Few World Cup finals were as dramatic as 2006, when Italy played France led by star player Zinédine Zidane. The teams were well matched and both scored. During extra time something happened that fans are still discussing today: seemingly out of nowhere, Zidane took a run up and headbutted opponent Marco Materazzi. He was sent off and France lost the subsequent penalty shootout.
Filmmakers Boris Yukhananov and Aleksandr Shein see more in these events than merely a controversial sporting incident. Using found footage, they reconstruct the lives of both Zidane and Materazzi. Analysis of statements from interviews and football careers is linked to current affairs topics such as an aircraft crash and the flooding of New Orleans. Zidane proves to be the locus of a divinely directed play. There is also an ironic, edifying message for humanity.
Film details
- Country of production
- Russia
- Year
- 2017
- Festival edition
- IFFR 2018
- Length
- 148'
- Medium/Format
- DCP
