In a small, rustic village a group of children are engaged in a brandishing soccer game. The ball is an old, sun-bleached leather relic but the children’s enthusiasm brings it to life. One child – the underdog, an echo of Pele – shines brightly, his raw talent evident in his nimble footwork and determination.
The scene is framed such that the child is always in the center, his opponents circling around him like predators. The camera angle is a low wide-angle shot putting the audience right in the thick of the action, feeling every tackle, every gust of wind. A drone captures overhead shots, demonstrating the child’s isolation despite being surrounded by adversaries.
The setting sun paints the sky with pastel hues which softly luminesce the children and grassy field, creating a dreamy, nostalgic atmosphere. The village houses with their worn-out, color-stripped walls serve as a stark contrast to the vibrant game unfolding.
In the background, a placeman watches attentively, his seasoned eyes tracking the performance of the potential, young superstar. His presence is muted, but his positioning in the frame brings a level of tension and anticipation.