“Tatami”, interview with directors Guy Nattiv and Zar Amir

September 2, 2023

Guy Nattiv and Zar Amir Take Us Behind the Scenes of "Tatami," the Film that Chronicles the Journey of Iranian Judokas Leila and Maryam as They Defy Fate.

"Tatami", interview with directors Guy Nattiv and Zar Amir Laura Della Corte

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At the grand stage of the 80th International Venice Film Festival, where cinematic brilliance converges from around the world, one film stood out with a powerful message transcending borders and politics. “Tatami,” co-directed by Guy Nattiv and Zar Amir, in the section Orizzonti, is a remarkable testament to the strength of human spirit and the unifying power of art. In this exclusive interview, Fred Film Radio delves deep into the minds of these visionary directors, unraveling the story behind the film that has captivated audiences and critics alike.

Courage, sacrifice, and defiance: “Tatami’s” gripping journey

“Tatami” takes us on a gripping journey into the world of Iranian judo, a sport that serves as the backdrop for a tale of courage, sacrifice, and defiance. The film centers around Leila (portrayed by Mandi), a talented judoka, and her coach Maryam (portrayed by Amir). Their dream? To bring home Iran’s first gold medal from the Judo World Championships.

A heart-wrenching dilemma: compliance or courage?

However, as the championship unfolds, the Iranian regime throws a daunting ultimatum their way. Leila must fake an injury and intentionally lose her match, or face the dire consequences of being labeled a traitor to the state. In a society where every decision is weighted with profound implications, Leila finds herself at a crossroads with her family’s freedom and her own destiny hanging in the balance. It’s a heart-wrenching dilemma that forces her to make an impossible choice: comply with the Iranian regime’s demands, as passionately urged by her coach Maryam, or courageously battle on for the coveted gold medal.

“Tatami’s” unprecedented collaboration

What sets “Tatami” apart is not just its compelling storyline but the fact that it’s the first feature film to be co-directed by an Iranian and an Israeli filmmaker. This groundbreaking collaboration transcends political boundaries and illustrates the extraordinary power of art to bridge divides.

In a poignant statement, the directors Guy Nattiv and Zar Amir reflect on the underlying message of “Tatami.” They highlight the fact that the Iranian government, in recent decades, has actively worked to keep Iranians and Israelis from meeting each other at international events, disregarding the genuine sentiments of individuals. Despite these barriers, Nattiv and Amir found a way to come together and tell a story that epitomizes the courage of Iranian athletes who risk everything for freedom.

Their journey to make this film took them to the heart of Georgia, in Tbilisi, just two hours away from the politically charged cities of Tel Aviv and Tehran. Here, they discovered a profound connection, not as representatives of their nations but as artists sharing a common passion for storytelling through cinema. It was a revelation that highlighted the striking similarities between the two cultures, showing that, in the realm of art, there are no borders.

A message beyond borders: the power of art and humanity

Guy Nattiv and Zar Amir firmly believe that art is the voice of reason amidst the chaos of the world. Their choice to depict the struggles of artists and athletes who were forced to relinquish their dreams due to political conflicts and oppressive regimes speaks to the universal human experience. They hope that “Tatami” will serve as a testament to the enduring power of humanity and collaboration in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, this artistic and cinematographic collaboration between an Iranian and an Israeli filmmaker is not just a tribute to the artists and athletes featured in the film but to all those who strive to look beyond the barriers of hatred and conflict. “Tatami” stands as a symbol of what can be achieved when individuals come together to build a better future, despite the odds.

Plot

Midway through the Judo World Championships, Iranian female judo fighter Leila and her coach Maryam receive an ultimatum from the Islamic Republic ordering Leila to fake an injury and lose, lest she 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 do, or fight on, for the gold. Tatami is the first feature film to be co-directed by an Iranian and an Israeli filmmaker.

Written by: Laura Della Corte

Mostra del Cinema di Venezia

Guest

Guy Nattiv Zar Amir

Film

Tatami

Festival