Mediawan and Goodfellas' Round 12 announce their acquisition of Lina Soualem's documentary on Algerian boxer Imane Khelif ahead of its TIFF launch.
Mediawan and Goodfellas' Round 12 have announced that they have secured sales for the documentary Imane Khelif: Still Fighting, directed by Lina Soualem. This significant film focuses on the journey of the female Algerian boxer, whose recent success at the Paris 2024 Olympics ignited a considerable political debate. The announcement was made ahead of its launch at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).
Soualem’s documentary represents the first of its kind about Khelif, positioning it as both a personal narrative and a broader commentary on womanhood in sports. The project is a continuation of Soualem’s work, following her award-winning films such as Bye Bye Tiberias and Their Algeria.
Imane Khelif's triumph at the Paris 2024 Olympics has not only placed her in the spotlight as a pioneering athlete—it also unleashed significant discussions regarding gender equity in sports. Khelif, who won gold in the women's 66 kg (145 pounds) welterweight category, faced backlash following challenges to her gender eligibility. This scrutiny stemmed mainly from her disqualification alongside Taiwanese boxer Lin Yu-ting during the Women’s World Championships in March 2023, due to alleged gender eligibility tests. While social media debates turned nasty, casting doubts on her identity, these allegations have repeatedly been dismissed as false.
Imane Khelif: Still Fighting delves into Khelif’s life, illustrating her evolution from obscurity to Olympic champion. The documentary aims to highlight her daily experiences as an athlete in a tumultuous political landscape. At its core, the film explores dual battles: one for Khelif’s right to compete and another for her recognition as a woman. Soualem expresses a desire not only to showcase Khelif’s strength but also to raise larger questions about the societal perceptions of female athletes.
The documentary is currently in production, having commenced in May 2025, and it features discussions with sports officials, family, and fellow competitors. This collaborative approach aims to provide a well-rounded narrative surrounding Khelif's exceptional journey.
Soualem commented on the importance of the documentary, asserting that it captures complex societal views on female strength and identity. She aims to give Khelif a platform to express her truth amidst the ongoing controversy regarding her athletic and gender identity. The film is expected to resonate with audiences beyond sports, addressing broader issues of gender roles and recognition.
The production is backed by Mediawan-owned Black Dynamite Production, which has previously been involved with notable documentaries and productions, enhancing the project's credibility.
As Imane Khelif: Still Fighting gears up for its TIFF launch, the documentary’s focus on a contemporary issue in sports sheds light on ongoing conversations about gender equity and representation. Given Khelif's notable challenges, audiences may find the film impactful for both its personal and social implications. As with many documentaries, its reception at TIFF could shape its trajectory in both festivals and subsequent distribution.
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