In the world of sports, few names become timeless symbols like 'Pelé.' But the documentary Pelé (2021) doesn't just come to glorify the football legend once again. It plunges us into the life of a man who carried the hopes of a nation on his shoulders, amidst political uncertainty and immense expectations. This is the journey of a poor boy who became the king of football, yet remained a human with a heart.
Plot Summary (No Spoilers)
The documentary Pelé begins with the childhood of Edson Arantes do Nascimento in Três Corações, Minas Gerais, where he learned football from his father, a former player. Through rigorous training, he was discovered by Santos FC and rose to become a world-class player at just 17. The film gradually reveals Pelé's path to becoming a three-time World Cup legend, interwoven with the political context of Brazil during the military dictatorship that used football as a tool for national image-building. However, the film focuses on key moments such as the 1958, 1962, 1966, and 1970 World Cups, without revealing the end of Pelé's post-playing life, but concludes with the legacy he left for football and Brazilians.
Performance and Characters
As a documentary using real footage and interviews with close associates, the main character is Pelé himself, appearing through archival footage and current interviews. We see his sincere expressions both on and off the field, especially when he talks about the pressure and love for football. Other figures like Zagallo (teammate), Gilberto Gil, and Fernando Henrique Cardoso (former Brazilian president) help provide perspectives on how Pelé influenced Brazilian society. The absence of actors makes the feel raw and natural.
Direction, Cinematography, and Music
Directors Ben Nicholas and David Tryhorn (creators of The Two Escobars) choose a non-linear narrative, cutting between past and present, making it engaging and not boring. Old footage is well-restored, giving a nostalgic feel, while new footage captures contemporary Brazil vibrantly. The soundtrack uses Brazilian music like samba and bossa nova, creating a warm and powerful atmosphere, especially during climaxes of important matches.
Editorial Analysis
Our editorial team views this documentary as more than a typical sports biography, as it dares to question the relationship between football and politics. Pelé was used as a propaganda tool by the military government in the 1970s, yet he also tried to maintain his own political stance. The film also reflects social inequality in Brazil through Pelé's life from a poor family. The conflict between 'human' and 'legend' is the core of this story. Pelé had to bear the heavy expectations of a nation, yet remarkably maintained his identity.
Verdict
The documentary <strong>Pelé</strong> is suitable for both football fans and those interested in Brazilian history. It is more than a story of a legendary player; it is an exploration of the relationship between sports, politics, and society. If you want to see another side of Pelé beyond football, this film is the answer.
Screenshots
👍 Pros
- +Intense and sophisticated storytelling, blending football with political history seamlessly.
- +High-quality old footage and beautiful cinematography, immersing you in the 60s-70s atmosphere.
- +Hear Pelé's interviews in old age, offering deep and warm perspectives.
👎 Cons
- −Non-football fans may find some sections too detailed on matches.
- −Lacks coverage of other aspects of Pelé's personal life, such as family and relationships.
Top Cast
FAQ
Currently available on Netflix (subscription required) and may be available for rent or purchase on other platforms like Apple TV or YouTube.
It is a 108-minute single-episode documentary, not a series.
Mostly matches recorded history, but with interpretation and emphasis on political context, which may have some bias. However, it does not distort main facts.
Besides knowledge of Pelé's life, you'll understand Brazil's history during the military dictatorship and the role of football as a social and political tool.
