The Birth of the Goalie of the 2001 F.A. Cup Final

Synopsis

The Birth of the Goalie of the 2001 F.A. Cup Final, directed by John Smith and featuring Richard Ireson, is a unique sports drama released in 1982. The film imagines a futuristic and thrilling journey centered on the unexpected emergence of a young goalkeeper destined to play in the 2001 F.A. Cup Final—a game pivotal to his personal growth and the fate of his team. Blending elements of sports, personal ambition, and societal perspectives, the story unfolds with emotional depth and an inventive narrative style. It explores the challenges faced by athletes in a changing world while emphasizing themes of passion, dedication, and the transformative power of sport.

Cast

• 

  Richard Ireson

  Father

• Celia Quicke

  Mother

Reviews

Critical reception of The Birth of the Goalie of the 2001 F.A. Cup Final has been mixed over the years. On IMDb, it holds a modest rating of 6.3/10, reflecting a niche but appreciative audience. Some reviewers praised Richard Ireson's compelling performance and the film's imaginative premise. A notable review from AllMovie commended the movie's 'inventive approach to sports storytelling,' highlighting the film’s ability to blend speculative elements with a traditional underdog narrative. However, some critics pointed out pacing issues and a script that occasionally falters in balancing its futuristic vision with character development. Rotten Tomatoes does not have a critic score due to the film's cult status, but audience reviews note its 'quirky charm' and 'out-of-the-box concept.' Metacritic, similarly, does not list the title, indicating limited contemporary coverage. Overall, the film is regarded as a cult classic appreciated for its originality and emotional beats, though it may challenge viewers expecting conventional sports drama.

See also

Muzzle

The Play House

An Impudent Girl

Dude Bro Party Massacre III