Netflix viewers are hooked on a gritty sports drama that came out over 22 years ago
Netflix viewers are utterly engrossed in a hard-hitting sports drama released more than 22 years ago.
The streaming platform’s most-watched rankings are largely filled with new titles, including popular romcom Voicemails for Isabelle and disturbing documentary Maternal Instinct.
But UK-based audiences are also flocking to 2004’s The Football Factory – particularly timely given the current focus on the FIFA World Cup.
Helmed by director Nick Love, the film currently holds the Number 9 spot on the trending list. It centres on Tommy Johnson (portrayed by Danny Dyer), a dedicated Chelsea football hooligan.
Tommy and his mates fill their time drinking, pursuing women, taking drugs and “occasionally kicking the f*** out of someone”.
However, the football enthusiast must reassess his violent ways after one of his match-related brawls results in grave repercussions, reports the Mirror.
Based on John King’s 1997 novel, the narrative explores significant themes including young men’s desire for community, alongside their dissatisfaction with unjust socio-economic structures. It also provides perspective on escapism via substance and alcohol misuse.
While Dyer fronts this production, he shares the screen with other familiar faces. One particularly notable co-star is Tamer Hassan, whom Love Island enthusiasts will recognise as recent All Stars contestant Belle Hassan’s father.
He portrays Fred, a Milwall hooligan and bitter rival of the Chelsea supporters. Fans have been singing the praises of this noughties drama for years.
“One of the best football films,” declared one Rotten Tomatoes user.
Another enthusiastic viewer gushed: “10/10 – Brilliant film! Easily in my top 5 favourite movies. A must see for football fans.”
A further reviewer enthused: “One of the best English films you will ever see for sure, got everything in it! now this is funny and gripping!”.
One film aficionado shared their thoughts on IMDb: “It’s top drawer entertainment and better than most of the garbage that fills your DVD store. I would highly recommend this to anyone who likes realistic and gritty films, and doesn’t mind occasional stomach turning violence.”
And one final cinemagoer was adamant: “I can honestly say this is by far the best British film I’ve ever seen.”
The Football Factory is now on Netflix
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