Dror Erez

Tatami (2023) drops you right into the gritty, high-pressure world of international judo, but honestly, it’s about way more than just sports. The film zooms in on Iranian judoka Leila and her coach Maryam, who find themselves smack in the middle of a political firestorm during a high-stakes championship. Leila’s busting her butt to compete, but suddenly, the officials demand she throw her match—because facing an Israeli opponent is apparently not allowed back home. So now it’s not just about medals or pride. It’s about survival, loyalty, and the stuff that makes you question everything you thought you stood for. The tension’s insane. You’ve got the judo mat, bright lights, and the weight of two nations pressing down. It’s claustrophobic—like you can barely breathe when Leila’s forced to choose between her dreams and her country’s oppressive politics. Maryam’s not just a coach; she’s a mother figure, fierce and protective, but she’s also trapped by her own fears and hopes for Leila. The whole thing feels raw, personal, and honestly, kind of heartbreaking. Every whispered conversation, every glance—they’re not just fighting opponents, they’re fighting a system that wants to erase them. What’s wild is how the film never lets up. The stakes keep climbing. Even if you don’t care about judo, it’s impossible not to get sucked into Leila and Maryam’s struggle. It’s a gut-punch of a story about courage, defiance, and the price you pay for just wanting to be yourself.