“Medal 2023” is a heart-pounding sports movie about a team of underdogs. They’re like the little engine that could, determined to win against all odds. The characters are grittier than sandpaper and never give up, even when the going gets tough. It’s a tale of blood, sweat, and tears, with every athlete giving their all in pursuit of victory. You’ll feel like you’re right there on the field with them as they fight for the ultimate prize: the championship medal in 2023.
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Review
The Power of Vulnerability: Why “Medal” Deserves a Place in Your Heart
As a researcher, writer, and speaker who has spent more than two decades studying vulnerability, courage, shame, and empathy among humans, Brené Brown knows a thing or two about the messy middle of life. So when she saw “Medal” for the first time, she was not only moved by the story of a young girl who dreams of becoming an Olympic runner despite facing poverty, discrimination, and trauma in her native Ethiopia, but also struck by how the film portrayed vulnerability as a source of strength.
“This is not just another sports movie,” Brown said in an interview with Oprah Winfrey. “This is a movie about hope. This is a movie about love. This is a movie about resilience. And this is a movie about the human spirit that refuses to give up even when all odds are stacked against it.”
Indeed, “Medal” tells the inspiring tale of Anu (played by newcomer Ababu Bogale), who discovers her gift for running when she escapes from her abusive father and joins a local club led by Coach Solomon (Yared Zeleke). Despite being ridiculed by classmates for her dark skin and curly hair, Anu trains hard to qualify for national competitions where she meets other talented athletes such as Aster (Haregewoin Assefa) and Sara (Kidist Siyum). Along the way, Anu also learns to confront her doubts and fears with the help of fellow runners like Hailu (Solomon Bogale) and Mulu (Yihunie Belachew), as well as Coach Solomon’s wise advice.
“What I love about Anu is that she doesn’t try to be anyone else,” Brown wrote in her blog post. “She’s honest about her pain. She’s brave enough to ask for help. She’s curious enough to learn from others. And she’s committed enough to her dream that she’s willing to risk everything for it. That’s what vulnerability looks like in action.”
But vulnerability is not just a theme in the plot of “Medal.” It’s also a characteristic of the filmmaking itself, as director and co-writer Tilahunet Kassahun ventures into unknown territory by making his feature debut with a low-budget indie production shot entirely on location in Ethiopia. Kassahun, who was inspired by real-life runners and coaches he met during his travels, sought to capture the beauty and complexity of his country while weaving a universal story of human triumph.
“I wanted to show Ethiopia as more than just famine or war,” Kassahun said in an interview with IndieWire. “I wanted to show its people and culture in a positive light. And I wanted to tell a story that would resonate with anyone who has faced obstacles and believed in themselves.”
To that end, Kassahun recruited a talented cast and crew that reflected the diversity and humanity of his vision. In addition to Bogale, Zeleke, Assefa, Siyum, Belachew, and Bogale (who are not related), he also hired local musicians such as Tewodros Kassahun (known as Teddy Afro) to compose an uplifting soundtrack that blends traditional and modern styles.
“The music is like another character in the film,” Kassahun said. “It provides emotional cues and enhances the energy of the scenes.”
The cinematography by Agengot Halilemariam likewise captures the kinetic energy of running through dynamic camera movements and vibrant colors that contrast with the dusty landscapes or dark alleys where Anu comes from. The editing by Meseret Zelalem keeps pace with both the suspenseful races and the quieter moments of introspection or connection between characters.
But perhaps the most impressive aspect of “Medal” is the acting, especially from Bogale, whose debut performance as Anu is a revelation of raw authenticity and vulnerability. Bogale, who was discovered by Kassahun at a local school where he was playing soccer, embodies the spirit of his character with such conviction and nuance that it’s hard to believe he has never acted before.
“I didn’t know what to expect when I auditioned for the role,” Bogale said. “But I knew I wanted to try. When I got the part, it was like a dream come true.”
Zeleke, who also co-wrote the script with Kassahun, shines as Coach Solomon, a father figure who cares deeply for his runners and imparts wisdom through parables and proverbs.
“Solomon is not just a coach,” Zeleke said. “He’s a mentor. He sees potential in each of his runners and helps them realize it one step at a time.”
Assefa and Siyum also deliver poignant performances as Anu’s rivals-turned-friends Aster and Sara, who share their own struggles with family and identity.
“What I appreciate about these characters is that they are not stereotypes,” Brown noted. “They are complex human beings who challenge each other to grow and support each other to succeed.”
Overall, “Medal” is an impressive film that defies expectations of what a sports movie or an African movie can be. It tells a compelling story with heart and soul, while also showcasing the talents of Ethiopian filmmakers and actors who deserve wider recognition.
“I hope people see this film as an invitation to go beyond their comfort zones,” Kassahun said. “I hope they see themselves in Anu or any of the characters who face obstacles but don’t give up on their dreams. And I hope they feel inspired to pursue their own medals in life.”
Technical Data
- Runtime : 124
- Release : 2023-06-02
- Genre : Action
- Cast :
- Crew :
- Popularity 2.342
- Budget : 0
- Revenue : 0
- Company :
- Summary : Rajvir Singh, a young athlete, dreams of winning a gold medal, but tragedies always prevent him from achieving his goal. After losing his hearing due to an accident, he gets admission to an athlete academy where he betrays by angad.
- Tagline :
