Common Sense Media Review
By Stefan Pape
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Bad language in fact-based soccer drama about clashing egos.
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Saipan
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
On the eve of the 2002 World Cup, the Republic of Ireland soccer team are preparing on the island of SAIPAN. But things don't go to plan, leading to a spectacular falling out between the team's captain, Roy Keane (Éanna Hardwicke), and manager Mick McCarthy (Steve Coogan).
Is It Any Good?
Those unfamiliar with this story may be shocked to learn that it divided Ireland, with citizens choosing sides between captain Roy Keane and manager Mick McCarthy. Saipan charts the days that eventually led to the explosive falling out between the two men, culminating in Keane walking out on the squad on the eve of the 2002 World Cup. Underlying themes of identity and a fascinating clash between the happy-go-lucky McCarthy and the fiercely ambitious, aggressive perfectionist Keane give the story a universal quality—this is, at heart, a workplace drama about incompatible personalities.
Directors Glenn Leyburn and Lisa Barros D'Sa weave in real news footage from the time, which occasionally feels like an attempt to validate the story's significance, but their storytelling is assured and their touch is gentle enough to keep the audience onside. Hardwicke is sensational as Keane, capturing the man's nuances without ever tipping into impression territory. Coogan is impressive too, despite a lack of physical resemblance to the real-life McCarthy. The film can feel televisual at times, but with an excellent soundtrack and smart performances, Saipan is an entertaining film whether viewers are familiar with the saga or not.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the clash of personalities in Saipan. Do you think Roy Keane was in the right, or Mick McCarthy, or did both have valid points? How might their conflict have been better resolved?
Discuss the strong language used in the movie. What did it contribute to the movie? Is a certain kind of language expected in a movie like this?
How was drinking depicted in the film? Was it glamorized? Why does that matter?
Movie Details
- In theaters : March 13, 2026
- Cast : Éanna Hardwicke , Steve Coogan , Alice Lowe
- Directors : Glenn Leyburn , Lisa Barros D'Sa
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Director(s) , Multiracial Movie Director(s) , Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Sunrise Films
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Competition , History ( Biopic ) , Sports ( Soccer )
- Run time : 91 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : March 25, 2026
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