Offside

3/20/2026

I think this might be my favourite from Jafar Panahi as it takes a more comedic approach to his critical evaluation of modern day life in Iran. It’s a big day in the sporting calendar with their national team facing Bahrain for a spot in the 2006 World Cup. Ostensibly to protect them from the outrageous behaviour of the menfolk, girls are banned from entering the stadium but a few of them are not to be deterred. Donning a range of disguises they attempt to blag their way in past the touts, the attendants and the ever vigilant soldiers. Some do manage to sneak in, but a few are apprehended and detained in a holding pen tantalisingly close to a view of the pitch - but they are still not permitted to watch. Initially, the girls request that one of their captors provide a running commentary, t