G'olé! (1983)
The official FIFA documentary of the 1982 World Cup, narrated by Sean Connery with a score by Rick Wakeman.
G'olé! - Movie Information
- Original Title: G'olé!
- Release Year: 1983
- Directed by: Tom Clegg
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Documentary
- Runtime: 1h 36m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): March 21, 1983 (United Kingdom)
- Alternative Titles: Gole! (FI), 1982 FIFA World Cup Official Film: G'olé! (UK)
- Production Companies: Tyburn Entertainment
- Production Countries: United Kingdom
G'olé! - Plot
This is the official FIFA film of the 1982 World Cup Finals in Spain. Runs 96 minutes and includes commentary by Sean Connery with a special score composed by Rick Wakeman. Not your average footie film, this is a stunning record of the 1982 tournament finals which included England and Northern Ireland and culminated in Italy's thrilling victory against West Germany.
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G'olé! - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Tom Clegg
Main Cast
- Sean Connery
Writers
- Stan Hey
- Tom Clegg
G'olé! - FAQs
What is G'olé! about?
G'olé! is the official FIFA documentary of the 1982 World Cup held in Spain. It captures the drama and brilliance of the tournament, including England and Northern Ireland's campaigns, and culminates in Italy's thrilling final victory over West Germany. Sean Connery provides the narration throughout.
Who narrates G'olé! and who composed the music?
Sean Connery lends his iconic voice to the narration, giving the film a gravitas well beyond a typical sports documentary. The score was specially composed by Rick Wakeman, the celebrated progressive rock musician, adding a distinctive and memorable musical backdrop to the on-pitch action.
Which teams and matches are featured in G'olé!?
The film covers the full 1982 FIFA World Cup Finals in Spain, including the campaigns of England and Northern Ireland. The centrepiece is Italy's dramatic final against West Germany, widely regarded as one of the most exciting World Cup finals in history, with Paolo Rossi starring throughout.
Who directed G'olé! and when was it released?
Tom Clegg directed G'olé!, with the screenplay co-written by Stan Hey and Clegg himself. The film was released in the United Kingdom on March 21, 1983, shortly after the conclusion of the 1982 World Cup, and was produced by Tyburn Entertainment.
Is G'olé! worth watching for football fans?
Absolutely. G'olé! stands apart from typical sports films thanks to its cinematic ambition, Sean Connery's authoritative narration, and Rick Wakeman's evocative score. The 1982 World Cup is widely considered one of the greatest tournaments ever staged, making this documentary essential viewing for any serious football fan.
How long is G'olé! and what language is it in?
G'olé! runs for 96 minutes — a substantial runtime that allows the film to do full justice to the tournament. It is entirely in English, with Sean Connery's narration guiding viewers through the highs and lows of Spain '82.
What are some similar documentaries to G'olé!?
If G'olé! leaves you wanting more, check out Maradona by Kusturica (2008), Take the Ball, Pass the Ball (2018), The Class of '92 (2013), or Lionel Messi: Destiny (2023). For classic sports filmmaking, Tokyo Olympiad (1965) and the Olympia films are landmark works in the genre.
Does G'olé! have alternative titles?
Yes — the film is also known as Gole! in Finland and carries the extended title 1982 FIFA World Cup Official Film: G'olé! in the United Kingdom. These variations reflect its international distribution as the definitive official record of the Spain '82 tournament.
More About G'olé!
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