The life of Diego Maradona is often portrayed as a cautionary tale of fame and addiction, but the new documentary by Asif Kapadia offers a different perspective. Instead of relying on interviews with experts, the film uses archival footage and photographs to tell Maradona’s story. Through these visuals, we are immersed in his chaotic and hectic life, experiencing the pressure of celebrity firsthand.
The documentary focuses mainly on Maradona’s time in Naples, where he was worshipped by the locals and compared to a deity. Despite his humble beginnings in Argentina, where he supported his family from a young age, Maradona quickly became consumed by his fame. His descent into drug addiction and subsequent downfall is portrayed as both tragic and merciless. Fernando Signorini, Maradona’s trainer, describes his life as both extraordinary and tragic.
In Naples, Maradona was seen as a rebel, a cheat, a hero, a god, and eventually, a disgrace. The documentary captures the complexity of his character and the intense pressures he faced both on and off the field. It is not just a tale of success and failure but also a cautionary tale about the destructive power of fame and addiction.
Overall, Asif Kapadia’s documentary about Diego Maradona offers an intimate look at one of the greatest soccer players in history. Through its use of archival footage and photographs, it immerses us in Maradona’s chaotic life while highlighting both his triumphs and struggles.
