Watch Football Under Cover

Football Under Cover is a 2008 documentary that provides a unique and insightful view into life within Iran that is rarely seen by Western eyes. Directed by David Assmann and Ayat Najafi, the film follows a German women's football team as they embark on a tour of Iran to play the Iranian women's national team in a friendly match. The documentary starts with the anxious German team arriving in Iran, unsure of how they will be received and uncertain of the level of opposition they will face. The Iranian women's team had just returned to the sport after it had been banned following the 1979 Islamic Revolution, and the Germans were unaware of the progress the Iranian women had made in the sport.

Shot in mesmerizing verité style, with the camera always at eye level, the documentary takes the viewer on a journey into Iranian society, providing them with an extraordinary sense of the place and culture that they would not have experienced otherwise. Along the way, the filmmakers capture some stunning scenes of Tehran, Iran's capital city, and the surrounding areas.

The narrative of the film is driven by the tension between the German and Iranian teams. The Germans, who have grown up with the sport, are eager to showcase their skills and test themselves against quality opposition. The Iranians, on the other hand, are motivated by the opportunity to demonstrate their progress in the sport despite harsh societal obstacles. The excitement leading up to the game is palpable, as both sides anticipate the contest with a mix of hope, apprehension, and excitement.

One of the most compelling things about this documentary is how it gradually reveals the complex, often contradictory, nature of Iranian society. Throughout the film, we see various characters that represent different aspects of Iran, providing insights into the country's values, politics, and social norms. These characters include the Iranian coach, who is determined to win and hopeful that football can help to change societal expectations of women; a transvestite boy who works as a hairdresser and dreams of playing on the national team; the players themselves, who come from a wide range of backgrounds and hold different views on what it means to be an Iranian woman; and various officials and spectators, who share their opinions on the game and the role of women in Iranian society.

Despite the initial apprehension and worry from both sides, the documentary builds towards a thrilling climax, as the two teams finally face off on the pitch. The game itself is well-filmed, with an intense energy throughout, reflecting the passion and dedication of the players from both sides.

As the final whistle blows, the filmmakers turn their attention to the aftermath of the game, capturing the reactions of the teams, officials, and spectators. The result of the game is, in some ways, unimportant, as both sides have already achieved something more significant. The opportunity for these two teams to come together on the football field is an act of international understanding that serves as a reminder of the power of sports as a bridge between cultures.

In conclusion, Football Under Cover is a remarkable documentary that provides an insightful and intimate look into life in Iran. Through stunning cinematography, a compelling narrative, and a cast of fascinating characters, it expresses the challenges and triumphs of women in sport in Iran. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in international relations, football, and the human experience.

Football Under Cover is a 2008 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 26 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.5.