Original subtitles

[instrumental music]

[crowd cheering]

(Ali) Freedom. It comes at a price.

It has to be fought for.

1979, a revolution through my country.

My Iran into chaos.

Revolutionaries stormed the US Embassy

and took Americans hostage.

The world was watching as our magnificent nation

was changed, forever.

The United States of America will not yield

'to international terrorism or to blackmail.'

[crowd applauds]

(Ali) Seeing an opportunity, Iraq invaded Iran

starting a brutal war.

[gunfire]

Thousands were being slaughtered.

My parents wanted to save me from this nightmare.

[explosion]

This is my story.

[instrumental music]

[speaking in Farsi]

[dramatic music]

[indistinct chatter]

[indistinct chatter]

[speaking in Farsi]

[sobbing]

[speaking in Farsi]

[engine starts]

[speaking in Farsi]

[music continues]

[instrumental music]

[people chanting]

[goat bleating]

[indistinct chatter]

[knocking]

[instrumental music]

[grunting]

[speaking in Farsi]

[speaking in Farsi]

[panting]

[speaking in Farsi]

[speaking in Farsi]

[speaking in Farsi]

[grunting]

[speaking in Farsi]

[speaking in Farsi]

[dramatic music]

[horn honking]

(male #1) 'Watch it, loser!'

[people chattering]

[rock music]

* Everyone's watching to see what you will do *

* Everyone's looking at you *

* Oh *

* Everyone's wondering *

* Will you come out tonight *

* Everyone's trying to get it right *

* Get it right *

* Everybody's working for the weekend *

- Excuse me, do you know where-- - Eww. No.

* Everybody wants a new romance *

* Everybody's goin' off the deep end *

* Everybody needs a second chance oh *

Hey, where are you going?

* You want a piece of my heart *

* You better start from the..*

[bell rings]

Totally lame.

Everyone, everyone, attention!

We have a new student.

Alidad, will you please stand up?

Everyone, this is Alidad Garahasnaloo Jahani.

[all laugh]

He is joining us from Iran.

He's Iranian.

[speaking in Farsi]

Alidad, would you like to say something about yourself?

- Ali. - Pardon?

You can call me Ali.

And you don't have to speak slowly.

I speak English just as well as Farsi.

Farsi, the most widely spoken language in Iran.

[speaking in French]

Okay, everyone, attention, we're now going to learn

'to conjugate verbs ending in "-er."'

Ali, why don't you help the other students?

[speaking in French]

[techno music]

This is rad. Where'd you get this?

Oh, I got it when I was visiting UCLA with my mom.

She's all "Go Bruins."

It's really annoying.

- I better get in. - Yeah, well.

Do you want to see what else I got?

Huh..

'Cause you're such a delicate little flower.

[chuckles] My mom would totally kill me if she found out.

Yeah, Kristi N. Larsen

only sluts and sailors get tattoos.

[giggles]

- Toad. - Hmm?

If you keep eating that shit

you're never gonna make weight.

Yeah, whatever.

I just think you're afraid to wrestle Knox.

Bullshit, man, I've taken on

tougher sons of bitches than Knox.

Not with your pants on.

[laughs]

Yeah, right.

Wrestlers wear singlets not pants.

[laughter]

What? Why are you laughing?

Forget it, don't hurt yourself, buddy.

[laughing]

(Toad) 'Bite me.'

[people chattering]

[dramatic music]

Oh, look who it is.

Hey! Hmm.

I haven't seen you since Brian's party.

- 'Yeah, it's been a while.' - You're looking good.

Hm.

Jesus! Would you look at that sad sack of shit?

'What the hell is he wearing?'

[imitating goat]

[imitating goat]

[laughing]

[imitating goat]

[imitating goat]

What are you doing?

Aren't they all like goat herders and farmers

where he comes from?

Oh! Oh, yeah

you mean like 90% of the people in this town.

[imitating]

Stupid.

Jesus, just look what he's eating.

[chuckles]

Oh, gag me with a spoon.

Nothings says small town like picking on the new kid.

[imitating goat]

(Michael) 'Oh, don't cry.'

[instrumental music]

[bell rings]

[people chattering]

(Ronald Reagan on TV) 'If you don't think that this course that we've been on'

'for the last four years is what you would like to see us follow'

for the next four, then I could suggest

another choice that you have.

'This country doesn't have to be'

'in the shape that it is in.'

[greeting in Farsi]

English. Speak English.

We're in America.

'How was your first day at school?'

Not so bad.

You're lying. It's written all over your face.

'Come here.'

You have to be tough, Ali.

'What did you think?'

Coming to America

would be like a Hollywood movie

with a happy ending?

- May I go upstairs. - Sit down!

When I first came here, I was treated like a prince.

You think the Italians and the French guys have it good?

When I used to walk into a disco

or a restaurant, the American girls

they would throw themselves at me.

And now? This is what they think of us.

This is all they will ever think of us. Terrorists.

You're bad luck, Ali!

You've brought more bad luck with you from Iran.

[instrumental music]

[speaking in Farsi]

Ali.

Don't forget your lunch.

I made you chelo khoresh.

Thank you.

[birds chirping]

[rock music]

[dramatic music]

[grunts]

- 'So, you wanna play football?' - Yes, sir. I do.

Have you ever played before?

No, but, I-I'm a really good learner and I'll work very hard

and-and follow all the rules.

Uh, I'm actually surprisingly strong for my size.

What position are you interested in playing?

Um, Red 42.

- The Red 42? - Yes.

Well, son, I'm sure with enough time

and good coaching, you'd make one hell of a Red 42.

But, um..

You really wanna smash heads with those fellas?

[exhaling]

Maybe I try a different sport.

Maybe a club.

Do you like Dragons?

[instrumental music]

You're not making this any easier on yourself.

People are just gonna hate you more.

[indistinct chatter]

Whoa!

What the hell!

[instrumental music]

God. You pushed me, you dick.

[laughing]

Oh, don't cry, Alibaba. It was an accident.

[groans]

[chuckling]

Hold this. Come on, man.

Is there a problem here?

- No problem. - No problem, sir.

Michael, are those your books on the floor?

The books are mine.

These are for coloring.

[chuckling]

Well, we have a comedian.

Both of you.

To my office, right now.

Towel has a trouble.

[all chuckle]

The next kid I hear saying anything like that

'is suspended for a week.'

[indistinct murmuring]

Michael, you know the way.

Thank you, Carla.

Son, take a seat.

(Principal Skinner) 'Do you want me to call your father in'

'to have another meeting?'

(Michael) 'No, sir.'

(Principal Skinner) 'You give me any more trouble'

'I'll have no choice but to make that call.'

- 'Do you understand me?' - 'Yes, sir.'

(Principal Skinner) 'Now, get back to class'

'and see if you can find a way to behave yourself.'

(Michael) 'Yes, principal, sir.'

[door opens]

(Principal Skinner) 'Alidad, you're up.'

You think you're special?

Excuse me?

Do you think you're special?

No, sir.

You're not.

Everyone's family came here from somewhere else and they all

had to endure some trouble from the people already here.

That's, that's the way it works. That's the deal.

'And it's worked that way for over 200 years.'

Now, uh, if you can accept that challenge

there's nothing you can't achieve.

I believe that.

'I hear you're a smart kid.'

Good.

Act like it.

'Stick your nose in the books, keep a low profile'

'and you're gonna get along just fine.'

That's it.

You get one free pass.

Thank you, sir.

Good luck to you, son.

Mom, please don't do this right now. Please.

Kristi, you know what our deal was.

You keep your grades up, you keep the car.

(Kristi) 'Mom.'

I, I'll study harder, I know I can do better.

- 'Please.' - 'Never.'

'You're into UCLA with a "C" in French.'

This will pay for a tutor for the rest of the year.

[indistinct chatter]

[murmuring]

[bell rings]

- Hi. - Hi.

Mm, these are our specials for today.

I'm not hungry.

Okay. Um, can I get you something to drink then?

How 'bout I just let you think about it?

You don't have to sell your car.

What?

I-I heard you outside with your mother.

You were eavesdropping?

What is eavesdropping?

Listening to other people's conversations.

Oh, yes, I was eavesdropping.

That's really creepy.

Wait, I-I could get you an "A" in French.

I-I could be your tutor.

- For what? - For what?

So you can go to college.

No, I mean, like, for what, like, how much would it cost me?

[speaking in French]

No comprende, senor.

[chuckles] I see I have my work cut out for me.

No, nothing. I said, it will cost you nothing.

'You need help, I can help. Simple as that.'

[instrumental music]

Let me think about it.

[men giggling]

Okay.

[crickets chirping]

[speaking in Farsi]

You let this thing go to hell, man.

When was the last time you used it?

Seven years ago.

When we took that trip to San Francisco.

Huh. That was over ten years.

1966. I remember the red head.

Oh-oh-oh-oh. Estefani.

Estefani, that's right!

Estefani! Oh-ho!

She was some dish. I wonder what happened to her.

Don't use the word "Dish".

Nobody uses the word "Dish" anymore.

'It just sound old.'

[instrumental music]

Alidad. Come here.

Pasha, this is Alidad.

My sister's son.

[speaking in Farsi]

'She get him out of Iran because he was'

too small to fight.

'The army didn't want to waste a gun on him.'

Hafez, come on.

- Uncle, you're drunk. - So what?

This is my house not yours.

Yet, you disrespect me by throwing away the food

that I so generously prepared for you?

[speaking in Farsi]

No, no, no. Where do you think you're going, huh?

What, you're too chicken to face me? You're worthless.

You're no good there, you're no good here

you're no good anywhere.

[laughs]

You have some good moves, kid, huh?

Hafez, Hafez! Stop! What are you doing?

[yelling in Farsi]

He's just a kid!

Come on!

[speaking in Farsi]

[instrumental music]

[crowd cheering]

[indistinct chanting]

[buzzer buzzing]

(male announcer) 'Tor Wade of Windsor'

'is the winner of the 126-pound division.'

Toad looks like he's gonna shit his pants.

(male announcer) 'Now wrestling at 132 pounds, from Windsor'

'two-time state champion, Roman Knox.'

[cheering and applause]

'And from East Petaluma, Dan Webster.'

Relax, Dan. It's okay. You got this.

Take a breath.

[indistinct chatter]

His thigh's all sweaty.

Yo, Wendy!

[indistinct chatter]

Ew. It's train sale.

- What are you, jealous much? - Of that?

Wendy, come on already.

[crowd cheering]

- Dan Webster. - Uh-huh.

[cheering and applause]

What's up, baby.

[whistle blows]

Go, Toad!

Come on, Knox! Go, Knox, take him down!

Pick it up, pick it up!

Come on, Danny!

[grunts]

[whistle blows]

Yeah!

'Whoo! Go, Toad!'

Not bad.

Thanks.

[whistle blows]

(Kristi) 'Go, Toad!'

[grunts]

(all) Oh!

Two, take down!

[cheering]

Watch the arm. Watch the arm!

[bone cracks]

[whistle blows]

'I need a halt.'

[groaning]

[laughs]

[grunting]

[instrumental music]

You didn't have to do that.

You could've won without doing that.

No shit.

Wha.. You think you're so tough?

What do you know about winning, old man?

[intense music]

(male announcer) 'Thanks for coming, everyone.'

'We'll see you next Tuesday for the match against'

'Tomales High School.'

Come on, we'll get 'em next time.

[crowd booing]

[intense music]

What are you lookin' at? You got a problem?

- Mike! - 'Here we go again.'

You're freakin' dead. You're freakin' dead!

[dramatic music]

This way.

Hey.

What happened out there?

Well.. Unrighteous behavior from the Windsor boy.

Unrighteous, huh?

Yeah.

Dan..

I hate to see you living like this.

I got a lead on a few possibilities.

- That's good. - Yeah.

This is no place for you. Are these books helping any?

It's a...process.

I'm in the middle of one myself.

Unfortunately, mine is called the process of elimination.

State says I have to make budget cuts.

And wrestling, is not inspiring anybody.

Dead limbs from a tree.

That's what they say, Dan.

Well, I'm producing thoughtful young men.

Well, get your act together and produce

fighting young men.

Like you used to.

I'm not on the battlefield anymore.

No.

You guys had it rough.

At least we had a parade or two to come home to.

Team's coming along.

Doing the best I can.

It's not good enough.

Get some wins on the board.

Get the community behind the team.

Can you do that, Dan? Because I do have other problems.

Yeah. I heard about the troubles with the new kid.

Yeah, the kid.

Damn hostage thing

among everything else.

They say he's trying to get on a team.

Whoa! You stay away from that.

This kid is the last thing you need.

It's not what I was saying.

Coaches were talking.

Okay.

Okay.

[instrumental music]

[door opens]

[indistinct chatter]

[bell ringing]

[gasps]

[grunts]

Get too high. Then flip them.

How easily did you get off balance?

Right?

Okay.

Go, pair up.

- Coach Plyler? - Yeah.

Hi, my name is Ali Jahani.

I know who you are.

Good. I would like to try for the wrestling team.

Look, um, I'm sorry.

The season's already started and..

All the weight classes are covered.

I mean..

...have you ever even wrestled before?

- No. - Well..

But, I've endured more pain than anyone in this room.

Well, the goal is to avoid pain.

[laughs]

Wrestling requires discipline and control.

But how do you win without the ability to endure suffering?

Look, I, I appreciate your tenacity, Ali.

I do.

I'm afraid it's a no.

- 'Coach? Coach..' - Alright.

I read that by law

you are required to let a new student try out.

[laughs] Check this out.

[sighs] Well, fair enough.

Okay, let's get this over with.

Marvin. Come here.

No, not him.

Him.

[dramatic music]

Pin him quick.

- Don't hurt him. - Yes, sir.

You ready?

[whistle blows]

Come on. Let's go, Jimmy.

- Come on man, get him. - Come on, get him.

'Yeah.'

Pin him quick.

- Take him down, quick. - To the ground, Jimmy.

- 'To the ground.' - 'There you go. There you go.'

- Come on, come on, let's go. - Come on, let's go.

- Jimmy. - Finish it.

- Come on. - Come on, Jimmy, let's go.

[indistinct chatter]

[gasps]

- Let's go. - Come on, Jimmy.

- Get the back, get the back. - 'Get him from the back.'

Get him.

[indistinct chatter]

[dramatic music]

Get him, get him!

- Come on. Finish it. - Come on.

[intense music]

[whistle blows] Yes!

[gasping]

[panting]

The kid's tough.

[chuckles]

[panting]

Alright. Let's get back to practice.

'Come on. Let's go, let's go.'

'Jimmy, hit the ropes.'

'Eric.'

I'll see you on the mat in five.

I'll see you tomorrow.

'3 o'clock. Don't be late.'

[instrumental music]

Alidad.

Sit down.

Sit down, I'm not going to hit you.

Ali, I am sorry, but

I can't afford to support you any longer.

'I have no business, nobody comes to me'

'to fix their cars anymore.'

I will probably lose this house too.

I am sorry, but I'm going to have to ask you to leave.

Uncle, if this is about that food

that I threw out, I'm sorry. You know I appreciate--

No, it's not just about the food.

I-i-it's the mortgage, the electricity

my business, your attitude, this..

...this country.

I should've never promised my sister

I could take care of you.

But what am I supposed to do?

W-where do you expect me to go?

I cannot answer that for you.

You know, if I go back to Iran, they will kill me.

They will send you in to battle, that is true.

But if you die there, it will be quickly and with honor.

Not like here.

Breath will seep out of you slowly.

No, no. What if I get a job and I help you pay the mortgage?

No arguments.

I have already signed the papers.

I can no longer support your visa.

You see?

You can't do this to me, uncle.

You made a promise to our family.

You can't just toss me out on the street like--

It is finished!

Go. Pack your belongings.

Go!

[sobbing]

[sighs]

[instrumental music]

I, uh..

What is that?

It's my wrestling uniform.

What wrestling uniform?

I made the team today.

[chuckles] You made the wrestling team?

What does it matter now?

I used to wrestle when I was your age.

Bravo.

You don't have it in you to be a champion.

You don't know anything about me.

You have no idea what it took for me to get out of Iran.

'I couldn't just hop on a plane like you did.'

[chuckles]

Well, I admit

it would be nice to see a Persian boy beat the Americans.

'In front of their friends and families.'

That is something I would like to see.

They're not expecting anything from you.

You will surprise them, that's how you'll beat them.

And I'm going to teach you how to bust their faces.

Uncle, there is a coach already.

Yeah, the coach. Coach.

I read the paper, he is a peacenik on a losing streak.

Do you want to win?

Do you want to win?

You want to make your parents proud?

Yes.

Then you will listen to everything I say.

So, I can stay?

[crowd chattering]

Hi.

I heard that you made the wrestling team.

[speaking French]

Oh, thank you.

You still wanna tutor me in French?

- Yes, of course. - Cool.

Can you meet me at my mom's restaurant at, like

seven?

I-I have to work until then, but she'll make you dinner.

Okay, th-that sounds great.

- I'll, I'll see you then. - Groovy.

- 'What a douche.' - Keep up the losing streak.

What are you, zero and seven?

[instrumental music]

(Dan) 'You get two points for a takedown'

two points for a reversal, one for an escape

which...means getting out of a..

...hold. Right?

Um, come on.

These are your five basic moves. Learn them.

Wrestling more than any other sport teaches pride.

Respect yourself, respect your opponent, and..

And the results will come. You.. You just..

Come on, boys. Stretch it out.

You don't listen too good, do you?

Well, he..

The kid's second-string.

He's not gonna compete.

You know, I just..

- You just felt sorry for him. - He's got a fire in his belly.

Look, I'm warning you. It's gonna turn into a circus.

You don't want this.

No good for you and it's no good for this boy.

My advice..

Let him go now.

[instrumental music]

[instrumental music over speaker]

What's going on?

This is your zurkhaneh.

Your house of strength.

This is where you'll train.

And you'll humbly bow in respect to your ancestors

every time you step inside.

- Are you ready? - Yes.

[grunts]

[groaning]

When Genghis Khan invaded Iran 500 years ago

he took away all our weapons.

Your ancestors secretly trained themselves to kill people

with their bare hands.

We call this varzesh-e pahlavani.

The sport of the ancients.

You want to learn, hm?

Or do you want to eat shit your whole life?

I want to learn. I want to learn.

Good.

Now, come on, be a man.

If you're going to be irritated by every rub

how will you ever be polished?

'These are meels.'

This set has been in our family

since the time of Nader Shah.

You practice them in sets of 100.

'If you can get through 100 swings without stopping'

you move on to the next biggest.

You swing them like this.

One.

Two.

Three.

You try.

Ugh.

Strengthen your wrist.

A hundred?

There's no sport that requires

more stamina than wrestling. None.

Start again. Go.

Wait. Aren't you going to count?

What, are you Lebanese?

You want to drive a Mercedes while your children starve?

Now, you want others to think you're strong

when you know you're weak?

Count for yourself.

Cheat if you don't care to win.

[door opens and closes]

[instrumental music]

- Ms. Larsen. - 'Hi, you must be Ali.'

I am Kristi's mom.

Thank you for helping her with her French.

Of course. Um, where is she?

I thought you'd be more comfortable in the back.

Hi.

Hi.

Are you gonna sit down?

Looks like your mother has banished me from the restaurant.

Should I start using the backdoor from now on?

- I.. - What is she so afraid of?

What your father will think?

My father's dead.

Oh.

Look, I'm sorry.

Look, the people in this town..

I mean, it's gonna take them a while

to get used to the thought of you.

And I'm sorry

that it's like that.

But my mom just can't afford to lose business

until that happens.

Hey.

You understand, right?

Is it alright if I ask what happened to your father?

He was drafted when I was little.

He just never came back.

That happened to my brother too.

I'm lucky to have an uncle here so I could escape the war.

Wait, lucky?

People here are so awful to you.

How do you stand it?

Simple.

I should've been dead.

Instead, I'm here in California

sitting across from a pretty girl

who's not covered from head to toe

and nobody's putting us in jail.

So, where're you having the most problems?

Oh, everywhere.

Well, let's start with personal pronouns.

[speaking French]

That's "Open your book."

[laughs]

Yeah, I knew that.

[chuckles]

- Sure. - 'Together..'

Together, we're going to do what has to be done.

We're going to put America, back to work again.

[cheering]

Ugh, why do we even bother?

Three matches in and he still keep Ali on the sidelines.

"Bosom Buddies" is on TV if you want better jokes.

See the way he look at me?

We should go.

Come on, stand up!

[whistle blows]

[buzzer buzzing]

Alright.

It's alright. Come on, we'll get 'em. Get 'em on the next one.

(male announcer) 'One twenty-six pound wrestlers, please check in.'

- Brian Caulfield. - Brian Caulfield.

Stay focused.

Where's Marv?

- Toad, check the back. - Okay.

[retching]

I found him. He's puking his guts out and it-it looks bad.

- Right now? - Yeah.

Ohh, shit!

Coach, now if we forfeit the 126s, we-we lose the match.

(male announcer) 'One twenty-six pound wrestlers'

'approach the head table, please.'

That's Ali's class. Look at them.

They would rather lose than see a Persian boy beat a white boy.

Idiots!

[glass shatters]

Shit, Hafez!

What're you doing?

Nobody saw, let's go.

Let's get out of here, come on.

Will the 126-pound wrestler from East Petaluma

'approach the table'

or forfeit the match.

Jahani.

Come on, Jahani. You're up.

Hey, it's that Iranian kid.

- Hey, look. - Wait, what?

We lose, if you get pinned

we could tie, if he beats you by points.

It's the other way around.

- Okay, so don't get pinned? - No, don't risk it.

If he gets you down on the mat, you stay on your stomach, okay?

What, what if I can win?

No, no, you win by not getting pinned.

Or hurt. Understand? Okay?

So, much for winning the gold.

Don't get pinned.

Ali Jahani.

Oh, boy.

(male announcer) '...Ali Jahani!'

What did he just say?

I think they just called Ali.

Son of a bitch.

Hafez, wait.

I don't think it's a good idea.

[whistle blows]

[audience booing]

Iran, go home.

The Iron Sheik.

Watch out for the camel plunge.

Don't listen to them.

Come on, Ali. You got this.

(Dan) 'That's it, stay down.'

[booing continues]

That's it, you're doing good. Just stay down, just stay down.

Great going, yeah, that's it. That's it.

Face up!

(Hafez) 'Ali, pasho. Lift the back, pasho.'

Pasho, Ali. Ali, pasho.

Ali, pasho! Pasho! Pasho!

Listen to me. Right there. It's beautiful.

Pasho, Ali. Pasho.

[speaking Farsi]

No! Don't get up!

[grunts]

[cheering]

'There you go. Right there.'

Right there, that's it.

[speaking Farsi]

No!

[whistle blows]

Ali, listen to me. Look at me, lay down. Stay down.

Okay? Go, get on.

Come on, Ali.

[booing]

(male #2) 'Iran, go home.'

- Listen! - Pasho.

[whistle blows]

(Dan) 'Stay.'

You're doing great, man. That's it.

[booing]

'That's it.'

[dramatic music]

[speaking Farsi]

That's it.

[speaking Farsi]

No!

[speaking Farsi]

- No, whoa! - Beat him!

[indistinct chatter]

(all) Yay!

Yeah! Yes!

[laughs]

Stop. Oh, my God.

[audience booing]

Winner, at 126 pounds

'Ali Jahani.'

You just earned yourself a ten-mile run.

Next time you don't do what I say

you're off the team. You get that?

- But I won. We won. - No, no, no.

You almost got pinned. Individual glory

does not come before the good of your team. Okay?

(male announcer) 'From Healdsburg, Jeff Corona.'

'From East Petaluma, Brad Flores.'

Good. Sick of losing.

[audience cheering]

We can win.

- 'Yes! Turn him over.' - 'Let's do it.'

They almost started to riot.

You didn't catch that?

Dan, this is precisely what I did not want.

It's good.

You're pushing me right to the edge, aren't you?

- The kid may have some talent. - I'm glad you know it.

Come on, watch your leg.

[instrumental music]

Lean back and get 'em together.

Take it. Here. Pull over and pile 'em.

[grunts]

You see? Like that.

[audience cheering]

[whistle blows]

[speaking French]

[cheering]

Yeah!

[cheering]

[booing]

[instrumental music]

(Hafez) One, two, three..

[audience cheering]

Yes!

Now, sit the way I told you to.

Nice.

One, two, three..

Ali, take a seat, man.

Scoot down, make room.

Ah.

What is it, goat balls?

[laughter]

You know, I don't get it.

You let your wife throw you out of your own house

without so much as a whimper.

And yet this kid, despite all the warnings.

This, this is where you make your stand.

I have somethin' to fight for.

[audience cheering]

[whistle blows]

[instrumental music]

[retching]

[bell ringing]

[laughs]

We all chipped in.

[instrumental music]

- What? - Try it on.

Does it fit?

Yes. Yes.

[snivels]

- Thank, thank you. - 'Looks good, buddy.'

He's real tender, ladies.

'Congratulations.'

Oh. Gamie.

'Lil' Ali Baba gonna cry?'

(Kristi) 'Mike, stop it.'

You got a problem, Jimmy?

Don't listen to that prick, okay?

Now, look at me. Pick you up at eight tonight.

Be ready.

What a fag.

[laughing]

[rock music]

- Yo, hop in! - Come on, Ali.

* I want you to want me I need.. **

Whoa.

[crowd cheering]

[both laugh]

You're a star to me.

[laughs] Sure.

Take it. Drink up.

Get some hair on your chest.

That's not the problem I have.

[laughs] I, I know.

Go on, dude, we're celebrating. Drink up.

What are we celebrating?

Folks are finally starting to take notice.

We're starting to win our matches finally.

There's a college recruiter called me.

Wait, the college called you?

Yeah.

- No way. - Hastings.

Can you believe that? I don't even know where it is.

Of course I can believe that.

All I ever wanted to do is be as good as my brothers.

Why not be better than them?

That's what I love about you, Ali. You just..

Good just isn't good enough.

[coughing]

- Oh, what a wuss. - Shut up.

[both laugh]

* I love you to love me *

* I'm beggin' you to beg me *

* I'll shine up my old brown shoes *

* I'll put on a brand new shirt *

* I'll get home early from work *

* If you say *

* That you love me *

[indistinct chatter]

* Oh didn't I didn't I didn't I see you cryin'? *

[girls laughing]

Drop your drawers, huh?

It doesn't matter.

[music continues]

* Feelin' all alone without a friend *

* You know you feel like dyin' *

* Oh didn't I didn't I didn't I see you cryin'? *

Do you need help?

Yeah.

Ready?

- Step here. - Okay.

* I want you to want me *

* I need you to need me *

Mr. Lieberman's house.

He's an ex-mayor, he's an asshole

but he's an asshole who keeps his pool

heated year around.

- No, no, don't. - Come on.

- Move your ass, dope. - 'I got it.'

You guys ready?

Let's go.

* I want you to want me *

* I want you to want me **

[music continues]

[laughter]

Guys, go, go, go! Let's go!

You get your sock.

You damn kids, get the hell outta here!

'This is private property.'

Next time I'm calling the cops.

[both laugh]

[instrumental music]

(male #3 on TV) 'It's a time when much patience is needed..'

Here we go. Not too much, you have to make weight.

(male #4 on TV) 'Well, I think it's totally crazy that they take over'

'the American Embassy over there, and then'

they're over here expectin' us to give them an education.

(narrator on TV) 'From Senator Robert C. Byrd'

'majority leader in the Senate'

'I'd feel like taking a punch at one myself'

'if I could get to 'em.'

'In Cleveland, demonstrators'

'called for all Iranians to be deported.'

[indistinct chatter]

And in Beverley Hills, a mob cornered an Iranian.

When he tried to protect himself, this is what happened.

[indistinct shouting]

They're enemies of American people. Go home!

Go home!

Go home!

[audience booing]

Get out!

[booing continues]

Go home!

Hey, hey!

Stop, stop. Sit down.

Put your energy out there. Come on.

It will take a while, alright? Just take a break, come on.

Put your towel on. I'll call you in a minute.

Let's go!

'Come on. Come on. The game's over.'

[cheering and applauding]

I hear you and your boyfriend

were up to no good at the Liebermans.

He's not my boyfriend.

Well, there's a rumor going around

that you guys did it in the pool.

Are you kidding? That's disgusting.

'That would never happen.'

Now, I hate to be the person that made that up

because I'm going to kill them.

(male announcer) 'One twenty-six pound wrestlers'

'please check in.'

[booing]

Go home!

Dan, get him the hell out of here

before this thing gets ugly.

He's not doin' anything wrong.

If someone gets hurt

are you gonna take responsibility for it?

If they got a problem with him..

...they should leave.

Oh, for the love of God.

[booing continues]

- Break his neck. - Go home.

'Go home!'

Ali. Come here.

This is what I'm gonna need you to do.

[cheering]

[whistle blows]

[grunting]

[whistle blows]

[audience silenced]

[cheering]

[instrumental music]

- Not bad. - Awesome.

- Hafez. - Jane.

Wh-what are you doing here?

My son is on the team.

Marvin.

- Marvin? - Yeah.

Where is, um.. where is his father?

In hell, if there is any justice.

Do you know who I am?

Yeah, I know who you are.

I'm sucking down to 126.

'I mean, you could imagine what I'm putting my body through'

'to cut that weight.'

So, out of respect for the process

if you're afraid to fight me, tell me now.

I'm not afraid of you.

You have to say that.

I get it.

I have a full ride to Stanford

if I want.

Lucky you.

I'd say it's a bit more than luck.

You see, when I want something

I don't stop until I get it.

Good work ethic.

You know what I really want?

A sandwich.

Ha. That's funny.

You're quite the comedian.

I'm gonna break your neck. I'm gonna rid America

of one more flag-burning sand nigger.

[grunts]

You know, these people, let's see if they still love you

after I destroy you.

[intense music]

[cheering]

[whistle blows]

[grunts]

(Hafez) 'Knox is strong as a bull.'

His fundamentals, tick like a Swiss watch.

And he's clearly not afraid of pain.

He's merciless.

Oh.

[tape whirring]

You see?

Look at the stance, he's off-balance.

You can almost count his steps.

'You're going to have to use your speed'

and catch him off-balance in between steps

that way, you can use your strength against him.

Surprise him.

Get up.

Okay, so, if I push you, you, you push back.

Exactly, but watch my steps.

One, two. One, two.

Okay, so in between steps I go under.

- Yeah. Yeah. - What if I miss?

Then you go over.

[grunting]

[gasping]

It will take a lot of practice because..

...that is dangerous.

But you will know when to do it.

Let the silence lead you.

'Are you listening?'

If Knox is in your head, he has already won.

You want some pizza?

Go ahead, eat. 136 is wide open, you will clean up.

You have no pride, do you?

Hm? Eat, eat, quitter.

I don't know if I can beat him.

Look..

Released while The Bible was still warm in Reagan's hand.

You think it's a coincidence

the hostages were released the exact same day?

Mm-mm.

This country loves a winner.

They don't care how you become one.

Don't quit, Ali.

Once you throw your life away

it is impossible to get it back.

You can be a champion. You can be the best.

You're scared, so what? You're not the first.

You have to do what it takes to be not scared.

But how?

Is there anyone else you are scared of?

[dramatic music]

Hey! Hey, what's your problem?

You've been ignoring me for days.

Not now.

Don't just brush me off like that.

I have something to tell you.

I got an "A" on my French test.

I heard what you said to Wendy.

Yeah, I was eavesdropping under the bleachers.

You're disgusted at the thought of being with me?

You will always be small town

no matter where you go.

[indistinct chatter]

Whoa, whoa, whoa, what's this?

Let's go!

What, you didn't get enough last time?

Come on, tough guy. Now is your chance.

This a joke? It's a joke, right?

[grunting]

Ali, stop!

[grunting]

- Stop it! - Ali, stop it!

Stay out of this!

[grunting]

I got you now gym-o jocky.

- Mike, get off! - 'Is that all you got?'

'Is that all you got, gym-o jocky?'

[grunting]

[groans]

- Stop! - Let go, let go!

Hey, knock it off! Knock it off!

Dammit.

Susan, get the nurse.

Who started this?

Who started it?

You're off the wrestling team.

- No, but, sir-- - Shut up!

See if you can move your fingers.

Can you move your fingers?

Yes, Mr. Wingarm.

Chill out, man. Take a walk.

[instrumental music]

[knock on door]

Just got off the phone with the principal.

Dislocated shoulder.

That boy will never bother you again.

I could have hurt him worse, and I wanted to.

When a hero fights the dragon

is he worried about hurting the beast?

No, he takes his sword and drives it

straight into its heart, and the crowd loves him for it.

What is the point, uncle?

Now, I'm going to miss the rest of my meets.

'The whole team is going to lose'

'and they're going to be mad at me'

and now the school is going

to hate me again.

My mother will be ashamed.

That is right.

Because she wants to keep you weak.

To keep you safe, her little Azizam

that is all you will ever be to her.

Come here.

[speaking Farsi]

This is who you are now.

A fighter, a winner.

Who do you like better?

Mr. Tabad, we haven't officially met--

Is this about the fight?

That boy has been bullying Ali from the first day.

And that's no excuse for Ali to beat him up.

[scoffs] Americans.

You're so safe in your bubble. Soft.

That is why you haven't won in so many years.

We don't need to agree

but I do need your help.

I'm sure you know that sectionals is coming up.

Yes, and Ali should be there, leading them.

And if he's lucky, he will be.

But regardless, I..

I came to see if you'd help me with the other boys.

What?

I like what you've been doing with Ali. I..

Uh, it would have to be in an unofficial capacity, of course

but, because you're not a teacher, so..

What are you asking me?

I'd like you to be my assistant coach.

Heh.

What about, um..

...the American boys

what will they think?

You've taught Ali how to win.

They'll listen to you.

But I need Ali to listen to me too.

Especially around school.

Will I get to wear one of those?

I think as an assistant coach you have to.

[instrumental music]

And there were, like, five smokin' babes

five smokin' babes.

No, I was walking in the party.

What are you talking about..

Hey, guys, having a good time sitting around?

'You having fun?'

Sectionals are in two weeks

we're seeded last

and none of you..

...are ready.

'Which is why'

I asked Ali's uncle to..

...save our asses.

Raise your hand if you're interested in learning

some awesome new moves for the tournament.

Coach Tabad..

...take 'em to the mat.

I'm going to show you

some very advanced moves

world class moves, Olympic-level moves.

Some, very dangerous.

You? Come here.

The first one, we call gol rizen.

The throne flower.

You control the wrist

use your hips, and..

One move, from your feet, to his back.

[snaps fingers]

You talked to Skinner yet?

(Hafez) 'Feet to back.'

[knock on door]

Only those who risk pushing themselves too far

can possibly know how far one can go.

Perhaps I pushed you too far, too soon.

[indistinct chatter]

- Why won't he talk to me? - He's right there, go ask him.

- I said I'm sorry. - Apology accepted.

Then why do you keep ignoring me?

I've gotta go to math. Can we just talk about this later?

Damn, Ali, why do I have to do all the work?

See? Now, everyone knows.

Call me when you get back from Mars.

[Jimmy laughing]

[instrumental music]

Here, here you go.

We found a tunnel complex when we were on patrol.

And, um..

Ronnie went in first.

That's when we heard the blast.

By the time we got him out, you coul..

You couldn't even recognize him, you know?

And, uh..

...I went a little crazy. I did.

This is the grave of my best friend and I can't even tell you

'the last time I was up here.'

Because I don't want to think about all the things

that I did over there.

I was so filled with rage

rage like I think you're starting to feel, inside.

Always ready to even the score but it never evens out.

Not when it's fueled by anger.

You don't need that. You hear me?

You're bigger than that.

What the hell do you think you're doing?

I-I came to say I'm sorry

'and that I know what I did was wrong'

but I'd like you to reconsider

kicking me off the wrestling team.

You're lucky you're not expelled.

But there are people counting on me.

My coach and, and..

Oh, yeah, they're people counting on you.

And you let them down, didn't you? Everyone. And me!

And the next kid like you that comes into this school

you let him down too.

Please let me make it up to you.

You can make it up by taking responsibility for your actions.

Accept the punishment, don't whine about it.

And next time, think about the rules

before you attack another student.

Now, go on. Get back to your business.

Go on.

Sir, do you know what this is?

- It's a key? - It is a paradise key.

The revolutionary guard gave it to boys

they thought were too small or unfit for combat

and they told us it would open the gates to heaven.

And then we were sent into the Iraqi minefields

to clear a path for the soldiers.

'It was our duty to die so that the more valuable boys'

'the fighters would survive.'

I, I didn't believe that

and my parents didn't believe that.

So, I, I came here.

If I followed the rules, I would be dead.

I know what I did was wrong and I'm really sorry.

But, when you're fighting for your life

sometimes you don't know when to stop.

This jacket..

It means everything to me.

No, I'm good.

Look who it is?

[cheering]

[rock music]

[cheering]

* So why don't you turn me loose? *

* Turn me loose *

* Turn me loose *

* I gotta do it my way *

* Or no way at all.. *

[indistinct chatter]

This is what food should taste like. Are you done?

* Turn me loose *

* Turn me loose *

In the cabinet over there.

* I gotta do it my way *

* I gotta do it my way *

* Yaah *

[indistinct chatter]

* Turn me loose *

* Turn me loose *

* Turn me loose *

* Turn me loose **

(Hafez) 'You wanted to see me?'

Uh, Dan here

uh, tells me that you'd be ready to take the team

to the sectionals this weekend.

- You want me to drive them? - Sorry?

I cannot believe you. You-you think I'm--

No, no no. Hafez, no.

Now, listen, my number came up

at the Veterans Housing Association.

I have to sign the papers, in person, this weekend

Saturday, or I lose it

and I go to the back of the line.

I need you to cover for me.

To-to cover for you?

Heh.

[clears throat]

We need you to coach the team, Mr. Tabad.

- Me? - Yes.

Sectionals.

Yes. I accept.

Wonderful. Very good.

Yeah.

Oh, sorry.

(Hafez) 'Alright. You all have worked very hard.'

I am proud of each and every one of you.

We go out there, we show them what we can do.

We show them what we are made of.

I am honored to lead you into this battle.

With me. East Petaluma!

(all in unison) Brace!

Let's go.

[dramatic music]

[audience cheering]

(male announcer) 'Welcome to North Post Sectionals.'

'The winners from today's matches'

'will move to the State finals.'

'Good luck.'

Did you hear about Knox?

Apparently he's already qualified for State.

Killed everyone in North Bay. He went 8 and 0.

Where are your brothers?

Uh, if I'm not wrestling for State championship

they're not interested.

(male announcer) 'Jimmy Petersen, from East Petaluma'

'And Cleary Hope, from Clovis'

'please check in.'

See you on the podium.

[sniveling]

[instrumental music]

You are a champ

you left it all out on the mat.

There's nothing more you could have done.

Hey, I'm proud of you.

'I am proud of you.'

[audience cheering]

Ali, you do everything I taught you.

You go out there and you show them who you're made of.

Go do it.

Don't lose!

'Do you hear me? Don't lose.'

Somebody shut him up.

[whistle blows]

[intense music]

(Kristi) 'Come on. You got him!'

[music continues]

Yeah!

(male announcer) 'Winner at 126 pounds'

'Ali Jahani!'

[instrumental music]

Hey, uncle. Everybody's going to Mary's Pizza, to celebrate.

Yeah, yeah. I'll celebrate after you win State.

What do you think Knox is doing right now, hm?

He was at the match, he watched you.

He's home right now, practicing how to break you.

- You should be doing the same. - Okay.

Can we just not talk about the wrestling for one night?

What did that scout have to say?

He said he's gonna watch me at State

and if I win, I get a full ride.

Yeah, that's right, if you win.

[chuckles]

Yeah. Okay, go. Go, go have fun with your friends.

I promised Jane I would take her to dinner.

You know, I couldn't have done this without you, uncle.

Okay, okay, enough with the mushy stuff.

- Go, go have fun. - Okay, see you.

Hey, Hafez!

[chuckling]

[laughs]

[throttle revving]

You ready?

[horn blaring]

[glass shattering]

Uncle!

[dramatic music]

[instrumental music]

[music continues]

[music continues]

I received a call today

from Immigration and Naturalization Services.

U.S. regulation is very strict

when a minor loses his sponsor.

Yeah. Meaning what?

Meaning, as of now, Ali is an illegal alien.

Does he need a sponsor or something? I'll, I'll take him.

The INS guy said if it's not a family member

the screening process could take months

during which time, Ali would have

to stay at a juvenile facility.

Well, there's gotta be something we can do.

Special dispensation is sometimes made

but not without intervention at the state level.

They're expecting Ali at the INS office

in Sacramento by this Friday at 9:00 a.m.

Whoa, whoa, this Friday?

- This Friday is State. - I know.

Th-that boy wins, he's-he's guaranteed a scholarship, Bob.

He's full-ride.

He can't miss this opportunity.

We can't disobey the law, Dan.

[instrumental music]

[music continues]

(Kristi) 'Where does it all go?'

Into storage, I guess.

You could leave some stuff with me

when you get back.

Maybe one thing.

No. No, you keep it.

No, they're gonna take it from me when I go back anyway.

- You're not going back. - Stop.

I'll be happy knowing wherever I am that you have it.

I'm ready to wake up at 7: 00 a.m. tomorrow

so you can go to Sacramento.

I'm going to State.

Ali, you don't wanna piss off the INS, they'll deport you.

They're gonna deport me anyway.

How can you even think about wrestling

when you have all this other stuff to worry about?

How can I not?

He would want me to go.

He expects me to win.

[instrumental music]

[snivels]

[speaking French]

You know, you're still saying that though.

[chuckles] You're a bad tutor.

Hm-mm.

[instrumental music]

- Check in? - Name?

Ali Jahani.

- You're all set. - Ali?

- Pac Gordon. - Oh, hi, yes, I remember.

Look forward to seeing you in action today.

Well, you won't be disappointed.

Ready? Alright.

[music continues]

Good evening, ladies and gentlemen.

Welcome to the 1980 California State High School

'Wrestling Championships.'

[music continues]

'Come on, ladies and gentlemen, get to your V'

'and let's hear it for wrestling.'

[whistle blows]

[intense music]

[whistle blows]

[cheering]

[no audio]

[instrumental music]

[cheering]

[instrumental music]

[whistle blows]

[crowd cheering]

[groaning]

[crowd cheering]

[whistle blows]

(male announcer) 'Winner at 126 pounds'

'Ali Jahani.'

[whistle blows]

(all) Boo.

[dramatic music]

[indistinct chatter]

[whistle blows]

(crowd) Oh!

Hey, that's not cool.

[whistling]

Blood.

Look at me, look at me.

If he wants to fight dirty, you fight better.

[crowd cheering]

[music continues]

[indistinct screaming]

[whistling]

[crowd cheering]

Ladies and gentlemen, wrestling for the championship

'at a 126 pounds, 47 and 0 on this season'

two-time defending champion

'from Windsor High school, Roman Knox.'

[crowd cheering]

His opponent, he came into this tournament unseeded.

He's wrestled his way to the finals

from East Petaluma, Ali Jahani.

- Come on, Ali. - Come on, let's go.

Come on, Jahani.

Alright, heads up. Come on, look me in the eye.

Come on, come on.

Remember where you come from

and what it took to get here.

Why everyone in this place..

'...is watching you.'

It's because..

...they like fighters.

You fought for your life once already and won.

Go do it again.

Just do it again.

Ali, the key.

- Thanks, coach. - You're welcome.

I'll see you later. Okay.

(referee) 'Shake hands, man.'

Ready!

[whistle blows]

[groaning]

Here we go.

[crowd cheering]

Alright, here we go.

[whistle blows]

[grunting]

Push weight, push weight.

Move, move.

[groans]

[indistinct yelling]

Take down. Breathe.

One, two.

Put a leg in.

Ride him.

(referee) 'Yeah.'

- Fight, come on. Fight out. - 'One, two, three.'

(referee) 'Time.'

[crowd booing]

Two, near fall, green.

(referee) 'Let's go, second period.'

Green choice. Green down.

'Bring it on.'

'Set.'

[groans]

That's a foul.

Blood time. Grace.

'One point green.'

Ali, Ali.

Alright, alright, alright, alright.

Hey, he thinks he can't make a mistake but he can.

'Use his strength against him.'

[crowd cheering]

Alright. Here we go.

[whistle blows]

[groaning]

[dramatic music]

[groaning]

(referee) 'One...two'

Three.

Four. Time.

Two, green! Near fall.

(referee) 'Times up.'

[crowd cheering]

Red, red choice.

Red, red's going down.

[panting]

[dramatic music]

Now, sit the way I told you to.

'Okay, Red sit. Green on.

[whistles]

[dramatic music]

[crowd cheering]

Get him down! Get him down!

[whistles]

(referee) 'Out of bounds.'

[sighs]

Ali, Ali.

Remember your uncle's move that-that crazy, crazy move.

He said don't do it, it's too advanced.

Go do it. You can do it.

[crowd cheering]

[dramatic music]

[referee whistles]

[grunting]

[music continues]

[referee whistles]

Yeah!

[crowd cheering]

[instrumental music]

[music continues]

[crowd cheering]

[music continues]

(male #1) You can be a champion. You can be the best.

- Hey Ali, great job tonight. - Thank you.

How would you feel about wrestling for Iowa?

I would love to but there's actually

a problem with my immigration--

I know, I know.

A friend of yours explained the whole situation to me

and I think we've come up with a plan

to get out of this mess.

You see, Senator Wilson's an Iowa alumni

and a personal friend of your principal's.

'Apparently, they served together in World War II.'

So, all it took was a phone call.

Now, I understand you need someone at the state level

to give a special dispensation.

I-I-I don't know what to say. Thank you.

Thank you so much.

[laughs]

I can stay.

[laughing]

[instrumental music]

(Ali) Over 70,000 Iranian boys walked to their deaths

in the Iraqi minefields.

They were told that their only worth was to die

so that others could live and a better world waited

for them on the other side of the battlefield.

About that part, they were right.

[music continues]

[music continues]

[music continues]

* The energy within *

* It lifts me up towards the sky *

* An urgent call commands *

* Yet tears are falling from my eyes *

* I pray for strength to find *

* My way to fill your heart with pride *

* To live another day *

* I know that it's my time to rise *

[singing in Farsi]

* No matter where I go *

* No matter where the mountains climb *

* The rhythm of my soul *

* Be steady so my spirit flies *

* And when my body breaks *

* To weariness I can't defy *

* To live another day *

* I know that it's my time to rise *

* I see it clear *

* It's everything before my eyes *

* I feel your touch *

* In every way I can't deny *

* And all I have *

* Is all that I have inside *

* I know *

* I know that it's my time to rise *

[singing in Farsi]

* I feel the urge within *

* To leave the innocence behind *

* I'm running with the wind *

* Been living through the darkest nights *

* A better day will come *

* And victory from sacrifice *

* I live another day *

* I know that it's my time to rise *

* To ri-i-i-se *

* I see it clear *

* It's everything before my eyes *

* I feel your touch *

* In every way I can't deny *

* And all I have *

* Is allthat have inside *

* I know *

* I know that it's my time to rise *

[singing in Farsi]

* I know that it's my time to rise *

[singing in Farsi]

* To rise *

[singing in Farsi]