international competition programme

KICKOFF

(Roser Corella, Stefano Obino / 2025 / 77 min / Germany, Spain)

In a small village in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan, where conservative traditions confine women to domestic duties, Gazi challenges the status quo by organising a women’s football tournament. As she strives to empower the women and break social taboos, Gazi must navigate through cultural resistance, unveiling a compelling story of resilience, and social change in this unique setting.

Director’s statement :

We were struck by the transformative power of sport. Through football, Gazi and the women of Kök-Tash find a voice that defies expectations and fosters social change. As they come together to train and compete, they discover strength in each other and a newfound sense of self-worth. This is a story of defiance, love, and community—a tribute to women who refuse to be confined by societal roles. The film illustrates how a simple game can serve as a platform for asserting rights, challenging societal pressures, and envisioning a brighter future. Through their journeys, we hope to inspire others to believe in the possibility of change, no matter how steep the climb.

Roser Corella

Roser Corella & Stefano Obino are independent flmmakers based in Berlin, each with a distinct approach to documentary storytelling. Together, Corella and Obino are committed to uncovering powerful narratives that inspire change and provoke thought.

Roser Corella began her career as a video journalist before transitioning to self-produced documentaries. She is renowned for her visually compelling narratives centered on women, customary laws, labour, and migration. Her award-winning flms, Machine man, Prisoners of Kanun, Grab and Run, and Room Without a View, have been showcased at international festivals such as CPH:DOX, Hot Docs, Shaghai IFF, Tessaloniki IFF, among others.

Stefano Obino

Stefano Obino is a screenwriter and filmmaker recognized for his work in various formats, including independent films and docu-series. His debut feature, “The Gospel According to Precario,” gained acclaim in Italy, and he directed “Nel paese dei Coppoloni,” a finalist at the David di Donatello Awards. Obino’s last documentary “War Is Over” was awarded at the Nastri d’Argento 2022, and upcoming projects highlight his creative evolution.