Netflix's Beckham review: The docu-series captures the fascinating story of Posh and Becks surviving celebrityhood

David Beckham is a celebrity who needs no introduction to anyone. His wife, Victoria, famously known as Posh Spice from her days with the Spice Girls, is equally recognizable. For over three decades, their images have been a constant presence in the media, making them stars for those born after the onset of the millennium and establishing them as permanent global celebrities.

To witness Beckham’s hobby as a beekeeper is a surprising introduction to a docu-series about his life. Directed by Fisher Stevens, known for his role as Hugo in the HBO series Succession, it adds an amused yet authentic touch. This will be a personal viewing experience.

David Beckham, a working-class boy who rose to prominence in the highly competitive world of UK football, faced adulation and criticism from countless people. This docu-series highlights the unwavering determination that has defined him through ups and downs. Stevens manages to bring in an amused yet admiring tone to his questions off camera, placing the viewer like a participant in his story.

Posh and Becks were darlings of the tabloid press and also targets of incessant media scrutiny, depending on the media’s mood. They set aspirational standards for couples everywhere. Posh’s look, lean and tanned, inspired celebrity wives in India. Her make-up was copied by most star wives of Bollywood for quite some time, turning up amusing results at times. While Beckham’s hairstyle was emulated by boys and his line of male grooming products became hotstellers in Europe upon launch- one of his successful business ventures after football.

This docu-series provides an intimate look into David Beckham’s inner world. Beckham’s kitchen appears as if no one has ever cooked in it. He reveals he has made an elaborate meal just the night before, but cleaned it afterwards. it is kept sparkling clean, with meticulous attention to detail, including cleaning off candle remains and trimming candle wicks. Each chair and table is perfectly in place. It is tiring, he admits self depreciatingly. With Posh in the background, being witty and irreverent like she always is. Beckham’s commitment to perfection, whether in his game or personal life, is evident, showing that his pursuit of excellence goes beyond public relations. Both were shy kids in school, desperate to make a friend. Both were drawn to each other because of their strong personalities.

Stevens skilfully captures the invasive nature of celebrityhood. Beckham’s decision to date a fellow celebrity rather than a girl next door strained his relationship with Alex Ferguson, the legendary manager of Manchester United. Glenn Hoddle, an icon he idolized as a child and the manager of the England team, publicly blamed him for the team’s loss in the World Cup match against Argentina, which resulted in a red card. This incident triggered a torrent of public anger and humiliation. Beckham endured jeers from the crowd when he stepped onto the field, while his girlfriend, also the mother of their son Brooklyn, faced derogatory chants in the stands. British football fans are infamous for their hostility, and Beckham and his family bore the brunt of it. Nevertheless, he never retaliated and rebuilt his reputation through his on-field achievements. His football peers and managers speak candidly about Beckham’s challenges and triumphs, underlining the respect he commands within his own community. Teammates like Roy Keane, Eric Cantona, and Gary Neville provide honest accounts of his love story and his unwavering focus on the game. Paul Scholes and Paul Ince shed light on surviving the World Cup training and matches amidst Hoddle’s hostility toward Beckham.

The documentary illustrates how celebrities, elevated to godlike status, can easily be brought down by the same public that adores them, as evidenced by Beckham’s red card moment in the 1998 World Cup match. Diego Simeone, who played the victim in this emotionally charged match, humorously comments that he believed the red card was an overreaction, as it was clear he had exaggerated his fall. Would the referee have been as strict had it not been Beckham? Would the UK and its coach have blamed another player for the loss?

Stevens keeps football at the heart of this docu-series, highlighting the intense focus Ted Beckham, David’s father, had on his son’s career. In a manner, the same unwavering determination is visible in the fathers of the Williams sisters and Tiger Woods. Besides his closeness with his parents, Beckham’s relationship with Victoria comes across as genuine. The discussion touches on alleged extramarital affairs, with both addressing the topic without giving a direct answer.

The bottom line is that despite living under relentless public scrutiny, they have stayed together and built a thriving business empire. They are comfortable being British and living in a country that has bestowed both immense love and hatred upon them. Victoria candidly mentions Beckham’s battle with depression after the World Cup loss, which he overcame through dedication to his game rather than seeking treatment. Their journey reflects the challenges that come with surviving celebrity status, yet Beckham not only survived but thrived.

In recent times, topics like mental health, depression, and coping with modern life have gained prominence. Stevens chronicles the story of a sportsman and those close to him from a different era, highlighting the importance of resilience and focus in achieving unparalleled success. Beckham’s story masterfully illustrates the art of standing up and fighting back without making a noise.

Beckham is streaming on Netflix

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