Watch The Gripping UK Trailer For Milad Alami’s Opponent

MetFilm have released the gripping UK Trailer for Milad Alami’s Thriller Opponent.

The film made it’s world premiere at Berlinale in 2023, leaving the festival with critical acclaim. Next month Opponent will arrive in the UK, starring Payman Maadi (A Separation) with Amirali Abanzad, Ahmed Abdullahi. The film was also Sweden’s official Oscar entry for next weekend’s Oscars, give you an indication how highly regarded the film is.

Opponent follows a professional wrestler forced to flee Iran. His family grapples with the Swedish asylum system whilst he grapples with his own past and desires.

The film follows Iman (Payman Maadi), an Iranian refugee who, along with his family, has fled Iran and is awaiting asylum in Northern Sweden. To strengthen his case, a translator proposes that Iman, a former Olympic wrestler, resumes the sport for Sweden – a decision that triggers conflict with his family and former teammates. While navigating the difficult asylum process, the complexities of refugee life and the demands of his training, Iman must confront internal and external challenges.

Iranian-born writer/director Milad Alami came to Sweden as a child and provides a distinctive perspective on the challenges encountered by refugees in Europe. OPPONENT masterfully delves into profound themes such as uprootedness, masculinity, liberty and tolerance. The film offers a thought-provoking examination of the impact of limited freedom on individuals and highlights the strength found in adversity.

Opponent will be released in the UK and Irish cinemas from 12th April. If you are in Glasgow, the film will make it’s UK Premiere at the city’s film festival on 8th and 9th March [book tickets/ info].