Archive · 15 Jun 2025
Sports Drama 'Tatami' Opens in NYC as Middle East Tensions Rise
Imagine a movie about an Iranian judo athlete named Leila.
Her government wants her to lose a match against an Israeli athlete.
The movie is called "Tatami" and was made by directors from both countries, which is unusual!
It's like a story about sports, but it also touches on some real-world issues.
The movie is inspired by brave female athletes from Iran who had to leave their home country.
The movie is out in theaters and has been winning awards and good reviews.
Other movies like "The Phoenician Scheme" and "The Life of Chuck" are also in theaters.
“Tatami,” a sports drama co-directed by an Israeli and an Iranian, opens in New York amidst escalating conflict.
The film follows an Iranian judo athlete facing political pressure to withdraw from a competition against an Israeli rival.
Inspired by real-life stories of exiled Iranian female athletes, the film was shot in Tbilisi in 2022.
The film opened to $16.2k at the IFC Center in New York and is expanding to other theaters.
“Tatami” premiered at Venice and has won awards at several film festivals, holding a 90% critic rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
- Who
- “Tatami” is co-directed by Israeli Guy Nattiv and Iranian Zar Amir Ebrahimi and stars Adrienne Mandi.
- What
- The opening of the film “Tatami”, a sports drama.
- When
- The film opened recently.
- Where
- The film opened in New York at the IFC Center and is expanding.
- Why
- The film's release coincides with increased tensions between Israel and Iran, offering a message of unity.
Filmmakers' Stance
N/A
Message of the Film
Filmmakers' Stance
The film aims to speak "judo, not hatred," promoting understanding and empathy.
N/A
N/A
- Film Title
- Tatami
- Directors
- Guy Nattiv, Zar Amir Ebrahimi
- Starring
- Adrienne Mandi, Zar Amir Ebrahimi
- Opening Weekend Gross
- $16.2k
- Location
- IFC Center, New York
- Rotten Tomatoes Score
- 90%