THE SUN ALWAYS RISES AGAIN

AT 2017, 105 min.
Director: Dominik Thaller

FC Blau-Weiß Linz celebrated its twentieth anniversary in 2017. However, its founding was preceded by a sham merger of its predecessor club SK VÖEST, later FC Linz, with city rivals LASK by their respective presidencies. The film illustrates how the small working-class club fought its way back into professional football after its dissolution, creating a new generation of fans who became known beyond Austria's borders for their courageous stance against discrimination. Interviews and extensive archive material complete the picture of the first traditional club in Austrian football history to be re-founded by fans. TICKETS

Followed by a Q&A with Jan Tilman Schwab (11mm Football Film Festival Berlin) in conversation with director Dominik Thaller.

FOOTBALL UNDERCOVER

Germany 2008, 86 min., original version with subtitles
Directed by Ayat Najafi & David Assmann

When you think of Iran, women's football is probably not the first thing that comes to mind. Cultural differences and similarities emerge as a Berlin women's football team attempts to organise a match against the Iranian national team. People from two worlds collide, worlds that at first glance seem completely different, but whose goals and dreams are hardly distinguishable. ‘Football Undercover’ strikes a chord with the times [...]. The film fosters understanding and provides unexpected insights into Islamic life. Nevertheless, it does not shy away from the problems of a society completely dominated by men. Absolutely worth seeing." (ZDF) TICKETS

EAGLES FROM TAGA

RO/SK 2022, 74 min, OmeU
Director: Adina Popescu/ Iulian Manuel Gharvas

Sometimes everything seems to be against him: the weather, the referee, his wife and even his own players. Manager Nelu keeps his football team together with a mixture of passion and defiance. But the ‘Eagles’ from Transylvanian Țaga always lose. Nelu used to be a player himself, but now he keeps his club alive. The ‘Eagles’ are considered one of Romania's worst football teams. The directing duo Iulian Manuel Ghervas and Adina Popescu explore everyday (football) life in the countryside. Far from arrogant urban perspectives and romantic idealisation, a realistic portrait of provincial life emerges, taking plenty of time to explore interpersonal details, repeatedly encountering absurd everyday situations and remaining on eye level with the protagonists. TICKETS

Before the screening: Jan Tilman Schwab in conversation with main protagonist Nelu Târnovan.