2024 FESTIVALApr 10-20, 2024Lansing, MI
  • The Champion

The Champion

2015 / USA / 19 Minutes / Brett Garamella, Patrick McGowan

Film Synopsis

From 1968 to 1976, Estaifan Shilaita was the boxing champion of Iraq. Despite his success, Estaifan was barred from representing the Iraqi national team. After this defeat, and with the encouragement of his family, he risked everything to leave his home country. He traveled to Greece where he faced constant struggle. Everything seemed hopeless until he met his wife Hannah who brought a joy into his life that has lasted almost 40 years.