Review of George Best: Best Intentions

Introduction

George Best was arguably the most naturally gifted British footballer of modern times. After arriving in England from his home country Ireland, he joined Manchester United where he shone under the direction of the late Sir Matt Busby. His career peaked in the mid-60`s, culminating in the club`s 1968 European Championship triumph, in which Best was a key element in the winning side. That year also saw him win both the European and English Footballer of the Year awards and his goal scoring abilities put him top of the First Division with a total of 28 goals that season.

His popularity subsequently skyrocketed and there followed a multitude of television appearances, guest spots, interviews and a sizeable assortment of female admirers. During this time, Best never really looked comfortable and unfortunately, unable to cope with the goldfish-bowl environment he found himself in, his game began to suffer. His goal rate dropped, personal problems increased and his fellow footballers and fans lost faith. He attempted a number of comebacks during the 70’s, including a stint in the USA and at Fulham, but he was never able to restore his golden touch.

From a player who could command respect in virtually all positions on the pitch with his now legendary skill and speed, Best is probably now better known for his extravagant lifestyle, complete with the obligatory failed marriage, single child and booze.

This DVD sets out to tell the true story of George Best, from his humble beginnings to his European successes and eventual alcoholism, depression and ultimately his recent hospitalisation.

Video

I wasn`t expecting a great deal from this title, and wasn`t disappointed. Although quite adequate for this style of film, the picture was at times grainy and noticeable artifacting was present. However, screen colours were good and the general filming was of reasonable quality.

Audio

Obviously not really designed to challenge your surround set-up, the vocals were clear and well defined. Quite adequate, given the subject matter.

Features

No extras to mention, except for direct chapter access (which I never view as an extra anyway).

Conclusion

It is quite obvious that George Best was totally incapable of dealing with the huge amount of publicity thrown at him after his 1968 successes. To hear first hand from Best about his career and its premature end is interesting and at times quite moving. It is obvious that he considers it truly amazing that he is still alive today.

I do not claim to be any kind of football fan, but watching the footage from his career on this disk, I can appreciate Best`s amazing talent. His command of the game was extraordinary and it seems that a brilliant talent was wasted by the trappings of success. Interviews with key players such as Sir Bobby Charlton, Denis Law and Jimmy Greaves reinforce this view and make it even sadder that his career ended in the way it did. It is worth mentioning at this point that some of the interviews were conducted some time ago as they talk of transfer fees being high at £1 million and Maradonna still playing. The points they raise, although somewhat out of date, are still interesting and valid however.

The biggest revelation was that Best`s career could (and should) have extended way past the time it ended and practically all the guests interviewed hold Best in the highest respect and rank him as one of the world’s best ever footballers. Recently, Best has made a name for himself as a very successful after-dinner speaker and sell-out audiences listen to his footballing stories. Best himself admits that his will never be entirely free from the alcohol problems that plagued his career, and one can only wonder on what might have been.