The term “underdog” doesn’t begin to describe Banana, a socially awkward, chubby teen with an unfortunate nickname that comes from his curved foot and clumsy soccer skills. Even so, Banana will stop at nothing to get the girl of his dreams-even if it means bumbling his way through a series of awkward missteps. Equipped with a life philosophy based on the principles of his favorite sport, soccer, he is determined to stay in attack mode until his efforts are rewarded. And his dreams of getting to know the girl he desires may finally be within reach when he strikes upon a plan to become her tutor. Like a John Hughes film crossed with “Rushmore,” this Italian coming-of-age comedy about going to great lengths in the name of love is endlessly charming.
