Watch Becoming Zlatan

Becoming Zlatan is a compelling and intimate documentary that chronicles the fascinating backstory of one of the most renowned footballers of our time, Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Directed by Magnus and Fredrik Gertten, the film takes us on a journey through Zlatan's tumultuous early life, from his childhood in the tough Malmö neighborhood of Rosengård to his rise to international stardom.

We first meet Zlatan as a fiery and determined teenager, a raw talent with a chip on his shoulder and a burning desire to become the best. The film provides rare access to some of his earliest mentors, including former coach Hasse Borg, who helped mold Zlatan's talent and instill in him a sense of discipline and work ethic that he carries with him to this day.

We see Zlatan as he navigates the complex and often cutthroat world of Swedish football, battling through injury and adversity to prove himself and earn a place on the national team. Along the way, we get a sense of the pressure he faces, both from within himself and from the expectations of his family, friends, and fans.

What sets Becoming Zlatan apart from other sports documentaries is its unflinching honesty in portraying the darker aspects of Zlatan's early life. We see him struggle with anger management issues and a troubled home life, including a father who abandoned him at a young age. These struggles inform his fierce determination and unrelenting drive, but also raise questions about the psychological toll that such relentless focus and ambition can take.

In addition to interviews with Zlatan, his family, and his coaches, the film also includes never-before-seen footage of his early games and training sessions. These glimpses into his formative years help paint a vivid portrait of the young Zlatan, brimming with talent and potential, but also grappling with the challenges that come with trying to make it in one of the most competitive and demanding sports in the world.

One of the most compelling aspects of Becoming Zlatan is the way it situates the footballer's rise to fame against the backdrop of broader social and cultural changes in Sweden. We see glimpses of life in Rosengård, a heavily immigrant neighborhood that has faced its share of economic and political struggles over the years. Zlatan's story becomes a lens through which to explore not just football but also issues of identity, race, and class.

Ultimately, Becoming Zlatan is a deeply human story about the power of talent, resilience, and perseverance. It shows us a young man who overcomes incredible obstacles and never loses sight of his dreams, even as he rises to the pinnacle of his profession. Fans of football will find plenty to admire in Zlatan's skill and tenacity, but the film also speaks to a wider audience, offering a stirring portrait of one of sport's most iconic figures and the untold story behind his success.

In short, whether you're a passionate football fan or simply looking for a compelling human story, Becoming Zlatan is a must-see documentary that will leave you inspired and moved.

Becoming Zlatan is a 2016 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 36 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.