SOFF 2024: The Spiritual Warrior (Estonia)

Sports and Olympic Film Festival SOFF 2024 SOFF stands for the Sports and Olympic Films Festival, which is the first sports film festival in Estonia. It is initiated by the Estonian Sports and Olympic Museum located in Tartu and is taking place for the fourth time during the year when Tartu is the European Capital of Culture in 2024.

The Spiritual Warrior, directors Georgius Misjura, Aleksei Kulikov, 2024

In the heart of Max’s youth, coach Juri Solovjov steers him away from a life of crime, unlocking the door to kickboxing. Success in the Netherlands under mentor Ramon Dekkers propels Max to the top. However, a brutal injury before Golden Glory in New York derails his career overnight. Returning home, Max faces financial crises and the sudden death of mentor Ramon Dekkers, spiraling into deep depression. The feature documentary delves into Max’s inner battle, capturing the struggle for hope and the energy to exit the ring with dignity. “”The Spiritual Warrior”” unfolds as a poignant tale of resilience, tracing Max’s journey from triumph to despair and his quest for redemption beyond the ring.

The film duration is 1 hour and 20 minutes, followed by a discussion session. Jorgen Matsi (sports psychologist, MMA and BJJ trainer) discusses the importance of mental health in sports with sports journalist Johannes Vedru.NB! The discussion is held in Estonian!

All films of the Sports and Olympic Film Festival SOFF 2024 will be screened with Estonian and English subtitles at the Elektriteater in Tartu (Jakobi 1).

Accessibility Information: The festival is partially accessible for visitors with mobility impairments – the cinema hall on the 3rd floor of Elektriteater is only accessible by stairs. On-site, we can assist with the transport and carrying of a person with mobility impairments to the cinema hall, provided that prior notice is given before the film screening to the email address [email protected].