This is a remarkable film. It is a revealing insight into a time which is embedded into the cultural psyche of any football fan or indeed, any sports fan. Of course, if one is a Man Utd fan (like myself) it is an absolute treat!
I defy any Utd fan not to get a lump in their throat as they relive Beckham's wonder goal from the halfway line against Wimbledon, or Giggs' gravity-defying dribble and match-winner against Arsenal in the the semi-final replay of '99, or Ole Gunnar Solskjær's toe-poked winner against Bayern Munich in the epic Champions League final of '99.
It's not just a catalogue of footballing highlights however. It gives a real insight into the mindset and environment these working-class, soon-to-be superstars were nurtured in.
I know all film-making is manipulation, clever editing and good story-telling, but it is difficult to believe that the relaxed, raw and even hilarious anecdotal banter between the now legendary players, is anything other than genuine, transparent, respect and admiration for each other.
The blend of talent, ability, dedication, character, camaraderie and ultimate history-making achievement between these young footballers is like a far-fetched story from a kids' football magazine. Yet it is all true.
I firmly believe that the current infrastructure of football doesn't permit this kind of situation from ever occurring again. We live in a different world now.
As a side-note, the current under-performing Man Utd team (and manager) should watch this together to remember the amazing legacy they are trying to preserve.
I defy any Utd fan not to get a lump in their throat as they relive Beckham's wonder goal from the halfway line against Wimbledon, or Giggs' gravity-defying dribble and match-winner against Arsenal in the the semi-final replay of '99, or Ole Gunnar Solskjær's toe-poked winner against Bayern Munich in the epic Champions League final of '99.
It's not just a catalogue of footballing highlights however. It gives a real insight into the mindset and environment these working-class, soon-to-be superstars were nurtured in.
I know all film-making is manipulation, clever editing and good story-telling, but it is difficult to believe that the relaxed, raw and even hilarious anecdotal banter between the now legendary players, is anything other than genuine, transparent, respect and admiration for each other.
The blend of talent, ability, dedication, character, camaraderie and ultimate history-making achievement between these young footballers is like a far-fetched story from a kids' football magazine. Yet it is all true.
I firmly believe that the current infrastructure of football doesn't permit this kind of situation from ever occurring again. We live in a different world now.
As a side-note, the current under-performing Man Utd team (and manager) should watch this together to remember the amazing legacy they are trying to preserve.