Zidane: A 21st Century Portrait

This experimental documentary focuses entirely on Zinedine Zidane, the legendary French footballer, during a single 90-minute match he played for Real Madrid against Villareal on April 23, 2006. Employing 17 cameras to capture every nuance of his performance, the film offers an intimate and often mesmerizing portrait of the athlete as he navigates the pressures and artistry of the game. It delves into his physical movements, his strategic thinking, and the emotional landscape of a professional footballer at the twilight of his career.

Zidane: A 21st Century Portrait was met with critical acclaim, lauded for its innovative approach to sports filmmaking and its deep exploration of its subject. Critics praised the artistic vision of the directors and the unique intimacy achieved by focusing solely on Zidane. While some found the lack of traditional narrative structure challenging, the majority appreciated its experimental nature and its success in capturing the essence of a sporting icon.

• An artistic and immersive study of athletic genius.

• Pioneering use of multiple cameras creates an intimate and hypnotic viewing experience.

• More of a mood piece than a traditional sports documentary, offering a unique perspective on performance.

Google audience: Google users largely appreciated the film's unique artistic approach and its intense focus on Zinedine Zidane, highlighting its ability to capture the player's presence and the tension of the game. Some viewers found it slow at times, but most admired the innovative filmmaking and the deep dive into the mind of a football legend.

Screened at the Cannes Film Festival (Official Selection - Un Certain Regard).

The film features a score composed by Mogwai, a Scottish post-rock band, which was developed concurrently with the filming and editing process, creating a symbiotic relationship between the music and the visuals.