Synopsis

Concrete barricades that are several metres high, large-scale devastation, people throwing stones, and policemen taking action against mass protests with water guns. Pictures like these have been shaping the image of Diyarbakır for years. Predominantly inhabited by Kurds, this important city in Turkey is the setting for violent conflicts between the country’s largest ethnic minority and the government. Despite the politically-charged situation, Gökhan, a primary school teacher, has founded a basketball club for children and juveniles in the district of Bağlar and leads them to considerable success. Regionally, the team has been undefeated for a long time. And now the boys strive to advance to the second league. Melis Birder and Berke Baş followed the team for three years, when they practiced and in basketball matches. But the filmmakers also captured very private moments. The enthusiasm of Gökhan, his team and their fans seems electrifyingly contagious. Bağlar demonstrates how this basketball club not solely serves as way for young people to pursue a hobby, but also as a place where they feel united. The coach offers these kids an alternative to their dull, everyday lives in a crisis-shaken city, and hence, better perspectives for their futures.

Guests

Berke Bas

Berke Bas
Director, Producer Baglar
In Vienna: March 25-27

Melis Birder

Melis Birder
Director, producer Baglar
In Vienna: March 25-27