'The Beautiful Game' (2024) air date, full cast, plot and how to stream Netflix's sports drama movie

Netflix's 'The Beautiful Game' features Bill Nighy and others as integral members of the England football team competing in the Homeless World Cup
Michael Ward as striker Vinnie in a still from 'The Beautiful Game' (@Netflix)
Michael Ward as striker Vinnie in a still from 'The Beautiful Game' (@Netflix)

Movie name: The Beautiful Game

Platform: Netflix

Date of release: March 22, 2024

Country of origin: England

Genre: Sport/Drama

Runtime: 2h 5m

Director: Thea Sharrock

Full cast list: Cristina Rodlo, Bill Nighy, Valeria Golino, Tom Vaughan-Lawlor, Callum Scott Howells, Susan Wokoma, Micheal Ward, Kit Young, Sian Reese-Williams, Jessye Romeo, and others

Netflix and Film 4 are set to bring 'The Beautiful Game' to screens, showcasing the journey of a group of homeless men uniting to represent England at the Homeless World Cup in Italy.

This familiar premise echoes successful 1990s films like 'The Full Monty' and 'Brassed Off', where desperate individuals unite for a shared objective.

With its thematic resonance, 'The Beautiful Game' has the potential to become another cherished gem in this genre.

Supported by the Homeless World Cup, 'The Beautiful Game' features Bill Nighy, Michael Ward, and Callum Scott Howells. This film embodies the theme of second chances, portraying how homeless teams worldwide converge on Rome with everything at stake.

What is the plot of 'The Beautiful Game'?

Micheal Ward and Bill Nighy in a still from 'The Beautiful Game' (@Netflix)
Micheal Ward and Bill Nighy in a still from 'The Beautiful Game' (@Netflix)

Under the guidance of their manager/coach Mal (Bill Nighy), 'The Beautiful Game' tracks the journey of the England soccer/football team from London to Rome for the Homeless World Cup.

A last-minute decision brings the talented striker Vinny (Michael Ward) on board, forcing him to confront personal challenges and a once-promising past to aid the team and pave the way for his redemption.

The official synopsis reads, "Advocates to end homelessness, organize an annual tournament for Homeless men to compete in a series of football matches known as The Homeless World Cup."

'The Beautiful Game' main cast

Bill Nighy

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 04: Bill Nighy attends the Into Film Award 2019 at Odeon Luxe Leicester Squa
Bill Nighy plays the role of a soccer manager Mal in 'The Beautiful Game' (Getty Images)

An acclaimed British actor, Bill Nighy has gained recognition worldwide. His standout portrayal as the washed-up pop singer "Billy Mack" in 'Love Actually' (2003) earned him a BAFTA for Best Supporting Actor. 

Initiating his career on the stage, Nighy garnered acclaim for his roles in various plays such as 'The Vertical Hour', and 'Pravda'.

His performance in the 2001 play 'Blue/Orange' earned him an Olivier Award nomination for Best Actor.

Callum Scott Howells


 
 
 
 
 
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A post shared by Callum Scott Howells (@callumshowells)


 

Keep an eye out for Callum Scott Howells in the role of Nathan.

Callum gained international recognition earlier this year for his poignant portrayal of Colin (aka Gladys Pugh) in the acclaimed drama 'It's A Sin', broadcast on Channel 4 in the UK and HBO Max in the US.

Offering a glimpse of his enthusiasm, Callum shared updates about 'The Beautiful Game' on his Instagram during the filming in Rome, Italy.

Micheal Ward


 
 
 
 
 
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A post shared by @michealward


 

Michael Ward takes the role of Vinny, the lead striker in 'The Beautiful Game'. Ward is an accomplished actor recognized for his roles in 'Empire of Light' (2022), 'The Old Guard' (2020), and 'Blue Story' (2019).

Notably, at the age of 17, he secured victory in a modeling competition and was subsequently hired by Louis Vuitton to showcase their menswear line.

How to stream 'The Beautiful Game'?

'The Beautiful Game' will be exclusively available on Netflix from March 22, 2024.

Access to the film requires a Netflix membership, available starting from $6.99/month for the standard plan with ads.

The standard plan without ads is priced at $15.49/month, while the Premium plan costs $22.99/month.

'The Beautiful Game' trailer



 

 
 
 
 


 
 
 

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