Offside

Synopsis

Offside is a comedic drama directed by Jafar Panahi, focusing on the ban against women attending football matches in Iran. Set during a World Cup qualifying match, the story follows a group of determined young women who disguise themselves as men to enter the stadium and support their team. The film explores themes of gender equality, social constraints, and the power of unity. As the girls navigate the challenges of being discovered and detained by authorities, they form unexpected connections and challenge societal norms. With a mix of humor and poignancy, Offside showcases the resilience and spirit of the female characters as they fight for their right to simply cheer for their favorite team.

Cast

• Sima Mobarak-Shahi

  First Girl

• Shayesteh Irani

  Smocking Girl

• Ayda Sadeqi

  Soccer Girl

• Golnaz Farmani

  Girl with Tchador

• Mahnaz Zabihi

  Girl Disgusted as Soldier

• Nazanin Sediq-zadeh

  Young Girl

Reviews

Offside has received critical acclaim for its fresh perspective, compelling storytelling, and impactful social commentary. The film holds a rating of 7.3/10 on IMDb, 94% on Rotten Tomatoes, and 85/100 on Metacritic. Critics praise Jafar Panahi's direction and Sima Mobarak-Shahi's authentic performance, highlighting the film's ability to blend humor with important societal issues. The Guardian describes Offside as 'a heartfelt and humorous exploration of gender boundaries in Iran' while IndieWire calls it 'a powerful statement on female empowerment and the universal love for sports.' Variety applauds the film for its nuanced approach to feminism and cultural traditions, stating 'Offside is a triumph of storytelling that resonates beyond the football pitch.' The movie's strong ratings across various platforms reflect its universal appeal and lasting impact.