Watch Cup Final

Cup Final is a 1991 war drama film written and directed by Israeli director Eran Riklis. The movie is set during the 1982 Lebanon War and tells the story of Cohen (Moshe Ivgy), an Israeli soldier who is captured by the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), and is held captive along with other Israeli prisoners of war. Cohen, who is a passionate football fan, is taken to a remote corner of Lebanon to be guarded by a Palestinian militant named Fahed (Mohammad Bakri). The story revolves mainly around the relationship that develops between Cohen and Fahed over the course of the film.

At first, the relationship between the two men is hostile, with Cohen constantly taunting Fahed and trying to escape. Fahed, who is a serious and committed soldier, remains indifferent to Cohen's provocations. However, as the days go by, the two men start to talk to each other and learn about each other's lives. During one of their conversations, they discover that they both love football, and specifically - they both support the Italian football club Juventus. They decide to make a deal: if Juventus wins the Cup Final that is taking place in a few days, Fahed will let Cohen go free.

The rest of the movie follows Cohen and Fahed as they follow the progress of the Cup Final by listening to the radio broadcasts. The two men are shown listening to the game together in a room that also serves as their prison cell. As the match progresses, the two men begin to form a bond that transcends their nationalities and political views. They joke, chant and dance together, all the while hoping that their team will come out victorious.

While the plot may seem simple, the film delves deep into the complex relationships between the two sides involved in the conflict. The movie is a testament to the power of sport in bringing people together and breaking down barriers. It highlights the humanity of people who are usually portrayed as "enemies" and emphasizes the idea that despite their differences, people are more alike than they are different.

The movie's strength lies in the performances of the lead actors, Moshe Ivgy and Mohammad Bakri. They both deliver powerful and nuanced performances that convey the emotions and conflicts that their characters go through. Ivgy's portrayal of Cohen is particularly striking, as he manages to convey both the character's bravado and vulnerability. Bakri, on the other hand, brings a sense of calm and dignity to the role of Fahed.

The film is also notable for its depiction of the war in Lebanon, which is both realistic and respectful. The scenes of battle are intense, but not overly graphic, and the movie avoids glorifying violence. Instead, it focuses on the human toll that war takes on both sides.

In conclusion, Cup Final is a well-crafted and emotionally engaging movie that offers a unique perspective on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It shows that even in times of war, there is room for compassion and understanding. The film is a must-watch for anyone interested in the subject matter or for anyone who enjoys a good sports drama.