Watch Mercenary

Mercenary is a 2016 French drama film directed by Sacha Wolff. The movie follows the story of a young Wallisian named Soane (Toki Pilioko) who moves to France to pursue his dream of becoming a professional rugby player. He is recruited by Christophe (Laurent Pakihivatau), a former rugby player who now runs a team of Pacific Islander players in France. Soane is quickly immersed in the world of semi-professional rugby, with all its highs and lows.

Soane's dream of playing professional rugby in France is quickly dashed when he is cut from the team. Christophe, desperate to keep his team afloat, proposes a risky plan to Soane - to become a mercenary, playing for a rival team in a league below their own. Despite reservations, Soane agrees and finds himself playing for a team of mercenaries made up of players from different countries.

The team's journey is far from smooth, with internal tensions and external pressures threatening to tear them apart. Soane is forced to confront his own identity as part of the Pacific Islander diaspora, as well as the role of money and race in professional sports. Along the way, he forges unlikely friendships and grapples with the meaning of true success.

Toki Pilioko gives a stand-out performance as Soane, bringing an intense energy and emotional depth to his portrayal. His physicality on the rugby field is impressive, and his vulnerability off the field is heart-wrenching. Iliana Zabeth plays Coralie, Soane's love interest, with a quiet strength and grace that complements Pilioko's intensity. Mikaele Tuugahala is also notable as Abraham, a seasoned mercenary and Soane's mentor on the team.

Director Sacha Wolff does an excellent job of capturing the world of semi-professional rugby in France, with a gritty, realistic style that immerses the viewer in the sport's highs and lows. The use of French and Wallisian languages adds an authentic touch and underscores the cultural clashes at play. The cinematography is stunning, showcasing the rugged beauty of the French countryside and the intensity of the rugby matches.

Mercenary is not just a sports movie - it's a story about identity, community, and the pursuit of dreams. It delves into complex issues such as immigration, economic inequality, and cultural assimilation with nuance and sensitivity. The relationships between the characters are nuanced and layered, and the film offers a glimpse into a world seldom seen on the big screen.

Overall, Mercenary is a powerful, thought-provoking film that will leave a lasting impression on viewers. Though it is a story about rugby, it is ultimately a story about the human spirit, and the lengths we will go to achieve our goals. It is a must-watch for sports fans and non-sports fans alike, and a testament to the power of cinema to tell meaningful stories.