The Brisbane Lions have recently been embroiled in a wild controversy over the antics of Netflix documentary filmmakers. Racial tensions among the staff of the organization reached an all-time high. Consequently, AFL staff took over creative control of the production. Chris Fagan, head coach of the Lions, let his feelings be known, saying he was “absolutely filthy” about how it all played out.
The documentary series, which follows Australia’s federation of American Football as they compete in the Australian Rules Football, largely hopes to explain the game at its core. There was a big problem with respect to the players’ involvement – specifically regarding Touk Miller’s intended participation. This displeasure with how many players were allowed to participate prompted meetings between important decision-makers in the franchise’s front office.
As noted by Caroline Wilson, one of Australia’s most respected and acerbic sports columnists, at her recent recording for The Agenda Setters, she recognized that it was time for AFL chiefs to step in. The production crew was having an outsized impact on team dynamics.
“AFL staff themselves have now gone on the road with this production crew because they have ruffled feathers.” – Caroline Wilson
The Brisbane Lions are actually based on the Gold Coast. Few regions have been tested more than this one when it comes to sports controversies. The decision to give filmmakers such access to the team has sparked fierce disputes over player privacy and consent. Fans are frustrated, wondering how you derive the exposure you’re seeking without selling out the integrity of the club.
Danny Daly, Brisbane’s football manager, was said to have led the negotiations to quell fears over player participation. These conversations are a reflection of the deepening consciousness within the organization about what could happen if this documentary lands the wrong way.
The Netflix series on the Brisbane Lions joins a roster of other sports documentaries available on the platform, including “Tour de France: Unchained” and “Quarterback.” However, past projects like “Break Point,” focusing on tennis, have seen varying levels of success, lasting only a single season.
That production continues to this day. Just how these tensions affect the documentary will be interesting to see, as will the Brisbane Lions’ performance on the field. The organization is now navigating a complex landscape of media exposure while striving to maintain its core values and team cohesion.
