The Defenders
Synopsis
When talented Australian refugee footballer Hakeem al-Araibi steps off the plane in Thailand for his honeymoon, he finds himself facing an Interpol arrest order for alleged terrorism offences. What unfolds is the gripping true story of a heroic whistle-blower who, on speaking out about his own torture, sets off a revenge plot involving three countries, two royal families and the world's most powerful sporting body, FIFA. As Hakeem awaits extradition back to Bahrain, a group of campaigners led by a retired Australian football captain Craig Foster fight for his release.
Top Cast
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Release History & Theatrical Window
Sydney Film Festival
Festival / Special Debut
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Matthew Bate
- Screenplay & Story
- Matthew Bate
- Original Title
- The Defenders
- Country of Origin
- Australia
- Spoken Languages
- English, Arabic
- Runtime
- 1h 21m
- Production Studios
- Sweetshop & Green, Closer Productions, Screen Australia
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Matthew Bate
Matthew Bate
Jay Kennedy, Alex Cardy
David Scarborough, Bryan Mason
Alice Burgin, Gal Greenspan
Department Leadership Roster
Jay Kennedy
Director of Photography
Alex Cardy
Director of Photography
Matthew Bate
Director
Alice Burgin
Producer
David Scarborough
Editor
Gal Greenspan
Producer
Bryan Mason
Editor
Matthew Bate
Writer
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for The Defenders.
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Defenders
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is The Defenders about?
When talented Australian refugee footballer Hakeem al-Araibi steps off the plane in Thailand for his honeymoon, he finds himself facing an Interpol arrest order for alleged terrorism offences. What unfolds is the gripping true story of a heroic whistle-blower who, on speaking out about his own torture, sets off a revenge plot involving three countries, two royal families and the world's most powerful sporting body, FIFA. As Hakeem awaits extradition back to Bahrain, a group of campaigners led by a retired Australian football captain Craig Foster fight for his release.
Who directed The Defenders?
The Defenders was directed by Matthew Bate.
Who stars in The Defenders?
The principal cast of The Defenders includes Hakeem al-Araibi, Craig Foster.
When was The Defenders released and how long is it?
The Defenders was released in 2023 with a total runtime of 1h 21m.