Connect with us

SPORTS

From Judo Mats to Silver Screens: The Inspiring Journey of Zar Amir Ebrahimi, a Voice for Justice

Published

on

By

Judoka Leila Hosseini is kneeling on the mat. The Iranian Judo Association has ordered her to withdraw from the World Championship competition under a pretext so that she does not compete against an Israeli athlete. The regime cannot risk a defeat against a competitor from the country of its arch-enemies. Leila has defied everyone, but now she simply has no strength left. She is weakened, injured, exhausted. Her trainer Maryam Ghanbari (Zar Amir Ebrahimi) is secretly watching her from a distance. She too has been put under pressure. Shortly before, the two women had argued bitterly, insulted and hit each other. Maryam’s almost motionless face – a close-up in high-contrast black and white – reflects her inner struggle. Will she keep her distance, abandon Leila and thus have a chance of being pardoned when she returns to Iran? Or does she risk everything, including the lives of her family, and support her judoka? Maryam decides to support her athlete. She runs to the mat, where she is exposed to the gaze of the Iranian agents. She cheers Leila on and screams her heart out.

»Holy Spider« (2022). © Alamode Film

This struggle with herself, this controlled, dignified and sometimes stern face, behind which anger at all the injustice in this world simmers, is the trademark of Zar Amir Ebrahimi, born in Iran in 1981. This also applies to the role with which she achieved her international breakthrough in 2022, but for which she was not even intended. Director Ali Abbasi (“Border”) initially hired her as casting director for his film “Holy Spider”. For the character of the fictional journalist Rahimi, who tracks down a serial killer who murders prostitutes in Mashhad, Iran, on her own, Ebrahimi seemed too soft and friendly to him. Two weeks before filming began in Jordan, the Iranian leading actress unexpectedly dropped out for fear of reprisals. Ebrahimi lost her temper, and in her fit of rage Abbasi recognized his new leading actress. A stroke of luck for both sides. As investigative journalist Rahimi, Ebrahimi shines in all facets. Stubbornly and unwaveringly, she defends herself against male tutelage. Nevertheless, she has to submit to patriarchal power and almost falls victim to the murderer’s physical superiority. Anger, toughness, fear of death, courage – for this range, Ebrahimi was honored as best actress at the Cannes Film Festival, and her second acting career also gained momentum internationally.

»Tomorrow we are free« (2019). © Little Dream Pictures

Her first career in Iran ended abruptly in 2006. She played one of the most popular characters in the hit series “Nargess,” which was watched by around 70 percent of the Iranian population, and was considered a promising young actress. She had just played a supporting role in Abbas Kiarostami’s “Shirin.” After the last episode of “Nargess” was broadcast, however, an amateur film surfaced showing Ebrahimi and her then partner having consensual sex in a dimly lit room. The film spread like wildfire, with up to 100,000 copies reportedly being sold under the counter and circulating online. Ebrahimi became the center of the Islamic Republic’s first sex tape scandal. She was arrested and interrogated. The then-president, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, described the case and Ebrahimi in particular as a “national disgrace.” Her ex-boyfriend and protagonist of the soft sex film that had distributed the video received a prison sentence of several years, from which he was released after just two months. He is still working in the film industry in Iran today. She was punished with a ten-year ban on working. She was not formally charged at first because she did not confess under strong pressure. When friends informed her of new investigations and threatened her with 99 lashes and imprisonment, she fled to Paris via Azerbaijan on March 1, 2008. She nostalgically remembers the exact date on her official Instagram account with a self-portrait that shows her in a field of red poppies while still in Iran. She repeatedly uses her Instagram reach of currently 636,000 followers to make political statements. Especially since the murder of Mahsa Amini in September 2022, she has been sharing news and reels that protesters in Iran have recorded at the risk of their lives. She campaigns for support and advocates for the fate of prominent dissidents such as Taraneh Alidoosti; she repeatedly stresses the importance of protecting democracy and exercising one’s right to vote.

»Teheran Tabu« (2017). © Camino

The escape to France marked a difficult change for Zar, who was only 27 at the time. She had to make contacts in the industry and learn a new language. Interviews show that, in addition to her native Farsi, she now speaks French and English almost perfectly. Since filming “Tomorrow We’re Free,” she has also learned a little German. In 2009, she appeared again in plays and short films, but she didn’t get her first leading role until 2016 in the Swedish drama “Bride Price vs. Democracy.” When creating her characters, she usually draws on personal experience. In “Tehran Taboo” (2017), she plays the pregnant and obedient Zahra. As a literary studies graduate, she secretly applies for a job that she is not allowed to take without her husband’s permission, and is ultimately broken by these contradictions. Despite the alienation caused by the rotoscoping process, Ebrahimi’s presence is unmistakable. Her digital double also has her inner despair at the external constraints and expectations written on her face. A face that is both inconspicuous and striking, with a hint of defiance always playing around her lips. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

»The Thing« (2023). © Verleih

Even after her breakthrough in “Holy Spider”, she has remained true to Iranian stories. In Noora Niasari’s debut “Shayda”, Ebrahimi plays an Iranian exile who has emigrated to Australia and tries to save herself and her daughter from a violent husband. In Steffi Niederzoll’s documentary “Seven Winters in Tehran”, she lent her voice to Reyhaneh Jabbari, who was executed in 2014, and for Mehran Tamadon’s “My Worst Enemy” she improvised the role of an Iranian security agent. In order to convincingly portray the interrogation and torture tactics, she drew on her own traumatic experiences. The stories from Iran have not left her alone, and that has not changed since she accepted French citizenship in 2017. “I have this voice and I know how to use it. I can’t sit here and watch these people suffer without saying anything about it,” she explained her motivation in an interview at the Locarno Film Festival.

»Tatami« (2023). © Judo Production LLC / Juda Khatia Psuturi

Since she was forced to change her career in Iran due to the professional ban, Ebrahimi is also well versed in other trades such as film editing, directing and production. She has made documentaries and curated programs for the BBC’s Persian division. In 2019, she founded her own production company, Alambic Production. It seems as if she wants to make the most of her second chance. In the aforementioned “Tatami”, which turns a judo competition into a political thriller, she is not just an actress. It is her debut as co-director alongside Guy Nattiv (“Golda”) and marks the first cinematic collaboration between an Israeli and an Iranian filmmaker.

The biopic “Honor of Persia” is currently being planned, in which Ebrahimi will be the sole director for the first time and will tell her own story. Ebrahimi is a fighter, and all the pain, grief and injuries have made her who she is today. She herself now seems to be able to see this in a positive light, as she revealed in an interview with the “New York Times”: “I sometimes think, for an actress, I’m happy to have this much pain in my life.”

2024-07-25 22:04:37
#Closeup #Zar #Amir #Ebrahimi

READ FULL STORY HERE>>...CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>
Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

SPORTS

How Sponsorships and Betting Platforms Are Boosting the NFL

Published

on

By

The National Football League (NFL) has long been a powerhouse in the world of sports, captivating millions of fans every season with thrilling games, fierce rivalries, and unforgettable moments. However, the league’s growth and continued dominance aren’t solely due to the action on the field. In recent years, the influence of sponsorships and betting platforms has become a significant driver behind the NFL’s soaring popularity. This article delves into how these partnerships are not just complementing the league’s appeal but are actively boosting its reach and revenue.

The Power of Sponsorships: More Than Just Branding

Sponsorships have always played a crucial role in the NFL’s financial ecosystem. Major corporations vie for the opportunity to have their brand associated with the league, and these partnerships extend far beyond simple logo placements. The NFL’s sponsorships are deep-rooted, multifaceted collaborations that enhance fan engagement and create a seamless connection between the sport and the brands involved.

Sponsorship deals in the NFL offer brands access to a vast and diverse audience. The league’s games are watched by millions of viewers across the country and internationally, making it a prime platform for advertisers. Companies like Pepsi, Nike, and Verizon have leveraged their NFL sponsorships to not only increase brand visibility but also to engage with fans in more meaningful ways. These companies create campaigns, promotions, and experiences that resonate with NFL fans, making the league an integral part of their brand identity.

Additionally, these sponsorships inject substantial revenue into the league. The funds generated from sponsorship deals are funneled back into the NFL, supporting various initiatives such as player development, community programs, and stadium enhancements. This, in turn, improves the overall quality of the game, making the NFL experience richer for fans.

Moreover, the alignment of brands with the NFL fosters a sense of loyalty among fans. When a beloved brand supports their favorite team or the league, fans often feel a deeper connection to both the brand and the sport. This emotional bond translates into increased brand loyalty and, ultimately, higher sales for the sponsoring companies.

The Rise of Betting Platforms: A Game-Changer for Fan Engagement

The legalization of sports betting in many states across the U.S. has ushered in a new era for the NFL. Betting platforms like FanDuel sportsbook have rapidly integrated themselves into the NFL ecosystem, offering fans new and exciting ways to engage with the sport. This transformation has profoundly impacted both fan engagement and the league’s revenue streams.

Betting platforms have revolutionized how fans interact with the NFL. Previously, fans primarily engaged with the sport by watching games, attending events, or participating in fantasy football leagues. While these activities still hold immense value, betting has introduced a more dynamic and immersive way to experience the NFL. Fans can now place wagers on various aspects of the game, from predicting the outcome of a match to speculating on player performances.

This new level of engagement has made the viewing experience more interactive and exciting. Fans who place bets are likely to watch games more attentively, as they have a personal stake in the outcome. This heightened interest not only increases viewership but also encourages fans to watch games they might otherwise have skipped, broadening the league’s audience.

From a financial perspective, the integration of betting platforms has opened up new revenue streams for the NFL. The league has struck lucrative deals with major betting companies, allowing these platforms to operate within the NFL’s framework. In return, the NFL receives a share of the profits generated from bets placed on its games. This influx of revenue further bolsters the league’s financial stability and supports its growth initiatives. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

Moreover, NFL betting platforms have created opportunities for the NFL to tap into new markets. As more states legalize sports betting, the league’s potential audience expands. Betting platforms attract not only traditional sports fans but also individuals who may not have previously been interested in the NFL. This diversification of the fan base is crucial for the league’s long-term growth, as it ensures that the NFL remains relevant in an ever-changing entertainment landscape.

The Synergy Between Sponsorships and Betting Platforms

The convergence of sponsorships and betting platforms has created a synergistic effect that amplifies the benefits of both. Sponsorship deals with betting companies have become increasingly common, further intertwining the NFL’s financial ecosystem with the world of sports betting. These partnerships create a powerful feedback loop, where increased fan engagement through betting leads to higher brand visibility and, consequently, more lucrative sponsorship deals.

Betting companies, like DraftKings and FanDuel, have capitalized on their NFL partnerships by offering exclusive promotions and odds to fans. These promotions are often tied to the league’s major events, such as the Super Bowl, and are heavily advertised through the NFL’s channels. This not only drives betting activity but also enhances the overall fan experience by providing more ways to engage with the sport.

Sponsorships also benefit from the presence of betting platforms. The heightened engagement from betting creates more opportunities for brands to connect with fans. For example, a fan who places a bet on a game is more likely to pay attention to the advertisements and promotions displayed during that game. This increased attention translates into higher returns on investment for sponsors, making the NFL an even more attractive platform for advertising.

Furthermore, the integration of betting platforms into the NFL has led to the development of new forms of content. Betting-related content, such as odds analysis, betting tips, and expert predictions, has become a staple of NFL coverage. This content is often sponsored by brands, creating additional revenue streams for both the league and the betting platforms. It also provides fans with valuable information, further enhancing their engagement with the sport.

Conclusion

The NFL’s ascent as a global sports powerhouse is not just a result of the on-field action but is also deeply tied to the strategic partnerships it has forged with sponsors and betting platforms. These relationships have not only provided the league with significant financial support but have also revolutionized how fans engage with the sport.

As the NFL continues to embrace these partnerships, it is poised to reach even greater heights, solidifying its status as the preeminent force in the world of sports. The future of the NFL is bright, and sponsorships and betting platforms will undoubtedly be at the forefront of its continued success.

READ FULL STORY HERE>>...CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>
Continue Reading

SPORTS

How Sponsorships and Betting Platforms Are Boosting the NFL

Published

on

By

The National Football League (NFL) has long been a powerhouse in the world of sports, captivating millions of fans every season with thrilling games, fierce rivalries, and unforgettable moments. However, the league’s growth and continued dominance aren’t solely due to the action on the field. In recent years, the influence of sponsorships and betting platforms has become a significant driver behind the NFL’s soaring popularity. This article delves into how these partnerships are not just complementing the league’s appeal but are actively boosting its reach and revenue.

The Power of Sponsorships: More Than Just Branding

Sponsorships have always played a crucial role in the NFL’s financial ecosystem. Major corporations vie for the opportunity to have their brand associated with the league, and these partnerships extend far beyond simple logo placements. The NFL’s sponsorships are deep-rooted, multifaceted collaborations that enhance fan engagement and create a seamless connection between the sport and the brands involved.

Sponsorship deals in the NFL offer brands access to a vast and diverse audience. The league’s games are watched by millions of viewers across the country and internationally, making it a prime platform for advertisers. Companies like Pepsi, Nike, and Verizon have leveraged their NFL sponsorships to not only increase brand visibility but also to engage with fans in more meaningful ways. These companies create campaigns, promotions, and experiences that resonate with NFL fans, making the league an integral part of their brand identity.

Additionally, these sponsorships inject substantial revenue into the league. The funds generated from sponsorship deals are funneled back into the NFL, supporting various initiatives such as player development, community programs, and stadium enhancements. This, in turn, improves the overall quality of the game, making the NFL experience richer for fans.

Moreover, the alignment of brands with the NFL fosters a sense of loyalty among fans. When a beloved brand supports their favorite team or the league, fans often feel a deeper connection to both the brand and the sport. This emotional bond translates into increased brand loyalty and, ultimately, higher sales for the sponsoring companies.

The Rise of Betting Platforms: A Game-Changer for Fan Engagement

The legalization of sports betting in many states across the U.S. has ushered in a new era for the NFL. Betting platforms like FanDuel sportsbook have rapidly integrated themselves into the NFL ecosystem, offering fans new and exciting ways to engage with the sport. This transformation has profoundly impacted both fan engagement and the league’s revenue streams.

Betting platforms have revolutionized how fans interact with the NFL. Previously, fans primarily engaged with the sport by watching games, attending events, or participating in fantasy football leagues. While these activities still hold immense value, betting has introduced a more dynamic and immersive way to experience the NFL. Fans can now place wagers on various aspects of the game, from predicting the outcome of a match to speculating on player performances.

This new level of engagement has made the viewing experience more interactive and exciting. Fans who place bets are likely to watch games more attentively, as they have a personal stake in the outcome. This heightened interest not only increases viewership but also encourages fans to watch games they might otherwise have skipped, broadening the league’s audience.

From a financial perspective, the integration of betting platforms has opened up new revenue streams for the NFL. The league has struck lucrative deals with major betting companies, allowing these platforms to operate within the NFL’s framework. In return, the NFL receives a share of the profits generated from bets placed on its games. This influx of revenue further bolsters the league’s financial stability and supports its growth initiatives. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

Moreover, NFL betting platforms have created opportunities for the NFL to tap into new markets. As more states legalize sports betting, the league’s potential audience expands. Betting platforms attract not only traditional sports fans but also individuals who may not have previously been interested in the NFL. This diversification of the fan base is crucial for the league’s long-term growth, as it ensures that the NFL remains relevant in an ever-changing entertainment landscape.

The Synergy Between Sponsorships and Betting Platforms

The convergence of sponsorships and betting platforms has created a synergistic effect that amplifies the benefits of both. Sponsorship deals with betting companies have become increasingly common, further intertwining the NFL’s financial ecosystem with the world of sports betting. These partnerships create a powerful feedback loop, where increased fan engagement through betting leads to higher brand visibility and, consequently, more lucrative sponsorship deals.

Betting companies, like DraftKings and FanDuel, have capitalized on their NFL partnerships by offering exclusive promotions and odds to fans. These promotions are often tied to the league’s major events, such as the Super Bowl, and are heavily advertised through the NFL’s channels. This not only drives betting activity but also enhances the overall fan experience by providing more ways to engage with the sport.

Sponsorships also benefit from the presence of betting platforms. The heightened engagement from betting creates more opportunities for brands to connect with fans. For example, a fan who places a bet on a game is more likely to pay attention to the advertisements and promotions displayed during that game. This increased attention translates into higher returns on investment for sponsors, making the NFL an even more attractive platform for advertising.

Furthermore, the integration of betting platforms into the NFL has led to the development of new forms of content. Betting-related content, such as odds analysis, betting tips, and expert predictions, has become a staple of NFL coverage. This content is often sponsored by brands, creating additional revenue streams for both the league and the betting platforms. It also provides fans with valuable information, further enhancing their engagement with the sport.

Conclusion

The NFL’s ascent as a global sports powerhouse is not just a result of the on-field action but is also deeply tied to the strategic partnerships it has forged with sponsors and betting platforms. These relationships have not only provided the league with significant financial support but have also revolutionized how fans engage with the sport.

As the NFL continues to embrace these partnerships, it is poised to reach even greater heights, solidifying its status as the preeminent force in the world of sports. The future of the NFL is bright, and sponsorships and betting platforms will undoubtedly be at the forefront of its continued success.

READ FULL STORY HERE>>...CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>
Continue Reading

SPORTS

Is Rafa Nadal the best tennis player in history after adding a new Australian Open 2022?

Published

on

By

Rafa Nadal made history at the Australian Open after beating Medvedev in a 2022 Australian Open final to remember. The Balearic tennis player, who came to the tournament with many doubts after his physical problems in his left foot, showed -once again- the courage he treasures and was able to turn the match around against a Daniil Medvedev who went up two sets …and that seemed to fly straight to his first Australian Open. Nothing is further from reality. And it is that Rafael Nadal did not lose focus and helped by greater efficiency in the first service and a much deeper and more accurate ‘drive’ managed to turn the score around and beat the Russian in an epic final of more than five hours. Nadal was crowned the new king of the Australian Open. Nadal repeated the success of 2009. Nadal confirmed himself as a great legend.

Nadal, king of the Australian Open 2022

After the resounding absence of Novak Djokovic, Rafa Nadal began his career against the American Marcos Giron, whom he easily beat in three sets, as well as his next rival, the German Hanfmann. His first major clash at the 2022 Australian Open was the one in which he faced the Russian Khachanov in round of 16, against whom he lost his first set of the tournament to finally win 6-3, 6-2, 3-6 and 6-1 . In the quarterfinals, Rafa Nadal also suffered to defeat Frenchman Mannarino, especially after a first set that ended in a tie break of up to 28 minutes. And in rooms Denis Shapovalov. Eye. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

From weighing retirement to rising as the best

The aggressive game of the Canadian, one of the tennis players called to dominate world tennis in the coming years, put the Balearic against the ropes and was able to overcome a deficit of two sets down. However, Nadal recovered and reached the semifinals, where he also dismantled the ‘bombardier’ ​​Mario Berrettini (another who is very strong on the circuit).

Nadal is left alone in the Olympus of tennis

The Australian Open final against Daniiel Medvedev was another story. Major words, maximum demand and extreme suffering. This time the Russian put aside his most controversial side (against Tsitsipas Medvedev he called the referee stupid) and based on ‘aces’ and crossed backhands he put Rafa Nadal, one of the most talented tennis players of the Open era, on the ropes. .if not the largest in history. Of course, the Balearic pulled pride and got an epic comeback.

Nadal, better than Federer and Djokovic?

Nadal’s triumph at the 2022 Australian Open has allowed him to add his 21st Grand Slam title, thus undoing the equality that prevailed between Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer and the Balearic himself at the world tennis scepter. As if that were not enough, Rafa Nadal has another 36 Masters 1000 titles, in addition to 5 Davis Cups and 2 Olympic gold medals (one single and one in doubles). Taking these numbers into account, do you think Rafael Nadal is the best tennis player in history?

READ FULL STORY HERE>>...CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>
Continue Reading

Trending

error: Content is protected !!