Pelé: Birth of a Legend

Pelé: Birth of a Legend

Year: 2016

Runtime: 107 min

Language: English

Directors: Jeff Zimbalist, Michael Zimbalist

BiographyDramaSport

In this cinematic biography, Pelé's extraordinary journey unfolds, tracing the rise of the Brazilian soccer legend from a childhood marked by hardship to international stardom.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Pelé: Birth of a Legend (2016)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Pelé: Birth of a Legend (2016). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1950-1961

The story unfolds during a pivotal era in football history, notably between the 1950 and 1961 World Cup tournaments. The period is marked by Brazil's initial heart-wrenching defeat in the 1950 final against Uruguay and subsequent rise to glory with Pelé's emergence. This era also reflects the evolving dynamics in football style and tactics as Brazil navigates traditional approaches and modern influences.

Location

Brazil, Sweden

The movie primarily takes place in Brazil, showcasing the vibrant culture and love for football that defines the nation. Brazil, known for its diverse and rich history in sports, serves as the backdrop for Pelé's early struggles and triumphs. The climactic moments of the film unfold in Sweden during the unforgettable 1958 World Cup, where Pelé's skills shine on the international stage.

🇧🇷 Brazil 🇸🇪 Sweden

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:16

Main Characters – Pelé: Birth of a Legend (2016)
Meet the key characters of Pelé: Birth of a Legend (2016), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Pelé (Dico)

Pelé, born Edson Arantes do Nascimento, is a young boy with a dream to become a football legend. Despite humble beginnings, Dico's innate talent and unwavering resolve lead him to rise to stardom. He faces various challenges, including familial disapproval and fierce competition, yet his journey symbolizes resilience and the pursuit of excellence.

🌟 Legend ⚽️ Footballer 💪 Resilience

Vicente Feola

Vicente Feola is the manager who guides the Brazilian national team during the critical World Cup journey. He embodies the tension between traditional Brazilian football styles and modern European tactics, which he grapples with throughout the championship. His mentorship is pivotal in shaping Pelé’s career and the team's strategy.

🎓 Mentor 🏆 Coach ⚖️ Traditionalist

Dondinho

Dondinho, Pelé's father, is a former footballer who inspires his son with his passion for the sport. He supports Dico's ambitions despite the family's struggles, instilling a belief in hard work and perseverance. His character represents the encouragement and sacrifices made by parents for their children's success.

👨‍👦 Father ⚽️ Supportive ❤️ Encourager

José Altafini 'Mazzola'

José Altafini, known as Mazzola, comes from a privileged background and often bullies Dico during their youth. His character highlights the social class differences in Brazilian society and serves as an initial antagonist in Dico's journey. His rivalry with Dico adds tension and motivates Dico to prove his skills.

🎩 Wealthy 😠 Antagonist ⚽️ Rival

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:16

Major Themes – Pelé: Birth of a Legend (2016)
Explore the central themes of Pelé: Birth of a Legend (2016), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

⚽️ Football

Football serves as the central theme of the movie, illustrating the passion and dedication it inspires in individuals and communities. Pelé's journey from a young boy playing with makeshift equipment to leading Brazil to World Cup glory highlights the sport's ability to transform lives. The film celebrates not only the athleticism and skills of the players but also the cultural significance of football in Brazil.

🏆 Ambition

The theme of ambition drives Pelé's character as he aspires to bring glory to Brazil following the country's defeat in 1950. Through determination and hard work, Pelé overcomes numerous obstacles, including personal and familial pressures, to achieve his dreams. This ambition is not just personal but also reflects a nation's hope for success on the world stage.

🤝 Mentorship

Mentorship plays a crucial role in Pelé's development, particularly under the guidance of coach Vicente Feola and his father Dondinho. This theme emphasizes the importance of support and belief in one's abilities, shaping Pelé into a confident player. The relationships forged throughout his journey illustrate the collaborative spirit necessary for achieving greatness.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:16

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