LOTUS SPORTS CLUB
A film by Vanna Hem, Tommaso Colognese
2022, 72 minutes
2022, 72 minutes
No. 445
Documentary
Documentary
Description
Lotus Sports Club is a powerful coming-of-age documentary filmed over five years in Cambodia. It tells the inspiring story of Leak, a teenage trans man who plays soccer for the under-21 women's team in Kampong Chhnang, and Pa Vann, the 61-year-old coach who has become a father figure to Leak and other LGBTQ+ players. Pa Vann founded the team in 2009 to promote solidarity among straight, lesbian, and gender-diverse players, and has opened his home to the vulnerable and marginalized, creating a safe space where these youngsters can truly be themselves.
As Leak grows older and the pressures of life mount, he faces a difficult choice. No longer able to play on the team because of his age, and feeling the weight of financial responsibility for his family, Leak must make a decision that could mean moving to Cambodia's capital, Phnom Penh, and leaving behind the one person who has done more for him than anyone else.
As Leak grows older and the pressures of life mount, he faces a difficult choice. No longer able to play on the team because of his age, and feeling the weight of financial responsibility for his family, Leak must make a decision that could mean moving to Cambodia's capital, Phnom Penh, and leaving behind the one person who has done more for him than anyone else.
Festivals
Winner, Best Representation of LGBTQIA+ Non-scripted, MIPCOM Cannes Diversify Awards
Winner, Audience Award - Best Documentary, Amsterdam LGBTQ+ Film Festival
Official Selection, NewFest
Official Selection, Seattle Queer Film Festival
Official Selection, BFI Flare London
Official Selection, One World Human Rights Film Festival Prague
Official Selection, Seattle Queer Film Festival
Official Selection, BFI Flare London
Official Selection, One World Human Rights Film Festival Prague
Official Selection, Prague Pride Festival
Official Selection, Out on Film Atlanta LGBTQ+ Film Festival
Reviews
"If you only watch one documentary this year, make it this captivating, powerfully perceptive film." - Hattie Collins, i-D Magazine
Beautiful and uplifting - you'll really go on a journey - Lotus Sports Club is filled with charm and humanity." - Chad Armstrong, The Queer Review
"A poignant documentary about a self-made family" - Jules Morgan, The Lancet
