JIFF: Tatami

The Story

Australian Premiere

“Searing Iranian-Israeli sports drama delivers timely punch.” - The Hollywood Reporter

“A masterpiece…Tatami is about the willingness to stand up to coercion no matter the cost.” - PopMatters

Iranian female judo fighter Leila and coach Maryam travel to the Judo World Championship, intent on bringing home Iran’s first gold medal. Midway through the competition, they receive an ultimatum from the Islamic Republic. Rather than risk competing against an Israeli athlete, Leila must fake an injury and lose, or she will be branded a traitor of the state.

With her own and her family’s freedom at stake, Leila is faced with an impossible choice: comply with the Iranian regime, as her coach Maryam implores her to, or fight on for the gold.

Premiering to critical acclaim at the Venice International Film Festival, Tatami is historic for being the first film co-directed by an Israeli and an Iranian filmmaker. Set over the course of one nail-biting day at the world championship, this is both a riveting sports drama and a searing political thriller.

Festivals and Awards
Winner - Brian Award, Venice International Film Festival, 2023

Rating

M

Duration

103 min

Cast

Arienne Mandi, Zar Amir Ebrahimi, Jaime Ray Newman, Nadine Marshall, Lir Katz, Ash Goldeh

Director

Zar Amir Ebrahimi, Guy Nattiv