Watch This is Not a Ball

This is Not a Ball is a documentary film from 2014 directed by Vik Muniz and Juan Rendon. The film takes the viewer on a journey exploring the universal language of soccer and its cultural impact worldwide, while also showcasing the work of Brazilian artist Vik Muniz. The film begins with scenes of Muniz exploring various materials he can use to create a giant soccer ball, including recycled metals, plastic bottles, and even sugar. He then begins to assemble his creation, with the help of an engineering team made up of Marcelo Coelho and Edith Ackerman.

Throughout the film, Muniz and the engineering team discuss the logistics of creating a soccer ball that is larger than life, and the challenges they face in achieving their goal. They also visit several locations worldwide, including a soccer pitch in the small town of Jau in Brazil, where the local kids explain what soccer means to them and how it brings their community together.

The film also delves into the history and cultural impact of soccer, interviewing famous soccer players such as Pelé and Ronaldo, as well as soccer fans from all walks of life. The interviews are edited to highlight the diverse voices and perspectives on the sport, from the amateur to the professional level.

The documentary highlights the power of soccer to unite people across cultures, languages, and even political differences. It showcases how the sport has become a universal language, creating a sense of community and belonging for its fans around the world.

Throughout the film, Muniz's artwork is also featured, including his use of soccer balls in previous art pieces. These pieces showcase the beauty and simplicity of the soccer ball as a symbol and highlight its significance beyond just the sport itself.

As the film reaches its climax, we see Muniz's creation come to fruition, as the giant soccer ball is finally completed and inflated. The film captures the excitement and anticipation of the crowd as they witness the ball being inflated for the first time.

Throughout the documentary, the filmmakers utilize a wide range of creative techniques to engage the viewer's senses and create a visceral experience. The use of slow-motion footage, in particular, creates a sense of beauty and drama around the creation of the giant soccer ball, while the interviews with soccer fans and players provide a personal touch that makes the film relatable to a global audience.

In conclusion, This is Not a Ball is a inspiring and thought-provoking film that explores the cultural impact of soccer in a unique and creative way. It highlights the sport's ability to unite people across cultures and backgrounds, and celebrates the beauty and power of this universal language.

This is Not a Ball is a 2014 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 31 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.2 and a MetaScore of 43.