We Dare to Dream – 2023 is an inspiring documentary that sheds light on the life of Waad Al-Kateab, whose film For Sama was nominated for an Oscar. This chilling documentary paints the picture of refugees-turned-athletes struggling to earn a place in the Olympics. During the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, the world would have been introduced to these powerful athletes, which would not only symbolize their personal struggles, but also serve as a beacon of hope for millions of other displaced individuals. The film is rich with tales filled with optimism, willpower, and toughness.
The Trailer
The footage of athletes practicing despite the challenging odds ahead gives the trailer an inspirational feel. It emphasizes their individual journeys such as escaping run down war zones to currying a life in the refugee camp with hope of one day becoming an Olympic athlete. The emotionally charged trailer assists the audience into diving deep into the mile stones achieved by the athletes and ends with a high note celebrating their perseverance and togetherness. The audience is left motivated and enhances the audience onto believing in the healing powers of sports.
Cast Highlights
- Kimia Alizadeh: Known for her groundbreaking achievements in taekwondo, Kimia fled Iran in pursuit of freedom and continues to shine as an advocate for women and refugees in sports.
- Wael Fawaz Al-Farraj: A Syrian swimmer who trains with unyielding dedication despite the trauma of displacement.
- Saeid Fazloula: An Iranian canoeist whose journey encapsulates the balance of athletic ambition and survival against all odds.
- Anjelina Nadai Lohalith: A South Sudanese runner whose determination to succeed is rooted in dreams of inspiring her community.
- Cyrille Tchatchet II: A Cameroonian weightlifter whose story of homelessness and resilience is a testament to the strength of the human spirit.
Synopsis
Al-Kateab in We Dare to Dream provides an observative view into the Refugee Olympic Team and, as a result, he exposes the extreme training regimes that these sportsmen undertake as well as their out-of-competition struggles. Athletes from the most devastated countries such as Syria, Iran, and South Sudan have to deal not only with the violence of wars but with cultural adjustments and the separation from their relatives . Such disturbing issues do not prevent them from enjoying their sports and wishing to participate in the Olympics.
Apart from showcasing them as athletes, the documentary goes into their stories and analyzes race, identity, belonging, and the overarching motivation to triumph. Their stories come together in Tokyo and the whole world watches in awe not only the magnitude of sporting achievements but the depth of their humanity. We Dare to Dream, contrary to popular belief, is not only a documentary about sports but also with a broader meaning: the undying spirit of humanity and hope.