Watch Mike Bassett: England Manager

Mike Bassett: England Manager is a 2001 British sports comedy film directed by Steve Barron. The movie tells the story of Mike Bassett, a struggling football manager who's given the chance to lead the England national team during a crucial World Cup campaign. The film is a satirical take on the football culture in England and the challenges faced by the national team, but also touches on more profound themes like national identity and the role of sports in the broader cultural landscape.

The movie features Kevin Piper in the role of Mike Bassett, a loud and boisterous character who's known for his colorful language and abrasive demeanor. Despite his lack of success as a lower-league manager, Bassett is appointed as England manager after the previous coach quits, and he quickly becomes a media sensation. However, his lack of experience and tactical knowledge soon become evident, and the national team suffers a series of humiliating defeats in the first few matches.

As the team's morale hits rock bottom, Bassett is forced to rely on his assistant coaches, played by Ricky Tomlinson and Malcolm Terris, to help him turn the situation around. With little time left before the crucial World Cup matches, the trio must work together to rebuild the team's confidence and find a way to qualify for the tournament.

One of the most notable aspects of the movie is its use of humor, which ranges from slapstick to dry wit to more absurdist elements. The film pokes fun at various aspects of the football world, from the media circus surrounding the national team to the sometimes bizarre behavior of fans. At the same time, it also explores more serious issues, like the tensions between different ethnic communities in England and the pressure felt by the national players to live up to fans' expectations.

Throughout the movie, Kevin Piper's portrayal of Mike Bassett is both comedic and sympathetic. While Bassett is often brash and abrasive, his underlying passion for the game and his desire to see England succeed are also clear. The film also includes a number of cameos by real-life football personalities, including Kevin Keegan and Geoffrey Hurst.

Many viewers of Mike Bassett: England Manager have praised the movie's accurate portrayal of the challenges and pressures faced by national team managers, as well as its incisive social commentary. However, some critics have criticized the film's use of stereotypes and its at times juvenile humor.

Despite these criticisms, the movie has remained a beloved cult classic in the years since its release. Its themes and humor continue to resonate with audiences, and it remains a must-see for fans of British football and sports comedies in general.

Overall, Mike Bassett: England Manager is a fun, entertaining movie that blends humor, drama, and social commentary in a unique and engaging way. With its memorable characters and irreverent take on the football world, it's a film that's sure to delight audiences for years to come.

Mike Bassett: England Manager is a 2001 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 29 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.