Grace Gamm Theater

Directed by Guy Nattiv and Zar Amir

Starring Arienne Mandi, Zar Amir

Israel/Farsi with subtitles/2025/105 min

Important and timely, the first feature film to be co-directed by an Iranian and an Israeli filmmaker is both a stunning sports drama and a suspenseful political thriller. At the World Judo Championships, a female Iranian judoka is willing to risk all to win the gold medal, even if it means defying the Supreme Leader. Filmed in black and white and featuring striking cinematography, this tense drama is loosely based on a shocking international incident. It showcases the resilience of Iranian women seeking self-determination, the cost of defying an oppressive regime, and the flagrant antisemitism that finds its way into international sports. Oscar-winning Israeli director Guy Nattiv (“Skin”) teamed with Iranian refugee filmmaker Zar Amir (Cannes Film Festival Best Actress-Winner for “Holy Spider”), who co-stars in the film as the coach faced with a life-or-death decision.

Sunday, November 2 | 2:30 pm | $18.40

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Trailer