Picture Credit: Netflix
Winning a World Cup is impressive; securing the right to host one may be even more so. Netflix’s new film Mexico 86 (El Mundial de México) isn’t about goals, legendary players, or Diego Maradona’s famous Hand of God. Instead, it takes viewers behind the scenes of the political games and behind-closed-doors negotiations that made Mexico’s hosting of the 1986 FIFA World Cup possible. The result is a light and entertaining film with one undeniable standout: Diego Luna.
When Colombia withdrew as host of the 1986 World Cup, an unexpected opportunity suddenly emerged. In Mexico 86, we follow Martín de la Torre, an ambitious Mexican bureaucrat who uses charm, confidence, and a healthy dose of bluffing to convince FIFA that Mexico should host the tournament. Martín doesn’t have unlimited money or political power at his disposal. What he does have is the ability to persuade people and open doors that were never meant to be opened. That leads to a series of negotiations, political intrigue, and plenty of amusing situations.
Diego Luna Steals the Show
The biggest attraction of Mexico 86 is undoubtedly Diego Luna. Most viewers will know the Mexican actor from Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and the acclaimed series Andor. Here, he once again proves why he is one of the best actors of his generation.
Luna plays Martín as a man constantly balancing between brilliance and overconfidence. He talks his way out of difficult situations, comes up with solutions on the fly, and somehow manages to win over even the most powerful people in the room. His natural charisma keeps the film moving at all times. Even when the story unfolds in offices and around dinner tables, he remains fascinating to watch.
Political Intrigue Served With a Light Touch
Director Gabriel Ripstein deliberately keeps the tone light. Mexico 86 is not a hard-hitting political thriller, nor is it an attack on FIFA or government corruption. Instead, it uses those elements as the backdrop for an accessible drama with satirical touches. For the most part, that approach works. The pacing is brisk, the runtime of just over 90 minutes flies by, and the humor regularly raises a smile.
I’m not familiar enough with the historical facts behind these events to judge how accurately Mexico 86 reflects reality. Even so, I often found myself feeling that there was a bigger story lurking beneath the surface. The political interests, diplomatic tensions, and behind-the-scenes power struggles all seem like rich material for a more substantial drama. While it’s consistently entertaining, there are moments when you can’t help but wonder whether a deeper exploration of these events could have resulted in something far more compelling.
Production and Atmosphere Hit the Right Notes
Netflix has clearly invested in the production. The 1980s setting feels authentic thanks to strong costume design, detailed sets, and a convincing atmosphere. The cinematography looks polished, and the film maintains a professional appearance from beginning to end. More importantly, it does an excellent job of showing that some of the biggest moments in sports history are often shaped far away from the stadium.
MVP
There is no denying that Diego Luna carries the entire film on his shoulders. Once again, he shows just how versatile he is, proving that he can handle a lighter, more comedic role just as well as the dramatic parts most viewers know him for. What makes Luna so good here is how natural he feels. One moment he’s talking his way out of trouble; the next, he’s convincing powerful people to follow his lead. He brings a great deal of energy and charisma to the role, and it’s hard to imagine the film working nearly as well without him.
Picture Credit: Netflix
Watch Mexico 86 on Netflix if you like:
- Brazil 70: The Third Star
- Senna
- Ted Lasso
Verdict
Mexico 86 won’t be for everyone. Viewers looking for intense drama, edge-of-your-seat suspense, or action-packed entertainment may want to look elsewhere. However, those who enjoy historical stories, political satire, and a charismatic lead performance will find plenty to appreciate here. While the film could have delved deeper into some of its themes and real-life events, it remains consistently entertaining throughout. It may never reach the heights of a truly unforgettable drama, but Diego Luna’s energetic performance and the film’s brisk, engaging pace make it an enjoyable watch from beginning to end.
