The film opens in operatic fashion with Wayne sticking and moving against a punching bag to a cinematic score, drawing parallels to Raging Bull, a film that focuses on a real-life figure who's anger and intensity benefit him in the ring, but become his downfall overall, as his relationships and public image suffer from those same impulses. Unfortunately, the allegories and cinematic ambition ends there. What we are left with is familiar footage of famous matches most will know the score to, and uninspired interviews that serve only as an affirmation of one man's legacy within the beautiful game.
From the same producers of contemporary classics such as 'Diego Maradona, 2019' and 'Supersonic, 2016' this film's subject figure is not out of place when compared to the latter in terms of ability, celebrity, and the polarisation of public reception to their image over the years. However, whilst those aforementioned documentaries pulled no punches, getting to the heart of their subject through a balanced representation, this film feels more like a promotion of the name, as opposed to an authentic exploration of a figure who has captivated the nation, for better or for worse with his footballing and personal exploits.
This familiar, and at times insightful documentary looks into the many highs and lows of the celebrated and highly decorated international footballer Wayne Rooney. From his time at the pinnacle of club football with Manchester United, to his eventual transition into management with Derby County.
Clocking in at 1 hour, 45 this documentary works as more of a tribute than an examination of the player. We get to see what made Rooney a trail blazer as a boy among men, going from his youth days at Everton as a young boy, to quickly becoming the great hope for the underachieving 'golden age' generation of players.
Rooney was a polarising figure as a player, and as a film 'Rooney' will have viewers divided for different reasons. Choosing such a title is apt for this documentary as the film focuses on the celebrity and the 'baller', but spends little time with 'Wayne' the man. The scenes we do see of Wayne that aren't archive, appear contrived and a bit too polished, whereas the film comes to life when exploring Wayne's achievements and moments on the pitch, and this is an occurring problem when half of the film is Wayne and Colleen addressing the camera through anecdotes.
The film's biggest issue is perspective, as we are told several opinions from a very narrow and controlled point of view. Events are commentated on from the Rooney camp predominantly. From his wife and ex gaffer Sir Alex, to Garry Neville and David Beckham. There is little to no insight from the public, media or people outside his social sphere in general, whilst the interviews feel very one note and lacking in insight. Quite amazing considering some of the insight these people have. Infamous incidents involving prostitutes and scandal are merely touched on before moving on swiftly back to the football and medals. There is no challenging of his character in a documentary that is sorely lacking in conflict, especially considering its subject matter.
Regarding the timing of the film's release, it's a conflict of interest when you consider Rooney's recent move into management. Because of this, the motivations behind its existence have to be called into question. The documentary comes off as one large P. R move to polish Rooney's image whilst he has his say on past 'transgressions'. Something else to consider is the fact that his story has not yet finished. At the age of 37, I'm sure there will be a lot more to the Rooney odyssey to come.
Ultimately, in an era where contemporary football documentaries such as 'Sunderland 'Til I die, 2018' and 'Tottenham 'All or Nothing: Tottenham Hotspur, 2020' give fresh insight into professional football culture through innovative exploration and a 'fly on the wall' approach that shows more than the polished idyllic image of a professional player, this film offers little in way of moving the genre forward. I feel because of this, fans of Manchester United, England and football in general may enjoy this film, but it brings little else to the table as a documentary. Rooney's greatest hits would have been a more appropriate name for this unfortunate puff piece that had so much potential.
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