Christian Pulisic‘s new docuseries, now on Paramount+, invites viewers into the orbit of one of American soccer’s most discussed figures. Cameras follow him as he navigates life at AC Milan, trains for the Derby della Madonnina, and reflects on the pressures of carrying the US Men’s National Team.
Family and teammates provide personal anecdotes that reveal a man who’s naturally shy but fiercely driven when it’s time to perform. He says the show is meant “to make himself more relatable and inspire more kids in America to try to be like him,” though some wonder if it heaps too much praise on a player still building his legacy.
New docuseries on Pulisic pits hype vs reality
A recent review by Hudson River Blue described the series as “a confused attempt to prematurely coronate America’s current biggest soccer star.” It also called the opening installment “Serie A propaganda,” noting that the production comes from CBS Sports, a network with rights to broadcast Italian soccer.
While the series may focus heavily on glamorizing Pulisic’s transfer from England to Italy, it does offer real glimpses into his mindset and personal life. At times, he looks uncomfortable with the spotlight, shifting awkwardly on camera, yet he talks openly about wanting to carry U.S. soccer to new heights.
Critics have compared it to Michael Jordan’s documentary but added, “The Last Dance this is not.” That’s a steep measure for any athlete. Pulisic, 26, is still writing his story. In many ways, the docuseries feels like an early snapshot rather than a retrospective. There are brief moments of candor, including training scenes where language barriers emerge and post-match talks that show his relief after big games. Those scenes suggest that deeper layers exist if the filmmakers choose to show them.
There are nine parts in total, leaving room for the narrative to go beyond simple highlights. Viewers see a future star grappling with the responsibility of inspiring a nation ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Maybe the show will address his evolution, how he’s adapting to Italian culture, or what it means to be the face of a team and a country.
Even though some bits seem promotional, there’s value in observing a young professional forging his path. If the next episodes achieve a more balanced portrayal, they could resonate with a broader audience looking to understand the weight ‘Captain America’ carries.
