Omari is an Eritrean refugee living in Israel whose home is raided by immigration officers. During an attempt to escape deportation at the airport, he is mistaken for a talented Nigerian soccer player, the latest acquisition by Israel’s Maccabi Netanya. Despite zero soccer skills, Omari hides his identity, enjoying his new lavish lifestyle. He helps to heal racial divisions between his own teammates and a tender romantic bond develops with the charming daughter of the team owner. Anchored by a diverse ensemble cast, Running on Sand is a charming antidote to our polarizing times.
“Hits the sweet spot between a truly light-hearted comedy and a real drama…[with] a heartfelt message about treating people with respect, no matter where they are from.” –The Jerusalem Post