,
you've got to be strong ♪
♪ Listen to the sound...
Whoo-hoo!
[ laughs ]
♪ The heart of a champion
♪ Now if you're feeling down,
you're feeling like you're
drowning ♪
♪ Feeling like you're lost
and all alone... ♪
[ cheering ] A goal!
My boy, whoo!Go, Christian!
[ crowd cheering ]
[ laughing ]
♪ You got to listen
to the sound ♪
♪ Fight on, you've got to stay strong... ♪♪
[ crowd cheers ]
Yes!
In the finals
for the first time ever!
[ telephone rings ]
FRANK: Hello? Hi, Frank? It's Kathleen.
Hi.
How you holding up?
I am getting there.
How is Christian?
Fine.
He's doing really well.
Could I talk to him?
Uh, Kathleen,
with the game coming up
and all
the pressure he's under,
it may affect him.
Oh. Yeah.
Uh...
I suppose you're right.
[ chuckles ]
Well, would you just
please tell him that--
that I love him
and that I miss him
very much.
I want to talk to Mom.
Was that Christian?
Frank, is there
something wrong?
No, not at all.
He's just playing
with the kids.
Never give up,
for it brings success,
and that's the best revenge.
FRANK:Kathleen,
take care now, baby.
Okay, bye-bye. Wait, I--
[ clicks ]
I can't believe
after everything
I've done for you
that this is
how you thank me.
You want to be
on the streets, alone?
No.
All right,
go to the basement, Chris.
My name is Christian,
not Chris.
What do you know
about standing up
for yourself, kid, huh?
My dad read me this story--Basement.
Mr. President.
You should take
a look at this.
Father MIA.
Mother in the hospital.
And the boy?
An only child.
He's living
with neighbors.
He has no one,
Mr. President.
He has us.
So this kid
led his team to the finals.
For the first time.
The game is in two days.
I want George Larou
at that game.
Can you hear me, Zulu Nine?
Can you hear me?
[ static hissing ]
Can you hear me, Zulu Nine?
Can you hear me?
Can you hear me, Zulu Nine?
Can you hear me?
Nothing, sir. Those are our boys out there.
Get me the president.
All right.
I know these
aren't your faves.
We're gonna give them
another try today, okay?
[ knock on door ]
My name is Margie Epberg.
I was sent by the president.
The president?
Ladies and gentlemen,
I called this press conference
this afternoon
because I have
a heartfelt story
that must be shared
with the American people.
Today, ladies and gentlemen,
I was informed of a young boy,
a young American boy
who lost his dad in the war.
Later, he found out
that his mother was
rushed to the hospital
as a result of
a sudden accident.
Yet, through sheer
determination,
this boy rose
to his full potential
and he led his team
to the State Regional Finals
for the very first time.
We as Americans
care for each other.
Zero Charlie Seven
approaching Dragonfly.
PRESIDENT: Our freedoms
and our liberty will
never be lost
and your government
will adhere to that principle
and protect it.
Now, this boy has been
without his parents.
His mother,
who is still bedridden,
is unaware
of her husband's fate.
I called her this morning,
as a matter of fact,
to tell her that I will do
everything in my power
to find him.
[ gunfire, explosions ]
I am pleased to tell you
I have good news.
We found the father.
He's alive
and he's headed back home.
[ clamoring ]
Whoa, whoa, whoa.
Loop, yes.
People want to know
what are the names?
Who are these people?
Do we have names?
The soldier's name, Loop,
is George Larou...
[ laughs ]...father of Christian Larou,
husband of Kathleen Larou.
My husband's alive!
You listen.
You listen to me.
You rise up like
the proud mother you are,
and by God,
you walk to your family.
You hear me?
PRESIDENT:
The soldier is George Larou.
father of Christian Larou,
husband of Kathleen Larou.
Come on.
[ clamoring ]
Whoa, whoa, whoa,
listen, I'm just here to say
if this isn't a hero's story,
if this isn't a story
to inspire a nation,
then I don't know what will.
And now if you'll excuse me,
I've got a soccer game to catch.
[ reporters shouting ]
[ doorknob rattles ]
Hello?
[ knocks on door ]
Frank! Hello!
ANNOUNCER: And finally,
after this long season,
the players are coming
out for the final.
The Northern Stars
and DC United.
ANNOUNCER: Looking across
the lineup, though,
I'm wondering,
where is Christian Larou?
ANNOUNCER #2:
Only thing missing from this
game is Christian Larou.
CHRISTIAN:
Frank! Frank!
[ barks ]
That is annoying!
That is very annoying!
Where are you going?
[ barks ]
Charlie, help! Help!
Charlie, please help me![ barks ]
[ "Star Spangled Banner"
playing ]
What do you want? CHRISTIAN: Help! Help!
What do you want, boy?Charlie, help me!
Please help me!
You again?
Why does it always
happen to be you?
Well, perhaps
you can give me
a good reason
why I should help you,
you who have been
a most persistent nuisance!
Get back, boy.
Just get back!
Get back, boy!
Get right back!
Out of the way!
Where is he?He wasn't feeling well.
I gave him some medication,
but his fever would not budge.
I waited, but, you know.
Just my luck.What's that?
Nothing.
All right.
Are you all right, boy?
Did you get cut
or anything like that?
No.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
What happened?
Yeah.
Never did like
that son of a bitch.
I'm late for my game.
So I suppose you want
somebody to take you there.
Yeah.
If you don't mind.
All right, laddie.
Come on then, let's go.
Wow.
Nice wheels.
Thank you.
Wait.
Am I seeing soccer trophies?
And you hate the game?
[ sighs ]
All right, all right.
I'm busted.
In my time, I was good.
No, actually, I--
I was really good.
Soccer was
my entire life.
And then, uh...
one day,
my life changed.
I had an accident.
I broke my legs
and I broke my back.
And in all those years
when I should've been
playing soccer
at an
international level...
I was learning
to walk again.
So I--
I just-- I had to turn
my back on soccer.
You know, I--
I couldn't play anymore.
I couldn't bear
to watch it.
And I was doing
very, very well.
Until one day,
a rather annoying little boy
next door
started practicing.
And I had to endure
his irritating training
sessions.
And you know what happened?
Damn it, once again,
I fell in love
with a beautiful game.
Touching.
No, really.
Touching.
The game!
The game!
Here we go.
Here we go.
FRANK: Go, go, go, go! DOMINIC: Bring it, bring it!
Go, Will!
Oh, man.
[ crowd groans ]Help him out!
[ groans ]
DOMINIC:
Attack the ball!
[ whistle blows ]
ANNOUNCER:
Penalty against
the Northern Stars.
Come on, ref!
ANNOUNCER:
I don't fancy
Julian's chances.
He's looking nervous. [ blows whistle ]
I'm done.
[ sighs ]
Ladies and gentlemen,
Christian Larou
is actually entering
the stadium.
Christian!
Hey, buddy,
I heard you were sick.
Sorry I'm late.
But I feel better.
Well, I'm glad you're better,
but we're down a goal.
ANNOUNCER: The ball flying up into the Northern Stars region.
[ crowd gasps ]
Oh, no.What?
My boots.What boots?
The ones I play with.
That's all right,
we got extras.
Here, play with these.
You don't understand.
I can't play with
anything else.
You're right.
I don't understand.
I can't play without them.
I'm no good without my boots.
Hey, listen to me.
All my life
I wanted to be a winner
and I never got close.
But you got me there.
You got me here.
I've seen you do magic
out on that field.
It's not because
of your boots.
It's because of you.
It's because you
play with heart.
No one can take
that away from you.
I believe in you
like you're one of my own.
Now, put these shoes on
and let's do this.
ANNOUNCER: Christian Larou
has entered the game.
Can this raise
the Northern Stars' spirits?
Washington DC United
still on the move.
But the play's
broken up by Willie.
Nice ball forward
to Christian.
Christian is moving in the
defense, a left-foot shot.
Oh, it looked
as if he had scored,
but in fact,
it's in the side netting.
United are moving in
again on Julian
and the Stars' goal,
but it's broken up.
Northern Stars are
in control of the
the ball again!
They've got it!
Shoot!
It's a goal!Yeah!
ANNOUNCER: It's an incredible
goal inside the left upright!
Whoo!
This is for you!
ANNOUNCER:
Tied game at this point!
Christian Larou has done
what he was expected to do!
[ cheering ]
Hey.
George.
Baby, I thought
you were dead!
Come on,
only two minutes,
my warriors!
Here we go!
ANNOUNCER: We're moving
into the dying seconds
of this game now.
The national title
is on the line.
Northern Stars
bringing the ball out now
down the right-hand side.
It's a lovely attack
from the Northern Stars.
Pass!
Pass it to him!
It's a goal!
Yes!
Goal!Yeah!
[ cheering ]
[ blows whistle ]
That was awesome!
That was awesome!
Christian!
ANNOUNCER: Northern Stars 2-1
in the lead in the final
as we enter the last seconds
of the game!
Oh, my God, he did it!
Oh, look at that!
Oh, look at that.
[ cheering ]
One, two, three!
Good boy.
[ laughing, cheering ]
ANNOUNCER: The Northern Stars
have won the National
Championship
for the first time
in their history.
An incredible achievement.
Thanks for the pass.You're cool, man.
I still got your golden boots.
You want them back?
Just bring them sometime.
[ all hooting ]
Great game.Epic.
Christian.
Mom! Dad!
Christian.
I missed you so much, Dad.
My boy.
I love you so much.
[ crying ]
I love you.
I love you so much.
I love you.
FRANK:
Mom and Dad.
Hold this, baby.
He played quite a game,
didn't he?
[ groans ]
I'll explain later.
Welcome home.Thank you.
Nice.
Paid in full, Frank.
And you're out.
Hey, Golden Boy.
Great game.
Your son
is an exceptional talent.
He's one of the best
I've ever seen.
Thank you.How would you
like to help
the US National Youth Team
win the World Cup?
It's my dream.
Then we got a deal.
We'll talk soon, okay?Thank you so much.
Nice to meet you.Thank you.
Love you, buddy.
Hey, go get your trophy,
all right?
Yeah!
[ music playing ]
♪ Fight on,
you've got to stay strong ♪
♪ Now get up off the ground
♪ Deep down I know you've
got the heart of a champion ♪
♪ Hold on,
you've got to be strong ♪
♪ Listen to the sound
♪ Of my voice
♪ I know you got
the heart of a champion ♪
♪ Now if you're feeling down,
you're feeling like you're
drowning ♪
♪ Feeling like you're lost
and all alone ♪
♪ There's something I know
♪ You're gonna turn it around
right here, right now ♪
♪ And if you let the light in, you could find the right in ♪
♪ In even the worst of times
♪ There's something I know
♪ You're gonna turn it around
right here, right now ♪
♪ You got to listen
to the sound ♪
♪ Fight on,
you've got to stay strong ♪
♪ Now get up off the ground
♪ Now get up off the ground
♪ Deep down I know you've
got the heart of a champion ♪
♪ I know you've
got the heart ♪
♪ Hold on,
you've got to be strong ♪
♪ Hold on,
listen to the sound ♪
♪ Of my voice
♪ I know you got
the heart of a champion ♪
♪ Now when you feel
the weight of the world
crushing down on you ♪
♪ And you just
can't find the will ♪
♪ There's something I know
♪ You're gonna turn it around
right here, right now ♪
♪ And if you find a reason, then you can start believing ♪
♪ Even in the worst of times
♪ There's something I know
♪ You're gonna turn it around
right here, right now ♪
♪ You got to listen
to the sound ♪
♪ Fight on,
you've got to stay strong ♪
♪ Now get up
off the ground ♪
♪ Pick yourself
off the ground ♪
♪ Deep down I know you've
got the heart of a champion ♪
♪ I know you've
got the heart of ♪
♪ Hold on,
you've got to be strong ♪
♪ Hold on,
listen to the sound ♪
♪ Of my voice,
of my voice ♪
♪ I know you got
the heart of a champion ♪
♪ Fight on,
you've got to stay strong ♪
♪ Now get up off the ground
♪ Deep down I know you've
got the heart of a champion ♪
♪ Hold on,
you've got to be strong ♪
♪ Listen to the sound
♪ Of my voice
♪ I know you got
the heart of a champion ♪
♪ Mmm
♪ I know you've
got the heart ♪♪
[ instrumental music playing ]
ANNOUNCER:
The ball is behind him.
He bobbles it,
and still controls it
and scores.
What a remarkable goal
for Cristiano Ronaldo,
one of the world's best. So...
who are we rooting for?
The man is awesome, Mom,
but Portugal is the best.
I'll do anything
to play like him, Mom.
Well, you know,
you got to learn to walk
before you can jump.
ANNOUNCER:
...still controls it
and scores.
You got to be real good
if you want to be on
a national team.
You got to work real hard.
And...
you got to prove yourself
to the coach so he gives you
more play time.
[ sighs ]
I don't want to be
a ball boy anymore, Mom.
I want to play
for the national team.
Yeah?Mm-hmm.
Is that what
you really want?Mm-hmm.
You feel it here?
I feel it here.
Well, you can be
anything you want to be.
We believe in you.
Ah, come here.
I love you too, peanut.
Okay.
Finish your sandwich.
BOY: Goal!
Whoo!
Who scored?
This guy Cristiano Ronaldo
is the best player in the world.
Oh, my gosh,
you should see it.
Well, they're gonna show
the instant replay right now--
No, no, no, no.
I got this.
Again?
Oh, wow.
Mom, see that?
Man, that's how I'd want
to score in a finals game.
Wasn't that just amazing?
Uh, yes.
Wow!Amazing.
I hope I don't
get in trouble.
You said
you believed in me.
[ chuckles ]
Go get your ball.
BOY:
A new ball.
[ both chuckle ]
Finders keepers,
losers weepers.
All right, guys,
go get ready.
[ boys laugh ] We got a new ball.
Hi, Mr. Granger.
Well, if it isn't
Chris the wannabe.
Can I have
my ball back, please?
What ball is that?
So, where's your dad?
On some secret mission?
Hi, Kathleen.
Hey, Frank.
Nice day, huh?Yeah, it's very.
Have you watered
your tulips today?
Well, my work schedule's
been interfering with
my gardening.
How's George?
You know what
this country needs
is heroes at home, too.
To lift up our spirits,
to stand by those who have
to stay home alone, right?
Yeah, well,
this is my hero right here.
FRANK: Right.
Did you find it, hmm?
What'd you lose?
Has Chris been naughty again?
Well, you know,
boys will be boys.
Tell me about it.
Ed and Donald do
the same thing.
They practice in the house
and break things.
But they made
the team of course.
Northern Stars.
And, as you know,
not an easy team to make.
Yes, I do know.
Your boys are very good.
Ah, the best.
Look, Kathleen,
if you need a man's man around,
you know, to keep him in line
and to fix things around
the house,
do not hesitate, call me.
Okay.
Oh, uh, Frank?
Yes, Kathleen?
Could you take Christian
to practice today?
I've got to be
at work again.
I would love to.
That'd be great.
Thank you.
I don't want
to be in his car.
And I don't like
when he calls me Chris.
I think you're being
a little hard on him.
Hi, this is Kathleen Larou.
Yes, I do.
The window guy's
going to be be annoyed.
He's never annoyed, honey.
Ye--
[ whispers ]
He's annoyed.
Told you.
Can you come by
later this afternoon?
Great. All right,
we'll see you then.
Thanks.
All right.
Hey.
Peanut?
I miss Dad.
Oh, me, too, honey.
When can he
watch me play?
Soon, honey.
Soon.
Portugal won because
of Cristiano Ronaldo.
Two goals!
And I could have
scored more,
just like how I
beat you at Xbox.
What do you think, Chris?
You think he's that good?
Yeah, go on.
[ whispers ]
Ball boy.
He uses both feet.
That's why he's good.
Plays on both wings, too.
Doesn't run the wrong way.
He's never missed
a penalty kick.
He can curve the ball
from a dead position into
both directions.
Got a long way to go before
you're that good, huh, kid?
Mom said I can
be anything if I want to.
Mama's boy.
[ laughs ]
Mama's boy.
[ boys laughing ]
FRANK: Okay, kids,
let's go play soccer.
Hurry up, let's go.
MAN: Come on, guys.
Hustle up! You're late!
Here's your ball,
ball boy.
Dominic!
Hey!
Tight on the cones, guys.
Control!
Nice.
Good, good! Keep up the pace!
Keep it up!
[ grunts ]
You got to be joking!
Julian, this is not
a nap session.
Do you mind joining us? Bring it on.
Call that a shot?
[ laughs ]
DOMINIC:
Good! Bring it out!
For our next game,
I'm looking to change up
our strategy.
I just wish we could--
Yeah, make sure
you're playing my sons
then, okay?
If we want to compete
in the state championships,
I have to change up
the strategy, Frank.
Yeah?
Something is missing.
[ blows whistle ]
Josh, pass it right away!
Well, Coach, maybe
the passing is what's
missing.
Ah, I need a poacher.A what?
A striker with instincts.
Mm-hmm.
Hmm.
Chris, go get the balls,
will you?
Donald, sit this one out.
I'm gonna let Christian
have a go.
Well, Chris has hardly
been making it to practice,
Coach.
His father's in the military.
He's got a working mom.
I want to see
if I can't place him
in the team.
All right.And it's my decision.
It is your decision.Hey, Christian.
Take Donald's place
and impress me.
Heads up, Frank.
All right, here we go! BOY: Yeah, come on, Christian.
Show 'em what what you got. DOMINIC: Form a triangle!
Triangle!
Tri-- Josh!
That Josh
is a lazy kid.
[ grunting ]
DOMINIC:
Protect your goal!
[ groans ]
All right, come on.
Time for bed.
Lay down.
You're awfully quiet today.
Is everything all right?
Huh?
Practice a bore?
Did you miss
a chance to play?
I played. You played?
That's wonderful.
Why didn't you tell me?
But I didn't score.
Oh, honey.
That's okay.
Dad always says, "Never quit
and always try your best."
"And a different day
will bring its own blessing."
That's right.
Mom?
Yes.
Why do people hate?
People who hate just haven't
gotten rid of all the bad
inside of them.
Hey, what does Dad say
when, uh-- when things
aren't right?
"Never give up,
for it brings success,
and that's the best revenge."
That's right.
Success
is the best revenge.
I miss Dad.
Oh, honey.
Me, too.
Me, too.
[ gunfire ]
Stay heavy on the flank.
Rogers!I got you.
Keep it down.How can we keep it down?
Our boys have no idea
where we're at.
Make sure we get that
transmission working again.
SOLDIER: Yes, sir.
I am working on that.
James, get those
communications up!
I got-- I got to make a decision
and you can't argue with me.
Now listen up!
We're surrounded
and our ammo's low.
I can't slow you down
and risk your lives.
Sir, if I could
say something--
there's no way in hell
we're leaving you behind,
no way.
If you don't do what I say,
you'll never get out of here.
James, get those
communications up!
Incoming!
All right,
just let me lumber up.
[ grunts ]
That hurt. Okay.
Almost ready.
Hold your horses.
I don't have all day!I'm almost done.
Just let me
stretch my hips.
Okay.
Here we go.
And...
[ farts ]
[ groans ]
Okay.
Oh, oh, okay.
All right.
CHRISTIAN:
Are you serious?
Mmm.You're killing me.
I can't help it.
Chocolate is my weakness.
Kind of like...
kids who watch
the Teletubbies.
Does your mom know?
You're not gonna tell,
are you?
If I score, I get a bar.
You sound like my mom.Let me see them.
[ laughs ]
[ sighs ]
Bellisima!
You're killing me!You said that already.
Okay.
Let's get it on.
Okay.
See why they call me
the goalie.
Pretty intense and awesome.
All the ladies love it.
If the ladies count as my mom,
but still, they love it.
[ sighs ]All right! I'm ready.
One bar for me.
How do you expect
to fly for the ball
when you eat sweets
like you drink water?
Can you just hit
the ball, please?
[ dog barking ]
Not again!
Um...
Yeah, I'm outta here
with my bars.
Oh, it's you again, is it?
The kid that just loves
to play football!
I'm sorry, sir.
Well, you should be sorry!
Who gives you the right
to disturb my afternoon
nap, eh?
Oh, no,
just look at this mess.
The lilacs, the tulips.
Oh, not the pansies.
And you just stand there
as if everything's all right!
I--
Oh, now he's got
a sorry face on!
I-- Well, that's
just wonderful!
Look, I love my plants!
I like watering them!
I like
taking care of them!
Well, at least
the fuchsia has survived.
[ sighs ]
Look, I beg you, please,
keep away from my plants!
Especially the pansies.
You get it?
I'll make sure I never
mess with your pansies
and your tulips,
and your...
Fuchsia! Fuchsia!
Sure. Them, too.
Good-bye.
Come on, Stars,
pull yourselves!
Fight back!
See, you've got
to get back.Josh! Get back!
Keep it moving!
Defense!
Pull yourselves together!
Pull yourselves!
All the way in!
All the way! Mark!
Get that ball.
Get that ball!
Agh! [ cheering ]
Lucky!
Ah, they'll be fine.
Are you kidding me?
Josh, get back!
Keep it ready.
Come on, come on,
come on, come on.
[ grunts ] [ whistle blows ]
Hey!
[ shouts in native language ]
He tripped my son.
Kick him out.
[ blows whistle ]
DOMINIC:
All right, guys,
bring it in!
Grab some bench.
Listen up, guys.
What happened
to the triangle passing?
Heads up, guys.
Short passes,
look for the breaks,
and get into the forwards.
And then we can score.
We could tie this.
And if we tie,
we have a chance
to be in the top two.
You can either
be my champions
or you can be forgotten.
What's it gonna be?
What'll it be?
Champions!There we go!
Christian's got it.
Who else?
I do.I love it!
I'm hungry.
[ sighs ]
What are we?
ALL:
Champions!
I'm sorry,
I couldn't hear you guys.
What are we?Champions!
Yes!
Get out there
and play some ball!
But I'm still hungry.Oh, please.
I'll get you a snack later.
[ cheering ]
[ blows whistle ]
Hustle!
[ whistle blows ] [ cheering ]
DOMINIC:
Fight back!
BOTH: Penalty![ crowd groans ]
[ whistle blows ] DOMINIC: Good call!
Okay, Steve,
you take this!
[ blows whistle ]
[ whistle blows ]
[ crowd cheers ]Yeah!
That's what
I'm talking about!
BOY: Yeah! That's what
he's talking about!
DOMINIC:
Come on, come on!
[ groans ]
I'm gonna be frank, Frank.
Christian is one of our
forwards.
And he's gonna
get play time.
What is your beef
with him, anyway?
I just want to win,
like you.
It's a risk if
you put him in,
that's all.
And I'm the coach.Yes, you are the coach.
Hey, Christian.
Tell me why you think
I should put you in.
I want to show my dad
there's a reason
to come home.
All right, you got
three minutes. Donald!
That's my boy, Christian.
Good game, Donald.
Man.That was close.
It's all right, guys!
Bring it back!
Short passes!
Good effort!
[ crowd groans ] Agh!
Yeah! That's what
I'm talking about!
[ whistle blows ]
Yes!Great!
Yes! Good job, guys.
Fantastic.
We're still in the race.
You did well.Yeah.
And I only had
two bars last night.
[ belches ]
See ya.
Hey, that was great shot.
You were just unlucky.
You played like a champ.
I agree.
Hey, Kathleen,
how you doing?
I'm good, thanks.
You ready?
FRANK:
Hey, should I
get take-out?
He gives me the creeps.
Hey, Dominic.
That's my neighbor.
Army wife.
Those Army wives, man.
Lonely, end in divorce.
It's that
distance thing, you know?
They just can't handle it.
So-- so I'm good to her.
I'll see you
at practice, Frank.
Yeah, Dominic.
See you there.
Mom?
Yeah, honey.
[ sniffles ]
It was sweet,
you watching the game.
Aw, honey.
I am going to make sure
I am at every one of them.
I promise.
You're a cool chick.
[ chuckles ]
Well, thank you.
You know,
your dad used
to say that to me.
Can I sleep next to you?
I wouldn't have it
any other way.
[ distant gunfire ]
Release the Spiders
and Dragonflies.
Yes, sir.
James, we're gonna make it.
I'm down
to one magazine.
We haven't eaten
in days, and I'm--
Soldier, you do your job
and I will get you home.
I promise you that.Yeah.
Like him?
[ explosion ]
Release the Spiders
and Dragonflies!
[ explosion ]
[ panting ]
[ groaning ]
I'll pick you up later?
Have a good day.
Bye, Mom.
[ music playing on radio ]
[ cell phone rings ]
Hello. Hello.
MAN: Kathleen Larou? Yes.
This is Sergeant William Scott from the US Army.
We tried
to reach you at home. Yes, yes, yes.
Uh, I haven't heard
from him in months.
[ echoing ]
I'm afraid he's MIA.
[ tires screech ][ Kathleen screams ]
Your parents left us
a contact person
just in case we couldn't
get a hold of them.
Speaking of the devil.
Where's Mom?
[ siren wailing ]
Hold my hand, young man.
Sir, you can wait there.
Now, you listen.
You be strong
for her, okay?
Mom?
Oh.
Hi, peanut.
Mommy's not
gonna be able to...
come and watch
you play for a while.
Okay?
I'm sorry.
Come here.
Shh.
Everything's gonna be okay.
I'm gonna send
an angel to watch you.
Okay?
Shh.
Why don't you
get some rest?
Thank you.
Don't forget to say
your prayers, honey.
Ah-ah.
Anybody for chicken salad?
She's gonna need time.
Lots.
Grandparents are deceased.
He has no aunts.
The only uncle
has been living
in Japan for 15 years.
Right.
You are on the parents'
list of contacts.
Catch my drift?
Drift.
What drift?
Christian is gonna be in your
care until things get better.
I'll take you to get
a new pair of shoes...
and we'll get your things
from your house tomorrow.
I want Mom.
I know you do.
I know you do.
Well...
let's go to bed, huh?
Hand me your shoes.
Here we go.
There we go.
I love
this old mattress.
If you get
scared or anything,
just call "Frank!"
I'll come running, okay?
Wow.
[ door closes ]
[ music playing ]
[ laughs ]
This is fun.
This soccer ball
is huge.
Wow.
Look at all these boots.
Can I help you, sir?Hey, how's it going?
Good. How you doing?Can I speak to you
for a second?
Sure.
I'm looking for something
on sale or even free.
Uh, these are all
the brands we have, sir.
Anything you guys
want to get rid of.
Think overstock.
Think cheap.
Think giveaway.
Could you let go
of my shirt, please?
Excuse me. Sorry.Thanks.
Um...
uh, isn't he your son?
No, no,
he is not my child.
[ chuckles ]
I may have
just the right thing
for your not child.
Cool.Hey, it's your turn.
I got it. I got it.
You know, this dirty,
worthless pair
that you clearly
stated you wanted
came in by mistake.
Somebody at the factory
must have switched them.
Let's give it a try.
I didn't say anything
about dirty or worthless.
Just affordable.
[ chuckles ]
Let's give them a try.
There you go.
Seriously?
I know they're
a little odd-looking,
but just give them a try.
Thank you
for giving them to me, sir.
I wish I had a better pair
for you, kid, I really do,
but you're welcome, okay?
[ music playing ]
♪ Look at our colors going
♪ Look at our faces knowing
♪ We got the moves,
you can't keep up
with our pace ♪
♪ Grab a hold
of our song... ♪♪
Pass it. Pass it.
Pass the ball!
Darn.
♪ We're undeniable
♪ We are undeniable...
Quick one-two, guys!
Quick!
Hey, nice shoes, kid.
I heard about
what happened to your mom.
And I want you to know
that I'm here for you, okay?
All right?
That doesn't mean
you get a free pass.
You still have
to prove to me
and to yourself
that you can do it.
Now, get out there
and show everyone what
Christian Larou is made of.
All right? Ed!
Hey, look, pal,
I sponsored this team
the past three years.
And I'm gonna
pay you back, Frank.Well, I guess.
You keep playing him,
I want my money back.
Well, I guess I'll have
to pay you back then.
Now to Christian!
[ grunts ]
Sweet mama! That's what
I'm talking about!
[ laughs ]
That just happened!
♪ We are undeniable
♪ We're undeniable
♪ We're undeniable... ♪
You all right there, Frank?Oh, yeah, what a shock.
That was a shock.
[ blows whistle ]
All right, guys,
bring it in!
I heard about your mom.
Don't worry,
she'll be okay.
FRANK: Don't be late, kid. Okay, Mr. Granger!
Huh?
Really.
Charlie,
we are under attack.
Wow.
He's tricking us!
Stay, Charlie, stay.
Here it comes!
Be brave!
Oh! [ Charlie barking ]
Wow.
You okay, sir?[ groans ]
What the devil
is going on?
Practicing.
How are your...
Fuchsias?
They are, uh...
still standing
when last I saw them.
And your...Tulips?
They've seen better days.
Now listen.
We have an issue,
don't we?
About noise.
I'm trying
to make the team.
My dad isn't
here to help me.
So I practice alone.
Well, that's
not my problem.
Besides, I hate soccer.
You hate soccer?
Yes, it always makes
me feel miserable.
You have a problem.
Yes, as a matter of fact,
I do have a problem with it.
And it's my business.
[ sighs ]
Now look,
though I hate to say this,
your daddy is indeed right.
In order to get better,
you must practice.
I can't believe those words
came out of my mouth.
I will practice,
but what about the noise?
Oh, that?
Well--
well, we'll just
have to make...
noise less noisy,
if you...
You can wear earplugs.
Yes, well, we'll--
FRANK: Hey, Chris,
get back in the house.
NARRATOR: With our soldiers
in the battlefield today,
tanks, cannons, artillery...
[ nurse hums ]
Oh, those wars
are taking a toll on us.
Enough already.
Let's get you
a little bite to eat.
How you feeling?
I'm a mess.
[ chuckles ]
You were lucky.
Very lucky.
Let's try this.
Nice to meet you,
Nurse White.
My name is Mary.
Mary White.
And it's a pleasure
meeting you, too,
Kathleen Larou.
He's gonna need
that smile, you know.
That little angel of yours.
Know why?
Why?
'Cause the strength
of a mother
is the only way to lift
the spirit of a child.
You remember that.
Kathleen Larou.
DOMINIC:
Steve, to Mark!
Come on![ groans ]
[ crowd cheers ]
DOMINIC: Come on, guys! [ blows whistle ]
BOY: Hit him, Willie. BOY #2: Hit him!
DOMINIC: Attack the ball!
[ groans ]
DOMINIC: Get it out of there!
Julian, don't
just stand there!
[ cheering ]
What's the use?
Go, Willie, go!
Come on!
You should know better!
It's only
the first half, too.
Boy, Jackson's gonna take
this one all the way, pal.
Thanks for sharing, Frank.
Just saying.
That's the way it goes, man.
Julian!
[ groans ]
I really should quit.
[ blows whistle ]
All right, guys,
bring it in!
Sometime today,
Julian, come on.
You can rest on the bench.
We're not scoring
on the breaks, guys.
If we manage to beat them,
we'll be on top of the league.
We could play in the finals
of this tournament.
Which means we'll have
a shot at competing
in the Regional
State Championship games.
Christian, I'm putting you
in for a full half.
What?!
What?
Donald, put
on your sweat suit.Dominic, come here, buddy.
You're not
being fair to Chris.
Way too much pressure
on that kid, pal.
Look, he needs to get
his mind off his family,
if not just
for half an hour.
Dominic,
you have 30 days
for my money.
Then I'm taking
legal action.
Well, there you go, Frank.
That's the spirit.
Thank you so much.
All right, Stars!
Let's get out there!
Show them no mercy!
Crush them! Come on!ALL: Yeah!
Here we go, Julian!
Here we go!
How's it like living
with an angry person?
It's a downer.
I think angry person
became angrier
when his wife died.
And now you live with him.Yeah.
Ain't life just great?
[ chuckles ]
Come on.
Christian!
Yes!
[ cheering ]
[ blows whistle ]
[ laughs ]Whoa-ho! Yeah!
[ children cheer ] Yes!
Not bad.
[ laughs ]
Good for you, buddy.
DOMINIC:
A little more
sportsmanlike!
[ cheering ]
Yeah!
[ cheering ]
Oh! What was that?![ blows whistle ]
All right, Christian,
you take it.
[ cheering ]
That was... amazing!
We're in.
We are so in!
[ laughs ]
Whoo!
[ children cheering ]
Think I found my striker.
It's okay, Dad,
we still won.Yeah.
What's the golden
kid's name?
Christian Larou.
And, uh, I'm the coach.
Dominic Klein.
Uh, no, K.
E-I-N.
All right.
Hey, you were amazing.
Hey, look at me.
Promise me not to down
those bars before a game.
It's-- it's hard.You have a problem.
Keep this up
and you're on the road to CA.
California?
Chocolate Anonymous.
I'm so weak, man!
I feel better.
[ dialing ]
WOMAN:
Downtown Hospital.
CHRISTIAN: Kathleen Larou,
please. I'm her son.
Ordering a pizza
with mushrooms?
I don't like mushrooms.
Go do the dishes.
What are you doing?
I was gonna clean your shoes,
but they look pretty clean.
Go to sleep.
Ed, Donald,
you guys better be in bed.
REPORTER ON TV:
With the death toll
of our soldiers rising,
both sides are in hot debate
as to when our boys will finally be coming home...
Here you go.
Hot off the press
like you like it.
REPORTER ON TV:
It's affecting
our nation's morale,
the effects of which
are not known as of yet.
With all the nation's problems
from the escalating wars,
health care...
Hey.Yeah?
Get
the news crew together.
...and how fast
can it happen?
And now to sports,
England's Youth Soccer Team
is making headlines
and making a splash
by beating Italy 2 to 0,
securing a spot in
the Youth World Cup finals.
You'll remember, of course,
England won last year,
but the big question is
what about the US?
Our national team has yet
to make it to the finals
and they're struggling once
again, and chances are grim
after being beaten
by Brazil 1 to 0.
Now, analysts are saying
we lack the stars
to carry us into
a championship
or even reach
the competition.
[ dialing ]
Hello, this is Dominic Klein
from the Michigan Youth League.
Is Mitch McClaine around?
Thanks.
Hey, Mitch, it's Dominic.
How are you?
[ laughs ]
Yeah!
We just might do that.
Look, I know you're busy,
but I have to speak to you
about this kid I have.
He's-- he's got the magic
that I think you should see.
It's just--
look, I know your time
is tight as the national
team scout, but you--
Yeah, I really do.
Okay, great,
I'll keep you posted.
Thank you.
Thank you so much.
How are those burgers?
Yeah?
Here you go.
Thank you so much.
What, burger
not good enough?
Ed and Donald like them.
Right, guys?
Yum.
For sure.
I guess Chris thinks
he's a steak man.
Burgers
aren't good enough.
I want to see Mom.
I miss my wife, too,
but I'll never see her again.
So toughen up, kid.
You'll see your mom in time.
Count yourself lucky
I took you in.
Eat your burger.
MAN on TV: Rest assured, this issue is being addressed.
The Secretary of State, the Vice-President, and myself
have had numerous discussions,
and we are just about
to propose such a plan.
Look, the men and women
who serve our country
are our beacon.
Their safety has always
been our concern.
Mr. President, recent polls
have shown that our morale
in our nation
is at an all-time low.
What is your administration
doing to address this?
Why you always
glued to that stuff?
My husband...
George...
[ clears throat ]
he's MIA.
Missing in action.
Hasn't called--Hey, I'm sorry.
I didn't know.
It's okay.
Look, um...
I know this is none
of my business, but...
a friend of yours called
when you were asleep
yesterday
and left a message.
Is everything okay?
You should seriously
read this.
Like, seriously.
Go on.
Open it up.
[ crying ]
That's my boy.
[ laughs ]
That's my baby.
That's right.
You gonna cry? Yeah.
Go on, get it out.
I'm here for you.
Oh, look at him.
Look at him.
I got to talk to him.
Let me get the phone for you.
I'll get the phone for you.
Okay. Thank you.There you go.
Yeah, call
your baby, girl.
[ phone ringing ]
Come on, Julian. Here we go.
[ blows whistle ]
Come on, Julian.
[ blows whistle ]
There you go.
All right, boys.
This is it, right?
Now, we are playing
the league leaders
and they're good.
But you guys are better.
You're my knights.
We win this
and we win the league.
And we can compete
in the Regional Championships.
Now, go out there
and have fun,
but give me nothing
but your best.
Are you my knights?Yes, we are.
I'm sorry. I'm sorry,
I couldn't hear that.
Yes, we are!All right!
Now get it out there
and earn your knighthood!
Come on![ children shout ]
WADL, reporting live.
What are they doing here?Filming.
Defense! Defense!
Get it out of there!
[ applause ]
That's all right!
Just unlucky!
[ blows whistle ]
DOMINIC: All right, guys,
huddle up! Here we go!
I don't even
know where to start.
You guys are playing
right into their strategy.
Now, you got
to break possessions.
You got to--
you got to get in there
and look for Christian
on the breaks.
Christian, you got to find
the window and run for it!
Okay.
Now, Donald,
you're going in for Ed.
[ farts ]
[ children groaning, coughing ]
I didn't do it.
I didn't do it.
Oh, my gosh.
Ah, that felt good.
I could taste that one.
[ groans ]
Are you okay?I'm not sure.
Okay.
[ blows whistle ]
[ crowd exclaims ]
[ exhales ]
[ crowd gasps ]
Still the worrywart?
Oh, Mitch!
Thanks for coming.
I had another
player to watch,
but he was a total
waste of my time.
Yeah, I understand.
You're down a goal
with 30 minutes left.
You got to love
this game, huh?
You got to love
all the high blood pressure
that comes with it.
Don't forget all the ulcers.
Do you want an antacid?
No, thanks.Okay.
So, who am I here to see?
Christian Larou.
Number-- number 11.
11.
Um, if you don't mind,
could you just
turn off your phone
during the game?
Only if this
Larou makes me.
[ laughs ]
Okay, no problem.
Get in there, guys!
Break possession!
Go, Christian!
BOY: Wow!
[ all cheer ]Yeah!
Here we go!
Control, guys!
Control it! Pass!
Good.
Only one minute, gents!
Only one minute
and then we got overtime!
That was a foul!
Push it!
Get in there!
Here we go, Christian!
Yeah! Nice![ cheering ]
[ camera clicks ]
Way to go, boys!
I want that footage edited
and on my desk tonight.
Well?
Well, he's a lefty.
If I show up again
for this number 11--
if-- could be
real good for him.
Thanks a million
for coming out.
I can't tell you
what it means to his family.
We'll talk soon.All right.
[ cheering ]
Yeah! Come on!
Yeah!
Hey, my knights.
We are competing
in the Regional
State Championship!
Yeah! Fun! Yeah!
You know what?
I'm feeling...
like pizza!
[ cheering ]
Dig in!
Remember to share.
Cristiano, can I have
your autograph, please?
Sure.
Thank you.
Dude!
Why didn't you get
her phone number?
Hey, take it easy
on the pizza.
Don't push it.
Next game, we meet
Brendon the Bull.
He's known to lift you
right off your feet.
Don't forget it.
Hey...
I got this.
No worries.
I'm taking that bull down!
Great game, guys.
Really great game.
So are you
enjoying the pizza?
Yes, Mr. Granger.
Call me Frank.
Boy, those boots sure came in handy, huh?
You know, you've been doing your chores at home
and I think it's time for a treat.
How about I buy you
some new boots, huh?
I'm happy with them, sir.It's Frank, remember?
I'd like to buy you
the newest pair
of soccer boots made,
what do you say?
No, Frank.
I'm happy with them.
But thank you.Okay.
You played a great game.
So did you.
Hell of a shot.
You're not so good, huh?
Hey.
I have an idea.
What do you say--
let me kick his butt.
I mean, I can kick his butt.
You know, I'm gonna go
kick his butt right now.
Hold on. Focus.
I know that you can do
some serious damage.
But not today.
But I really want
to kick his butt.
You know why?
I mean, check out
this puppy!
I mean, seriously,
look at that.
Focus! Not today!
Okay.
I guess I got you, man.
That should cool you down.
Thank you.You're welcome.
What?
I want to show
you something.
MAN ON TV:
It's not very often,
but every now and then,
a miracle happens
in the smallest of towns.
And it happened
during a soccer game.
His name is Christian Larou,
and the child phenom
may be just
the type of player
the US Youth
National Team needs
to make it to the World Cup.
Larou plays
for the Northern Stars
in the city
of Farmington Hills
and his coach Dominic Klein
tells us he couldn't come
at a better time
at this point
when the country, his team,
and his family
needs him most.
[ television turns off ]
[ chuckles ]
Now that was cool.
Oh, don't you be sad.
Be proud.
I just--
just wish his father
could see this.
I mean, it--
it just means so much.
You know
what this really means?
What?
That behind every son
is a strong mother.
He needs you.
Now you need to get
strong enough and get
out of this bed.
[ ringing ]
One of the most spectacular
goals by perhaps one of the
youngest players
we've been privileged enough
to have been graced with,
his talent is instinctual,
to say the least.
What are you
thinking, Margie?
I don't know.
Who knows?
No stone unturned, right?
Get me the person
that shot that.
Man.
CHRISTIAN:
Dear God.
I want to say a prayer
for my mom and dad,
but I don't know
what to say.
Please, please
hear my prayer.
I miss them so much.
It's okay if I am here.
I'll be all right.
Also, if you can help Frank,
that'll be great.
Thank you, God,
for listening to me.
Amen.
My knights, you won because
you are a team of fighters.
Now, warriors
never give up.
So you are
no longer my knights.
You are now
my warrior knights!
Now, win this game for me,
for you, for your city!
For your family.
Win us this game.
Now, what are we?
Warrior knights!
What are we?!Warrior knights!
All right, now get out there!
Good luck!
WADL reporting live.
Northern Stars
coming into this game
as the underdogs.
WAZA, very much the favorites,
had a great season.
Their defense is anchored
by that big man, Brendon
the Bull.
BOY:
Come on, come on,
get it back!
ANNOUNCER:
Here's a WAZA player,
gets loose on the left,
but Julian
makes a great save.
Looked like Ted Howard
as he rose up to take it
in the corner.
But it's still WAZA on the move cutting down the left hand side.
Lovely move.
Faked out a defender.
Opportunities
coming for WAZA.
This one is deflected
by a Northern Stars player
out behind for a corner.
Now number 7, Keenan,
on the ball.
But it's still WAZA.
They're asking all
the questions.
Into the middle
comes the ball.
Willie's beaten.
And a left-foot shot
goes by the post again.
But WAZA looked as if they're gonna get a goal in this game.
Clearly the dominant
team so far.
Bringing the ball out
over the halfway line
and into the northern heart of the Northern Stars' defense.
And the cross comes across
the middle and the header
is a goal!
And Julian was
a little slow to react
and it puts WAZA up 1-0
in this important
playoff game.
And it's Brendon
The Bull there... [ whistle blows ]
...with a terrible tackle... DOMINIC: What was that?
...using his physical
presence.
Awful tackle
and a yellow card
quite rightly there.
Finally, we get
a Northern Stars attack
and the shot goes
past the post,
much to the dissatisfaction
of the many Northern Stars
supporters here.
But Christian Larou
now on the ball.
Beats one man.
Beats a second man.
Left-foot shot
and the equalizer.
A goal for
the Northern Stars! Yeah!
It's 1-1.
No wonder the coach is happy.
And now it's Larou
on the ball again.
Lots of players
in front of him.
What can he do here?
Oh, a little flick-over,
a rainbow.
Does the same thing again. [ camera clicking ]
Got through a crowd of players and he gets a left foot shot!
[ all cheer ] 2-1 to the Northern Stars!
Absolutely incredible
turn of events here.
Whoo! Nice!
Hey, good job.
Nice. Oh!
[ laughs ]
Yeah!Oh, Julian!
FRANK:
Hey, Dominic.
[ groans ]
Wow.
Oh, hi, kid. I was just--
I was tidying up.
I'll get out of your way.
Well, go to sleep
and I'll see you tomorrow.
[ music playing ]
♪ Fight on,
you've got to stay strong ♪
♪ Now get up off the ground
♪ Deep down I know
you've got the heart
of a champion... ♪
[ both cheer ]
♪ Hold on,
you've got to be strong ♪
♪ Listen to the sound...
Whoo-hoo!
[ laughs ]
♪ The heart of a champion
♪ Now if you're feeling down,
you're feeling like you're
drowning ♪
♪ Feeling like you're lost
and all alone... ♪
[ cheering ] A goal!
My boy, whoo!Go, Christian!
[ crowd cheering ]
[ laughing ]
♪ You got to listen
to the sound ♪
♪ Fight on, you've got to stay strong... ♪♪
[ crowd cheers ]
Yes!
In the finals
for the first time ever!
[ telephone rings ]
FRANK: Hello? Hi, Frank? It's Kathleen.
Hi.
How you holding up?
I am getting there.
How is Christian?
Fine.
He's doing really well.
Could I talk to him?
Uh, Kathleen,
with the game coming up
and all
the pressure he's under,
it may affect him.
Oh. Yeah.
Uh...
I suppose you're right.
[ chuckles ]
Well, would you just
please tell him that--
that I love him
and that I miss him
very much.
I want to talk to Mom.
Was that Christian?
Frank, is there
something wrong?
No, not at all.
He's just playing
with the kids.
Never give up,
for it brings success,
and that's the best revenge.
FRANK:Kathleen,
take care now, baby.
Okay, bye-bye. Wait, I--
[ clicks ]
I can't believe
after everything
I've done for you
that this is
how you thank me.
You want to be
on the streets, alone?
No.
All right,
go to the basement, Chris.
My name is Christian,
not Chris.
What do you know
about standing up
for yourself, kid, huh?
My dad read me this story--Basement.
Mr. President.
You should take
a look at this.
Father MIA.
Mother in the hospital.
And the boy?
An only child.
He's living
with neighbors.
He has no one,
Mr. President.
He has us.
So this kid
led his team to the finals.
For the first time.
The game is in two days.
I want George Larou
at that game.
Can you hear me, Zulu Nine?
Can you hear me?
[ static hissing ]
Can you hear me, Zulu Nine?
Can you hear me?
Can you hear me, Zulu Nine?
Can you hear me?
Nothing, sir. Those are our boys out there.
Get me the president.
All right.
I know these
aren't your faves.
We're gonna give them
another try today, okay?
[ knock on door ]
My name is Margie Epberg.
I was sent by the president.
The president?
Ladies and gentlemen,
I called this press conference
this afternoon
because I have
a heartfelt story
that must be shared
with the American people.
Today, ladies and gentlemen,
I was informed of a young boy,
a young American boy
who lost his dad in the war.
Later, he found out
that his mother was
rushed to the hospital
as a result of
a sudden accident.
Yet, through sheer
determination,
this boy rose
to his full potential
and he led his team
to the State Regional Finals
for the very first time.
We as Americans
care for each other.
Zero Charlie Seven
approaching Dragonfly.
PRESIDENT: Our freedoms
and our liberty will
never be lost
and your government
will adhere to that principle
and protect it.
Now, this boy has been
without his parents.
His mother,
who is still bedridden,
is unaware
of her husband's fate.
I called her this morning,
as a matter of fact,
to tell her that I will do
everything in my power
to find him.
[ gunfire, explosions ]
I am pleased to tell you
I have good news.
We found the father.
He's alive
and he's headed back home.
[ clamoring ]
Whoa, whoa, whoa.
Loop, yes.
People want to know
what are the names?
Who are these people?
Do we have names?
The soldier's name, Loop,
is George Larou...
[ laughs ]...father of Christian Larou,
husband of Kathleen Larou.
My husband's alive!
You listen.
You listen to me.
You rise up like
the proud mother you are,
and by God,
you walk to your family.
You hear me?
PRESIDENT:
The soldier is George Larou.
father of Christian Larou,
husband of Kathleen Larou.
Come on.
[ clamoring ]
Whoa, whoa, whoa,
listen, I'm just here to say
if this isn't a hero's story,
if this isn't a story
to inspire a nation,
then I don't know what will.
And now if you'll excuse me,
I've got a soccer game to catch.
[ reporters shouting ]
[ doorknob rattles ]
Hello?
[ knocks on door ]
Frank! Hello!
ANNOUNCER: And finally,
after this long season,
the players are coming
out for the final.
The Northern Stars
and DC United.
ANNOUNCER: Looking across
the lineup, though,
I'm wondering,
where is Christian Larou?
ANNOUNCER #2:
Only thing missing from this
game is Christian Larou.
CHRISTIAN:
Frank! Frank!
[ barks ]
That is annoying!
That is very annoying!
Where are you going?
[ barks ]
Charlie, help! Help!
Charlie, please help me![ barks ]
[ "Star Spangled Banner"
playing ]
What do you want? CHRISTIAN: Help! Help!
What do you want, boy?Charlie, help me!
Please help me!
You again?
Why does it always
happen to be you?
Well, perhaps
you can give me
a good reason
why I should help you,
you who have been
a most persistent nuisance!
Get back, boy.
Just get back!
Get back, boy!
Get right back!
Out of the way!
Where is he?He wasn't feeling well.
I gave him some medication,
but his fever would not budge.
I waited, but, you know.
Just my luck.What's that?
Nothing.
All right.
Are you all right, boy?
Did you get cut
or anything like that?
No.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
What happened?
Yeah.
Never did like
that son of a bitch.
I'm late for my game.
So I suppose you want
somebody to take you there.
Yeah.
If you don't mind.
All right, laddie.
Come on then, let's go.
Wow.
Nice wheels.
Thank you.
Wait.
Am I seeing soccer trophies?
And you hate the game?
[ sighs ]
All right, all right.
I'm busted.
In my time, I was good.
No, actually, I--
I was really good.
Soccer was
my entire life.
And then, uh...
one day,
my life changed.
I had an accident.
I broke my legs
and I broke my back.
And in all those years
when I should've been
playing soccer
at an
international level...
I was learning
to walk again.
So I--
I just-- I had to turn
my back on soccer.
You know, I--
I couldn't play anymore.
I couldn't bear
to watch it.
And I was doing
very, very well.
Until one day,
a rather annoying little boy
next door
started practicing.
And I had to endure
his irritating training
sessions.
And you know what happened?
Damn it, once again,
I fell in love
with a beautiful game.
Touching.
No, really.
Touching.
The game!
The game!
Here we go.
Here we go.
FRANK: Go, go, go, go! DOMINIC: Bring it, bring it!
Go, Will!
Oh, man.
[ crowd groans ]Help him out!
[ groans ]
DOMINIC:
Attack the ball!
[ whistle blows ]
ANNOUNCER:
Penalty against
the Northern Stars.
Come on, ref!
ANNOUNCER:
I don't fancy
Julian's chances.
He's looking nervous. [ blows whistle ]
I'm done.
[ sighs ]
Ladies and gentlemen,
Christian Larou
is actually entering
the stadium.
Christian!
Hey, buddy,
I heard you were sick.
Sorry I'm late.
But I feel better.
Well, I'm glad you're better,
but we're down a goal.
ANNOUNCER: The ball flying up into the Northern Stars region.
[ crowd gasps ]
Oh, no.What?
My boots.What boots?
The ones I play with.
That's all right,
we got extras.
Here, play with these.
You don't understand.
I can't play with
anything else.
You're right.
I don't understand.
I can't play without them.
I'm no good without my boots.
Hey, listen to me.
All my life
I wanted to be a winner
and I never got close.
But you got me there.
You got me here.
I've seen you do magic
out on that field.
It's not because
of your boots.
It's because of you.
It's because you
play with heart.
No one can take
that away from you.
I believe in you
like you're one of my own.
Now, put these shoes on
and let's do this.
ANNOUNCER: Christian Larou
has entered the game.
Can this raise
the Northern Stars' spirits?
Washington DC United
still on the move.
But the play's
broken up by Willie.
Nice ball forward
to Christian.
Christian is moving in the
defense, a left-foot shot.
Oh, it looked
as if he had scored,
but in fact,
it's in the side netting.
United are moving in
again on Julian
and the Stars' goal,
but it's broken up.
Northern Stars are
in control of the
the ball again!
They've got it!
Shoot!
It's a goal!Yeah!
ANNOUNCER: It's an incredible
goal inside the left upright!
Whoo!
This is for you!
ANNOUNCER:
Tied game at this point!
Christian Larou has done
what he was expected to do!
[ cheering ]
Hey.
George.
Baby, I thought
you were dead!
Come on,
only two minutes,
my warriors!
Here we go!
ANNOUNCER: We're moving
into the dying seconds
of this game now.
The national title
is on the line.
Northern Stars
bringing the ball out now
down the right-hand side.
It's a lovely attack
from the Northern Stars.
Pass!
Pass it to him!
It's a goal!
Yes!
Goal!Yeah!
[ cheering ]
[ blows whistle ]
That was awesome!
That was awesome!
Christian!
ANNOUNCER: Northern Stars 2-1
in the lead in the final
as we enter the last seconds
of the game!
Oh, my God, he did it!
Oh, look at that!
Oh, look at that.
[ cheering ]
One, two, three!
Good boy.
[ laughing, cheering ]
ANNOUNCER: The Northern Stars
have won the National
Championship
for the first time
in their history.
An incredible achievement.
Thanks for the pass.You're cool, man.
I still got your golden boots.
You want them back?
Just bring them sometime.
[ all hooting ]
Great game.Epic.
Christian.
Mom! Dad!
Christian.
I missed you so much, Dad.
My boy.
I love you so much.
[ crying ]
I love you.
I love you so much.
I love you.
FRANK:
Mom and Dad.
Hold this, baby.
He played quite a game,
didn't he?
[ groans ]
I'll explain later.
Welcome home.Thank you.
Nice.
Paid in full, Frank.
And you're out.
Hey, Golden Boy.
Great game.
Your son
is an exceptional talent.
He's one of the best
I've ever seen.
Thank you.How would you
like to help
the US National Youth Team
win the World Cup?
It's my dream.
Then we got a deal.
We'll talk soon, okay?Thank you so much.
Nice to meet you.Thank you.
Love you, buddy.
Hey, go get your trophy,
all right?
Yeah!
[ music playing ]
♪ Fight on,
you've got to stay strong ♪
♪ Now get up off the ground
♪ Deep down I know you've
got the heart of a champion ♪
♪ Hold on,
you've got to be strong ♪
♪ Listen to the sound
♪ Of my voice
♪ I know you got
the heart of a champion ♪
♪ Now if you're feeling down,
you're feeling like you're
drowning ♪
♪ Feeling like you're lost
and all alone ♪
♪ There's something I know
♪ You're gonna turn it around
right here, right now ♪
♪ And if you let the light in, you could find the right in ♪
♪ In even the worst of times
♪ There's something I know
♪ You're gonna turn it around
right here, right now ♪
♪ You got to listen
to the sound ♪
♪ Fight on,
you've got to stay strong ♪
♪ Now get up off the ground
♪ Now get up off the ground
♪ Deep down I know you've
got the heart of a champion ♪
♪ I know you've
got the heart ♪
♪ Hold on,
you've got to be strong ♪
♪ Hold on,
listen to the sound ♪
♪ Of my voice
♪ I know you got
the heart of a champion ♪
♪ Now when you feel
the weight of the world
crushing down on you ♪
♪ And you just
can't find the will ♪
♪ There's something I know
♪ You're gonna turn it around
right here, right now ♪
♪ And if you find a reason, then you can start believing ♪
♪ Even in the worst of times
♪ There's something I know
♪ You're gonna turn it around
right here, right now ♪
♪ You got to listen
to the sound ♪
♪ Fight on,
you've got to stay strong ♪
♪ Now get up
off the ground ♪
♪ Pick yourself
off the ground ♪
♪ Deep down I know you've
got the heart of a champion ♪
♪ I know you've
got the heart of ♪
♪ Hold on,
you've got to be strong ♪
♪ Hold on,
listen to the sound ♪
♪ Of my voice,
of my voice ♪
♪ I know you got
the heart of a champion ♪
♪ Fight on,
you've got to stay strong ♪
♪ Now get up off the ground
♪ Deep down I know you've
got the heart of a champion ♪
♪ Hold on,
you've got to be strong ♪
♪ Listen to the sound
♪ Of my voice
♪ I know you got
the heart of a champion ♪
♪ Mmm
♪ I know you've
got the heart ♪♪
[ instrumental music playing ]