Set to open this year’s edition of the Toronto International Film Festival, “The Swimmers” depicts two refugees’ epic journey from war-torn Syria to the 2016 Rio Olympics. A newly released trailer for the drama introduces us to Yursa (Nathalie Issa) and Sara (Manal Issa), sisters who find themselves fleeing their home in Damascus with the hope of finding safety in Europe.
“We need to move forward. You’re not allowed to give up,” the sisters remind one another.
The spot includes glimpses of Yursa and Sara in Syria, in a particularly dangerous stretch of the Mediterranean sea, and at the Olympics.
Based on a true story, “The Swimmers” marks Sally El Hosaini’s feature debut. She also penned the film’s script with Jack Throne.
“The Swimmers” makes its world premiere at TIFF September 8 and hits Netflix and select theaters November 23.
