Tatami (2023) Movie Script

1
A very big welcome to this
WJA World Judo Championships
here in Tbilisi, Georgia.
This unique city located at the
crossroads of Europe and Asia
plays host to this
World Judo Championships
at the Tbilisi Sports Palace.
And a big 'Hello' to my
co-commentator Chloe Cowen
who will be with me for
all of the judo action today.
And Chloe, we're looking forward
to some great match-ups, aren't we?
Yeah, we certainly are.
I'm delighted to join you, Neil.
This evening, it's the Strong Weight
category - the under 60 Kg.
Leila!
- Hi
- Hi
- How are you?
- I'm good. How are you?
Good! Good!
I thought maybe I will see
you in Budapest or Vienna.
Oh, yeah, I know.
I needed more time
for this fucking knee to heal
- Yes, I know this feeling.
- Yes.
How is your little boy doing? Right?
Yes, yes, he is very good.
Thank you.
He is with my husband right now.
They are watching from home.
- Good, good... nice.
- Yeah.
And...
Your boyfriend?
- No... Yeah, no...
- I forgot his name.
It's over. It's over, actually.
Oh, it's done?
Yeah, it's all good.
It just didn't work with all my
scheduling and travelling, and...
Yes, I...
You know, I think maybe you
will find someone who is...
- understands this crazy life, yes.
- I hope so.
Yeah...
OK. I'll let you get ready.
Very nice to see you.
You as well, yes.
Good luck tonight.
Same.
Well... she's got to be
one the favourites for sure.
She's on the opposite side of the draw.
Guys! It's Leila!
Hello there!
- Leila!
- Hi Leila!
Hey, Leila!
- Say 'hi' to mama!
- Mama!
Hi, sweetheart!
- Leila!
- We're all at Justina's.
Leila! Listen! Leila!
- Say it!
- The medal is in your pocket already!
Leila!
Did you listen to the tracks I sent you?
Of course, I did.
They're all in my head right now.
That's my girl!
Listen, we'll all beat you up
if you don't come back with a medal!
Thank you, guys
for being there for Nader and Amir.
I've got to go now. Love you all!
I'll hand over the phone to Nader.
Bye! Break a leg!
Nader, send me good vibes.
Talk to you later.
- Cheers!
- We're all with you.
Love you, sweetheart.
Good luck!
I love you.
Bye!
60.3 kg.
How long does she have to make 60?
You have 20 minutes.
- 59.8 kg.
- Yes!
Thank you.
You'll pounce on every
opportunity she gives you to attack.
You control the pace of
the match. You're the boss.
Don't forget about the arm.
Use her arm as a lever.
Then lock your hand behind her arm.
Work hard.
You're 10 times stronger than her.
Deep breath.
Next on Tatami 1!
In the white -
from the Islamic Republic of Iran
Hosseini.
In the blue - from Hungary
Kovac.
On Tatami 2
In the white - from Israel
Lavi.
In the blue - from Turkey
Hessin.
Here they come.
Hosseini is first one out.
And Kovac is following.
Shani Lavi, also
coming out for her first-round match.
And here we go.
This World Championship well and truly...
underway.
This is gonna be a great match.
It really is important as well.
Our first match-up,
and it's the opener.
Yeah. Well, it's gonna be a straight
knockout, so whoever wins this
is gonna have a chance to go through.
Lose, well, it's all finished.
And that's it, it's going
to be all over for her.
How important is it with the grips here?
Now she's got the sleeve.
Open up your collar!
The arm over the top there.
And that's how she comes
in for her big Uchi Mata.
She's got great technique, Hosseini.
She's got the grip.
And look at that!
Great technique! Look at that!
Uchi Mata!
What an Uchi Mata that was!
Brilliant stuff from Hosseini!
And well, Kovac cannot believe it.
Her World Championship is all over.
Yeah, the Hungarian there,
really... it was...
It was gonna be close when we
looked at them coming through
You know, it could have gone either way.
But Hosseini of Iran,
well, she's on fire.
Absolutely, it was all in the
body language, wasn't it?
She came out. She took the sleeve.
She took in the lapel.
And the high lapel grip
there just led her into that.
That was amazing!
Nice job!
That was great!
I'm sure I'll beat her.
I've got a different feeling today.
Obviously!
None of them are a match for you.
We can make history today.
Don't forget to drink water.
You haven't taken in enough fluids today.
Yes, ma'am!
That was the right attitude.
You should constantly attack them.
Keep moving.
You should move around all the time.
The pace is everything.
Pace, movement, attack!
Yes, ma'am!
- Relax.
- OK.
Take a deep breath.
Well done! You were great!
- You were fantastic!
- Thanks.
Time to warm up.
You're perfect on the ground.
Leila, Leila, it's Nader on the phone -
Do you want me to tell him to call later?
No, let me talk to him for a minute.
Thanks.
Excuse me.
- Hey, babe.
- Hello, my life.
You were just amazing!
This was just the first round.
But keep praying for me!
I've got a great feeling, Nader.
I'm all for your good feelings, sweetie.
Everyone is so excited here.
- More friends are coming soon.
- Really?
- Let me see them!
- Hold on!
- Can you see everyone?
- Hello!
Wow, you guys are having a good time!
Where is Amir? Is he still up?
Poor boy fell asleep.
I'm sure he'll watch each one of your
matches a thousand times tomorrow.
- Any news of mom and dad?
- Yeah.
They're sitting in front of the TV as well
Don't worry about it, Leila.
Everyone is watching you!
Just focus on what you have coming up.
All right, fine.
Take care, my love.
I will. Kiss them all for me!
- Love you.
- Bye.
Next on Tatami 1!
In the white
Gauthier of France then in white
and Hosseini in blue, this time.
Well, this is gonna be a
tough match for Hosseini of Iran.
We know Gauthier of France
is one of the favorites coming
into this World Championships.
Yeah, it's gonna be all about the grips
and, well, whether Hosseini
can change the flank...
she'll be expecting that
Uchi Mata won't she, Gauthier...
Get the back of her neck, Leila!
Maryam Ghanbari there
has been Leila Hosseini's coach...
From... well, just a young girl.
And she has been with
her every step of the way.
Top fighter herself...
and had to retire through injury
That was really tragic.
Because she was all set for
big, big things.
Don't give up! Don't you dare, Leila!
All of her power going into coaching
one of the bright stars, Leila Hosseini.
She looks really determined
Yes, that's the spirit!
Absolutely focused.
I don't think I've ever
seen her as focused.
She got the sleeve
Got the lapel!
Is she gonna change the direction?
Get her collar, Leila!
Yeah. Well, she's getting some good
support there from her coach.
And that's what's important
for her to stay focused.
She has a plan so she
knows where she's going.
That's what it's about, isn't it.
It's all about the plan.
Now...
Go on! You've got this!
Break her guard! Break her guard!
Move around!
Careful with the instructions there...
Now she is set up.
What's gonna happen from here?
She's all yours! Yes!
Get her good!
Yes!
What a change of direction!
Sasae Tsurikomi Ashi!
What a great technique that was!
Incredible, Neil.
Absolutely perfectly timed.
She can't believe it.
She fainted one way.
She almost thought
the Uchi Mata was gonna come.
She'd been watching
that first round match.
And then, all of a sudden
she changes the direction.
And that puts her through
to fight Fortier in the next round.
Well, incredible performance
there from Hosseini
and I can't wait to
see how she gets on now.
On the other match as well...
Lavi is making her way through.
Great stuff there from Lavi.
Yeah, I just think
it's incredible. I mean...
I didn't expect Hosseini to win
that one. But she is on fire today.
You were great! Next time
you get stuck in that position...
- Just give the opponent a shock and...
- They're trying to contact you.
- We're talking here.
- It's Mr. Taheri. It's urgent!
- Go straight for...
- Can you talk to him? He says it's urgent
- I'll be right with you.
- OK.
- Hi, Mr. Taheri. How do you do?
- Wonderful.
With the kind of start you had.
- Yes, it's going great.
- Fantastic!
She says it herself.
She's got a great feeling today.
Well, I've only got a few minutes.
We've got the third round coming up.
- Well, there's an important matter...
- Yes?
I'm sure you'll help us deal with it.
The fact that Mrs. Hosseini's
got a great chance today...
is unfortunately
a tad concerning as well.
Why is that?
You know the rules yourself, ma'am.
I'm not sure I follow, sir.
- She should withdraw.
- Why now?
- The odds of facing the Occupying Regime!
- But why now?
Because there's a chance
she might face Shani Lavi.
You can't expect this now!
She's about to win a medal this evening!
Ms. Ghanbari!
Do you realize how long she's
trained for this championship?
It could be due to an injury.
She's gonna get you
a gold medal! It's not about her...
or the team anymore.
It's about our entire nation!
For our government,
she should sit this one out.
- All eyes are on her now.
- You can't expect this!
Stop arguing with me, Ms. Ghanbari!
We expect your cooperation.
She'll get out of the
tournament if she gets injured.
There is always the next
competition for her to look forward to.
- I'm sorry, Mr .Taheri, but...
- Stop it!
- Will you listen to me for a minute?
- Wait for our next instructions.
Just hear me out, sir!
- I said 'Stop her'!
- Hello?
Hello?!
Moron!
We're here to see off our
Women's National Judo who are heading towards
the World Championships.
I take this opportunity
to invite our captain,
Mrs. Leila Hosseini,
to join me on stage.
Thank you, Minister Sadeghi, and thanks
to the Head of our Association, Mr. Taheri
First of all, I'd like to invite all
of my teammates to join me up here.
Zahra Rashidi.
Mina Katesari.
Mitra Rahbar.
Negar Hashemi.
And also our brilliant
coach, Ms. Ghanbari,
who is a real role model for us.
Is everything all right?
- Focus on your work.
- Sure.
Good.
Remember! On the ground or on
your feet you should get to her hand.
She can't do anything with just one hand.
Hold onto one of her hands at all times.
Don't give her a Shimo though.
Or a Kansetsu-Waza.
Be active!
She shouldn't get to your waist.
Don't let her get her guard up.
If she does, be more active.
You should bring her guard down.
Manage the match.
It's all in your hands.
You're on top.
Just don't go for her right hand.
Only the left hand...
She's yours!
Next on Tatami 1!
In the white -
from the Islamic Republic of Iran
Hosseini.
And in the blue - from Canada
Fortier.
Well, she's got her
work cut out this fight.
I can tell you, Fortier of Canada...
So physically strong.
I mean, she really is a unit.
And well, you can see here
big advice on the way out there.
And she's gonna need every little bit
of her tactics here to win this match.
Yeah, Fortier of Canada
for me she is the favorite.
And although she might be smaller
in height, she's definitely stronger.
- Sleeve! Sleeve!
- Hosseini is on a good run.
She's had two Ippon wins.
Get your sleeve out!
And now...
she's trying to get through...
- 'MATE'
- into the next round...
Remember - if you lose
at this stage it's all over.
But look at that concentration!
Don't let her lock you!
Look at this lady here -
Fortier of Canada.
They'll have to grip up.
If they don't grip up...
Then there's the
possibility of penalties.
If she stands any chance here,
it's gonna be to go to ground.
Now then!
She's got a great chance here!
She's gonna go for the Juji-gatame!
Is she locked on?
- Go on! Go on!
- Yes I think she is locked on!
And now it's all about getting
the head to go in the opposite direction.
She is hooked into the arm...
Can she get it out straight.
It's all about applying
pressure to that arm!
It's looking good, Neil. I don't know how
long the referee is gonna leave this for.
Wow, it's all about keeping it going here.
She's got the arm out straight.
And she did get submission!
Hosseini has taken out Fortier...
You were fantastic! Well done!
I'm guaranteed a medal now!
I knew I could beat her!
I told you this is my championship!
Don't worry! I won't let you down!
Ms. Ghanbari,
your phone keeps ringing.
- You didn't answer, did you?
- No, it'd be best if you answered it.
Thanks!
You did well!
Ghanbari, what's going on over there?
Stop this nonsense!
Or else you'll pay for this.
Seems like you didn't get it,
Hosseini has to drop out of the
competition as soon as possible!
Don't let it get too...
What a moron!
Leila. We need to talk.
Come.
They called from the Association.
They've ordered us to withdraw
from the rest of the competition.
What does that mean?
That I have to withdraw?
They don't want you to
face Shani in the final.
I did my best to change their mind
but we can't ignore their demand.
They want you to withdraw early,
even if it means losing gold in the final.
Who exactly called you?
Does it make any difference?
Taheri and a few other people.
What are the odds of me and Shani
facing each other in the final?
She might not even get to the final.
I know it's gonna happen, Leila.
Don't think it's easy for me.
I'm just as disappointed as you are.
I'm not disappointed at all.
Because I'm not gonna withdraw
for no reason.
I'm not gonna pretend I'm injured or
intentionally lose a match. Never!
But we should run it by
the Association before every match.
You know we need to
ask for their permission.
I don't care about
the Iranian Association.
I only believe in the WJA!
It was not a suggestion.
You can't argue about this.
- They won't give in!
- I won't either!
We've had enough of this shit.
What do you think your
stubbornness will fix?
Watch me!
You can't disagree with this, Leila!
Leila!
Leila!
I'm talking to you, Leila!
Hello? Maryam?
I know you're listening.
Aren't you ashamed of yourself?
What did I do to deserve
a stupid daughter like you?
I've always said that
this job was not for you.
End this mess and come back.
Or else you'll have
to forget about me.
I've had enough of this mess...
How is my champion doing?
Leila! Leila!
Leila! Leila! Leila! Leila!
You can't believe
what's going on in here.
With every match you win,
the entire flat erupts!
I can't hear you well.
Go somewhere quiet.
I need to talk to you.
Something the matter?
Do it now!
- I'll be right back, guys.
- Sure.
You're making me worried.
Is everything all right?
Taheri has called Ghanbari.
They want me to
withdraw to avoid facing Shani.
What?
Direct order from the
Supreme Leader's Office.
Those fucking bastards!
Look, I won't let them
play with me anymore.
This time is different.
I don't want to fight for
those shitheads anymore.
You're right.
But if I win the next round,
they'll come after you and Amir!
Be careful, Nader.
They could be nearby right now.
There's a car across the street.
Damn it!
You know what to do, right?
We'll leave town for now.
I'll make sure no one follows us.
Don't worry.
Don't tell anyone for now.
Justina and Jamin will help me.
Tell mom and dad to go to a hotel,
or some safe place for now.
You just focus on the
next round, my love.
I'll keep an eye on
everything here, OK?
We'll find a way together.
It's going to be fine, isn't it?
Yes, of course.
We'll figure it out.
Don't worry.
I should have never
given you so much value.
You don't deserve to be
the national team's coach!
You don't have the guts
to even manage your team!
Mr. Taheri,
With all due respect, sir, but I've got
to tell you that she won't listen to me.
I'm doing my best, sir.
But I can't promise you anything.
- She's being so stubborn!
- Ghanbari!
Stop looking for excuses!
You'll answer to the President
and the Supreme Leader as well?
- Yes, sir.
- This is your final chance!
Leila.
The situation is really critical.
You can't just do whatever you want.
It's turning into a full crisis mode.
I won't let anyone take
away my chance to win gold.
Which side are you on?
Don't start again.
They won't let this go.
My phone won't stop ringing!
It's not about Taheri or
the Association anymore.
It's the President's office now!
I'm going to fight this to the end.
Are you with me or what?
Why don't you get it?
We're representing Iran here.
We should obey the rules.
Do you think I'm an idiot?
- I know what you're doing!
- What do you mean?
You promised them this while
we were still in Iran, didn't you?
Don't be delusional.
They called me just now.
You promised me,
we wouldn't repeat Baku here.
We're here for the gold medal today.
I wish we could make
the final decision too.
But we're representing Iran.
We don't get to make these decisions.
You just lied to my face!
What lie? Stop bullshitting!
Damnit!
I can't just think about you.
We've got families and they
are threatening our families now!
You're putting everyone in danger!
I have an old mother!
I know! And I have a child!
But the power is in our hands now.
We've got the media.
The WJA is behind us.
The entire world will back us up.
The only reason they're threatening
us now is because they're scared!
Think about your future opportunities!
You've got several grand slams
and the Tokyo Games ahead.
You're wasting years of hard work.
You're burning all
the bridges behind you!
You're endangering your family!
For what?
A stupid Israeli girl!
Remember what happened that year?
The World Championships in Seoul?
Why did you withdraw?
They put a cast on your healthy leg
to prevent you from facing Arad.
You were this close to
a world championship.
Everyone thought you were injured
but you were only acting
injured to not get in trouble.
My bedroom walls were
filled with your photos when I was a kid!
I cried for weeks when
you got injured.
I wish I didn't!
I was really injured!
Why would I never fight again after that?
This is what they've
told you to feed us, right?
You accepted that to become
the National Team's head coach!
Such disrespect.
How dare you speak to me like that!
I'm coming down.
Stupid girl!
I just realized that you are nothing!
How long are you going to wait
for them to throw you a bone?
Shut up!
Don't touch me!
You're not my responsibility anymore!
- Piece of shit!
- Get lost!
Next, on Tatami 1!
In the white -
from the Islamic Republic of Iran
Hosseini.
And in the blue - from Brazil
current World Champion
Fernandes.
World Champion, Fernandes
Any chance of winning
the World Championships for Iran...
- Hi Boris.
- Hi.
And the current world
champion Fernandes...
Wow, she's looking good as well.
Fernandes is really
piling on the pressure.
And, well, she's got to
get out of there hasn't she?
- Shani, good fight out there.
- Thank you.
- Everything's OK?
- Yes, all good.
And she's got to make sure
that she puts her attacks in first.
And that's the key.
I think that if any chance...
Maryam?
For Hosseini, she's got to make sure
that she goes in first.
- Hi.
- Good to see you.
Leila's looking great out there tonight.
- Yeah.
- Very strong.
Yes.
Is there a problem?
No. Why?
Well, I just noticed that you're
not in the chair with your judoka.
I wonder if everything's OK.
It's a... professional decision.
- Sorry.
- Maryam?
Just to remind you that
if anyone's trying to prevent you
from participating in this tournament
they're in direct breach
of the WJA agreement.
You know that.
Thank you for reminding me.
You know where to find me.
She's absolutely
fighting for her life here.
She's got to make sure that
she is bursting for the attacks...
But the big thing is about the grips.
And, wow, she has to break through
the defense of the world champion.
I noticed that Ghanbari, her coach,
is not out there with her.
And well, I don't know why.
Yeah, well,
it's a tense situation for her.
She really needs to
compose herself here.
Take a breath and
she needs to go again.
Yeah, her head seems
somewhere else, doesn't it?
It's just not the same Hosseini
that we've seen in the earlier rounds.
It's playing a big part here
but this is where she's got to dig in.
Leila! Leila! Leila!
And she's the
first in for the attack.
Now then - she's got
the grip that she wants!
And we've seen a wide variety...
All the tension is
absolutely unbelievable.
Is she gonna change the direction?
She's already thrown big to the
front. She's gone to the ground as well.
She's got it!
She's going for the Juji-gatame.
She needs to take the head
in the opposite direction.
Fighting for her life, isn't she?
She's fighting for her life.
And you can...
Yeah, the Brazilian, for me
she's... really strong.
But she's unpredictable as well.
It's all about pace!
That's her only chance now
to go through to the next round.
Leila! Leila! Leila! Leila!
The referee just stands them up!
Her husband isn't home.
Unbelievable tension
on the fighters face!
Yeah, both of them
they're really exhausted here.
That you lose all that...
- Hosseini?
- Yes?
Get back inside!
Oh! Look at that.
What a Tomoe Nage!
And she absolutely pulled it
out of the bag there.
That was unbelievable.
They look down and out.
Both of them were so so tired...
and she managed to do that one!
Absolutely surprised her opponent there.
And the world champion is
not gonna retain her world title!
That was brilliant from Hosseini.
And that came from nowhere.
Yeah. It came from nowhere, Neil.
But really to knock out the world
champion like that, it was just amazing.
It really could be Iran's night.
Well, it was a surprise attack.
Mrs. Hosseini!
Mrs. Hosseini!
You were wonderful!
Can I take a photo with you?
I'm a huge fan of yours!
Sure.
Well done!
Hi.
Leila!
- Dad?!
- The security agents are here.
Just listen to whatever they say
so neither of us gets in trouble.
What have they done to you? Dad!
Do you understand, sweetheart?
- Even so far...
- You'll pay a price if you don't withdraw.
It's up to you now.
Mrs. Hosseini! Leila Hosseini!
You know what to do now, don't you?
Huh?
Do you?
Don't you?
Yeah, if you could bring me those files
at some point today, that would be great.
Yeah, no, no, no. Just the ones
that we spoke about earlier on today
- One second. Come in.
- Hi.
Iranian National TV just
announced that Hosseini...
I'll call you back.
Leila Hosseini is withdrawing
from the competition.
They cut our live broadcast there.
It's not the first time.
Well, I just saw an altercation
between Leila and her coach.
And then her coach dropped out.
They sent someone from the
Embassy to threaten her. I saw it.
I really think this is becoming
a political situation.
Well, as long as Leila is playing by our
rules, I can't confront them about it.
- Well Madam President -
- They will face an Olympic ban...
if they try to fuck this
up again and they know it.
They could care less
about an Olympic ban.
I'm asking - how do we protect Leila?
What's our strategy here?
Everything goes as planned.
Keep your eyes and ears open.
If things go wrong, update me.
I just did.
Stacy, I have 217 athletes
from 67 countries to deal with.
Focus on getting this show right.
Stop worrying about Hosseini.
I'm telling you she's
getting threats to withdraw.
I heard.
And I'm telling you, we can't officially
offer any help until she asks for it.
That's the protocol.
Fuck protocol.
Stacy!
Shit!
They've been detained.
They want them
to make me turn myself in.
Damn it!
Maryam has given in too.
And the entire team is behind her.
They've got no honour.
What are you gonna do now?
I don't know.
I don't want to put
other people's lives at risk!
You never allow
anyone to bully you!
I know my wife!
But they are telling
the story their way!
They'll blame everything on me.
Leila! Just take a deep breath
and get back on the tatami!
Release all your anger on the mat!
You're a strong woman!
You can do this!
I know it!
You'll crush them all!
Nader.
You know we'll never
be able to go back to Iran.
Maybe, Leila, maybe.
But Amir and I will
always go wherever you go.
Thanks.
- I love you.
- I love you too.
I hate all the useless
chitchat and fake smiles.
Take it easy.
We go to these events and
give them a bit of small talk.
They let us go to the competitions.
We'll win a few medals and come back.
It's in our own best interest.
You mean the flat, the car
and the $50,000 prize
they've promised you?
That's the way it is.
Now can we talk
about more positive stuff?
Who's calling so late?
Damn it!
Hello?
Mrs. Hosseini, I wanted to confirm
tomorrow's schedule with you.
The driver will pick you up
at 6 a.m. Please be ready.
Sure, thank you.
- Bye.
- Excuse me, but I have to ask.
Do you have your husband's
consent for the trip abroad?
I don't want you, God forbid, to have
any problems leaving the country.
- I'm sorry.
- I'm her husband.
If you want to know whether she's barred
from leaving the country, no she's not!
I guarantee that as the national champion
and my wife...
she's got the right to travel.
But we need to make sure she has your
signed consent form with her passport.
Hey!
I'm sorry. Thanks, ma'am. Bye.
What do you think you're doing?
Why are you stirring up shit?
Leila?
I'm Vlad.
My name is Vlad.
WJA medic.
Can I take a look at your
forehead for a second, please?
I'm not allowed.
I need to look at it.
Unless you want to bleed all over
the place and get disqualified.
It's up to you.
So, how did you do this?
Doesn't matter.
Well...
I know how it feels.
One second.
The pain doesn't bother me.
I meant the torture
they're putting you through.
I've been there.
I defected to Canada
from Romania in 1978.
So then, you know my situation.
Yes.
We know about your situation.
The WJA is more
than willing to help you.
I usually don't approach
other athletes like this.
But this is an unofficial message...
I was asked to give to you.
So go and show them.
Good luck, Leila.
Thank you.
My sweet boy!
Are you up, my baby?
Amir?
I'm up!
- I'll be home soon, all right?
- All right.
All right.
Be a good boy and
do what daddy tells you.
- Fine.
- OK?
- OK.
- Look at me!
Look at me.
I'm over here. Right here.
Listen to what daddy says, all right?
- All right.
- All right.
- What did daddy say?
- We're gonna see you on TV.
Yes, sweetheart.
You'll all go to Justina's.
And you'll watch my matches.
You'll all watch my
matches together, all right?
- All right.
- Ahh, my sweet little boy.
- I love you so much.
- Me too.
- Do you love me?
- Yeah.
Then give me a kiss!
Give me a kiss!
I will miss you.
Ms. Ghanbari!
One second.
Where is she?
How did you get in here?
You can't be here.
As you can see...
We can go wherever we want.
I know you need help, and I'm
here to help you solve this issue.
Did you know that my mother
is a fan of yours?
She's been following
you for years now.
You're our national hero.
This girl is just stubborn.
She doesn't know what she's doing.
Don't let her get you in trouble.
You're very experienced.
I'm doing everything I can but
as you can see, she doesn't listen.
That's not our problem.
It's yours.
Think about yourself.
Your family.
Your position should be
much higher than this.
Leila is dead. She's finished.
But I personally guarantee that
you will not get in
any trouble whatsoever.
I trust that you know what to do.
Maryam Ghanbari.
- The Iranian team head coach.
- How can I help?
I need to talk to Stacy Travis.
It's urgent.
One second.
Stacy?
Stacy.
What's going on?
Leila Hosseini has to quit the
competition due to an injury.
I wanted to inform you that I'm
declaring a Fusho-gachi unfortunately.
What kind of injury?
Concussion.
She banged her head in her last fight.
She's bleeding badly.
Interesting, I watched all of
Leila's fights, we all did here.
And I saw no head injury... and we
have detailed footage to back that up.
I'm telling you she's not able to fight.
- It's not a debate. It's an announcement!
- What's really going on here, Maryam?
- I've already told you.
- I can help you.
We can help you more than you think.
I don't need your help.
I need you to respect this
decision and call it right now.
- Is Leila a part of this?
- It's a team decision.
Somebody needs to notify her because
she just stepped out into the tatami.
Leila!
Come out!
Leila!
You need to step out at once! Leila!
Stop this fight.
Leila!
Stop this fight!
Leila!
I know you are in
an impossible situation.
- The WJA wants to help you!
- I'm just asking you to stop this fight.
Leila Hosseini's fight
continues as scheduled.
I need security out
onto the arena immediately.
Schmidt against Hosseini.
And Hosseini this time in white
And...
Well, She's also got
a cut on her forehead.
I don't know
where that came from.
I think it might
have been in training.
Now then, she's gonna have to
get out of there as well.
And you can see clearly here
that her head is not there.
- Yes, I am here. I wanted to...
- The hell with whatever you wanted!
Listen to me! I wanted to...
- You just dug your own grave!
- I got there late!
She's started the match!
There's nothing I can do now!
Just pray to God now
for you and your family!
Mr. Taheri, I did everything I could.
I told the authorities here.
But there's nothing I can do
now that the match is underway.
You've been fucking useless all along.
- Tell her to check her messages!
- Yes, I will.
Or else I don't give a shit about
what happens to either of you.
Well, I think we're all thinking
that now she's got a great chance.
And Schmidt of Germany, of course
she will have been really happy
with her form at the moment.
And she's here.
She sees her chance of getting
through to the final as well.
Now that big Seoi-nage
there from Hosseini.
She wasn't far off there
with that shoulder throw.
Now they are over the back.
Oh! She just takes it down.
She gets a Waza-ari as well.
Well, that was a switch wasn't it?
From the Seoi-nage.
Yeah, Schmidt there, from Germany.
She likes that high hand.
And she, so, goes underneath...
Now she's looking for the Shime-Waza.
Wow, she's got the Shime-Waza
underneath the neck there.
And she is trouble here, Hosseini.
She is in all sorts of trouble.
And if she taps out...
Otherwise, it's all over.
Is the referee gonna say 'MATE'?
Yes she does.
The referee shouts 'MATE'.
And she has another
chance here, Hosseini.
Well, Hosseini did well
to hold that off, but
you know, that can have
an effect on you as well.
Wow, now she's gonna
keep her composure.
Her arm going over the back...
and she really is having
to defend for her life here.
Now then, Makikomi.
She catches the leg
and... Makikomi.
She goes over onto
her back for the Ippon.
I just can not believe...
that she recovered
from that Shime-Waza.
And she got the score, Neil.
Unbelievable.
Wonderful technique, every single match.
That was amazing.
She can't believe it.
Leila.
Hi.
Stacy Travis, good to see you.
You know President Abriel, right?
Congratulations on the win.
Outstanding performance.
Yeah, it was extraordinary. Really.
Do you mind if we talk alone?
It'll only take a minute.
And you'll be back for your next round.
Just in our office upstairs.
You can have a seat.
Before we start
I'm sorry for what you're going through.
We want you to be aware that
you have the full support of WJA.
Thank you.
We've made some quick
arrangements to help you.
Whatever you decide to do.
We're here.
Leila, we need to verify a few things.
'Yes' or 'no' is all we need.
Is it okay if I record our conversation?
Yes.
Thank you.
Is anyone pressuring you
to fake an injury tonight?
Yes.
Have there been threats
made against you?
Yes.
Did you in fact hurt your head
in one of the fights this evening?
No... No.
Your coach, Maryam Ghanbari...
declared your withdrawal from competition.
Were you a part of this decision?
No.
So who's pressuring Maryam?
The... The Iranian Judo Association.
And who's pressuring them?
The Supreme Leader of Iran.
Have you been in contact with your
family since this whole thing started?
Yes.
Stacy has updated me about
everything that's going on.
We all understand
that you're making
the most important and hardest
decision of your life.
Do you wish to continue
competing tonight?
I do. I do.
You might face an Israeli
judoka at some point.
That is not a problem for me.
It has never been a problem.
Stacy and her team
will act accordingly
to secure the legal procedure
for your potential stay...
and make sure that you're escorted
everywhere by a local security.
We'll... figure out the rest.
I am worried about my parents.
They have arrested
them in Tehran...
to punish me.
So...
What can we do?
What can we do
to help you, really?
I don't know.
Coming up for the quarter finals
In the white -
from the Islamic Republic of Iran
Hosseini.
Thank you, Leila.
Step aside please.
- I am her coach.
- No.
- What no? I'm her coach.
- Please.
OK, I just want to talk to her.
Come out.
We need to talk.
I need to talk to you, Leila.
Come out.
It's important.
If we pack our bags and leave now
nothing will happen to you.
I promise they'll give you
a heroic welcome too.
Leila.
Don't be so stubborn.
Leila!
Don't make things any worse.
You're not listening, are you?
Fine!
They've asked me to tell
you to check your phone.
So check your phone.
Check your phone!
My name is Ammar Hosseini.
We have one request from
our daughter Leila.
- Sweetie...
- Look at the camera!
Do not continue!
Just listen to whatever
they say, sweetheart.
So we can all return home.
God damn you!
Where have they taken them?
- Where have they taken them?
- What are you doing?
What have they done to them?
Why do you think I'm responsible?
Where have they taken them?
What's the matter with you, Leila?
Instead of being so selfish
you could've thought about this!
- What's wrong with you?
- Get lost!
- Let her go!
- I'll kill you, you snitching rat!
What the hell is wrong with you?!
What are you doing?
Don't you get it? They're
threatening my family too!
You've got us all in trouble,
you selfish, stupid girl!
It's all right. Let's go!
Get her some water.
Are you all right?
We're going towards the border.
As you can see, it's so windy!
The weather is terrible
but that's the way it is.
The hardest part is over now
and soon we will meet again.
There's barely any reception here.
I'm trying to send you this video for now.
Whatever happens,
you will always be my hero.
I'm so worried, Nader.
I still don't know where
they've taken my parents.
They're willing to do anything
to them now to make me withdraw.
How did we get into such a mess?
Call me!
I want to make sure you're okay.
And away they go.
The winner will go
through to the semi-finals.
And that crowd is
going absolutely mad...
They're just so into this.
It's absolutely amazing.
Yeah, remember Neil, it's still
a straight knock out here. So...
whoever wins this contest,
will go through to the semi-final.
The loser will leave with nothing.
She's gotta stay focused.
That's the most important thing.
Leila Hosseini.
Head down.
But look at the Georgian here.
Absolutely...
Oh, she nearly made a mistake there.
And Hosseini on her back.
And fighting to try to get...
I think it was across the face there.
The referee's very quick to stand them up.
Quick readjustment of the Judogi.
Now, arm around the back.
It's gotta get at least
90 degree landing for a score.
But looks to be struggling
just a little bit. Doesn't she?
Yeah, I thought the
same, you know Neil.
Yeah, it just seems so
unfair that Leila Hosseini
she's really getting
out here on the ground.
But looks to be struggling
just that little bit. Doesn't she?
When we saw her in the
earlier rounds, she was fluent.
She was really working hard.
Here, she just seems out of sync.
She's certainly not fighting
like she was earlier in the day
where she got all involved.
And, oh! She just
flagged off that one!
That throw was so so fast.
And both fighters are
absolutely giving their all here!
It depends on who wants it most,
as to who will go through.
Look at the determination there,
Kapanadze, there stays right.
Let's grip up.
Left against right.
Right against left.
Whichever way you look at it.
And a drop Seoi-nage
there from Kapanadze.
And straight up in to
the attack on the ground.
- Now, we've seen her in trouble before.
- 'MATE'
And now it's her turn.
Straight in there.
Looking for the strangle.
Can she go for the
arm lock again?
'MATE'
And look at that.
She's really really struggling.
And she is just holding on.
She really is.
She's clearly not in a good place.
And she is really breathing heavy.
She's finding it very very difficult.
We've seen her absolutely
pick herself up from nowhere.
She's managed to produce
fantastic techniques.
Hosseini, now then, just
manages to climb up that Tomoe Nage.
And now it's her turn.
Straight in there,
looking for the strangle.
Can she get it?
And can she go for
the arm lock again.
'MATE
Leila! I'm here!
I'm with you, Leila!
Come on, Leila!
Don't give in!
Get back in there!
What's happened?
Just breathe! Breathe!
Look at me, Leila.
Just breathe.
Listen to me, Leila.
If you want to stop
it's OK.
You don't have to continue.
It's fine!
OK.
She can go back.
Well, she's prepared for
this moment all her life.
And she's never been
in a better position
to go forward to the semi-final
of the world championships.
Don't forget you're here
for the gold medal, Leila!
- Good attack there from Kapanadze.
- It's your fight now!
And now she's on top
You're better than her on the ground!
- Get up! Get up, girl!
- She's looking for the strangle here.
- You got her, Leila!
- Kapanadze, can't she get it on
- we've seen her in this position
- Yes! Resist!
Don't give up!
You're wearing her out!
There you go!
Show me what you've got!
The entire world is watching
you, Leila! Get on your feet!
Can she hold it off?
If she submits, two taps
and it will all be over.
Yeah, she's put in so much into this,
it's incredible to see this contest.
You've got nothing more
to lose! Get up now!
Leila! Amir is watching you! Get up!
Kapanadze there,
the crowd absolutely behind her.
'MATE
Oh, just manages to pull
her neck free there.
Now there's blood on the mat.
And that might just be the savior.
Yeah, definitely Neil. You know,
She's already had one break with the doctor.
But she's allowed to have two
breaks for different injuries.
It won't hold long but it will
buy you a few more seconds.
OK.
She's ready to go back.
Absolutely, what a fight this is.
Now the Georgian comes
onto the attack here.
Kapanadze has her
arm over the back
Now that you're here
you should fight to the very end!
Control the match!
Get out of her guard!
Yes, that's it!
But she's got to get
out of there, Hosseini
You got her! It's all yours now!
The gold medal is yours, Leila!
And look at that. Ghanbari is absolutely
shouting at her to get out of there.
Get out of danger
- But she's being dominated with the grips
- Go on! Go for it! Yes! Yes!
You got her! She's yours now!
Ippon! Soremade!
Tomoe Nage right way over-the-top.
Disappointment for Hosseini.
And the Iranian hope of a world title.
Leila! Please!
Here, here!
You all right?
We're gonna find you a room...
get you some ice.
Once she settles down with
the grip that she was... Oh!
And that's that! It's what it's all
about there and Lavi's lost it.
Lavi is out.
Yes. Well, it's Shani Lavi
of Israel who will be going home.
And it's Caracal of Hungary
who goes through to the final.
No, no, Ms. Ghanbari. We should
go that way to the parking lot.
Everyone's waiting for us on the bus.
Excuse me.
Do you realize what
the fuck you've done?
You don't, do you?
- Give it to me!
- Let's get in the car.
- Just calm down.
- Think about your mother.
Don't you want to see her again?
- You can trust me.
- Come on.
He hasn't even taken your passport.
I told you to stop her,
you have no guts.
- Now!
- Open the door!
Open the door!
She'll get in the car herself.
- Don't make things worse!
- Let's go, hon.
Please!
I have your back. Come.
- Open the door.
- She's coming.
- What the hell are you doing?
- Go get her!
Don't let her leave! Go!
Stop!
Don't make things any worse!
Stop!
Stop!
- Wait! Wait!
- Please help me. Help me, please!
Let me go!
Help me!
Open the door.
Let her in.
Help me. I need your help!
Sit down.
They just...
What happened?
They wanted to kidnap me.
They took my passport.
- Who wanted to kidnap you?
- Iranian diplomats.
Here, you have everything.
Voicemails, messages...
All threats from Minister...
from Association.
I don't want to go back!
Yes?
- Hi.
- Hi.
Can I sit?
Sure.
I'm sorry.
I know how terrible it feels to lose.
But you were great
against all of your opponents.
I was so impressed.
I don't know.
With so much to worry about,
and a pre-occupied mind...
who else could've
managed to get this far.
Is that what you came to tell me?
No.
I'm here to tell you that
I'm not going back to Iran.
I'm risking it all.
So...?
You were right.
I wasn't injured in Seoul.
It was all made up.
I lied about it all these years.
To myself...
To you.
To my family.
To everyone.
I bottled it all up.
My name is Maryam Ghanbari.
My name is Leila Hosseini.
I'm here to win the gold for my family
for my team...
and for my country.
I wore what they ordered me to.
I repeated everything they told me to.
I am one of the millions of people...
under the control of the
Islamic regime of Iran.
I was not important to them.
None of us matter to them.
We are all tools.
I live in a country whose laws
do not allow me to coach
and compete freely.
I have to make the most
important decision of my life today.
Obey and return to my country, or...
risk everything
and fight for freedom and dignity.
I'd rather live in exile than to live
with hypocrisy,
lies and Injustice.
I choose to be free now.
But no matter what
happens after today...
wherever I am
I will always carry Iran with me.
Always.
Thank you.
Jean-Claire Abriel,
President of the World Judo Association
said tonight that
they're hoping to suspend
The Islamic Republic
of Iran permanently...
over repeated and severe
breaches of human rights violations.
Leila Hosseini and
Maryam Ghanbari have betrayed
the Iranian nation, Iranian
athletes, and the Islamic Republic.
Not only have they
disrespected our Islamic values...
but they have also
shamed our nation.
We just crossed the border, Leila.
It was so difficult, but we managed.
Amir was a true hero!
He's asleep right next to me.
He misses mummy so much
but we'll soon be together again.
Everything has been arranged,
so try not to worry.
We love you more than the world.
Kisses.
On Tatami 1...
In the white -
representing the WJA refugee team
Hosseini.
And in the blue -
from the Islamic Republic of Iran
Rashid.