The Defenders
2023•1h 21m•Released
Documentary
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.
Director
Matthew Bate
Writer
Matthew Bate
Languages
English, Arabic
Studio
Sweetshop & Green
Cast
Hakeem al-Araibi
Craig Foster
Production
Company
Sweetshop & Green
Company
Closer Productions
Company
Screen Australia
Producer
Gal Greenspan
Producer
Alice Burgin
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