DIVA talks to the writer and director about this football film
BY YASMIN VINCE, IMAGES BY STATIC FLOW PRODUCTIONS
This is the short film to look out for if you’re a football fan. As Solers United, a grassroots womxn’s football team, faces eviction, tension grows between teammates, Nelly and Bills. In enters new striker Sals, whose looks are as impressive as her footwork. Bills can’t help but envy the instant connection Sals has to Nelly. As emotions reach boiling point, can Nelly and Bills put their differences aside for the good of the team?
Ahead of the film’s screening at BFI Flare, we spoke to its writer and director, Sara Harrak.
Was there a specific moment or reference point which inspired your film?
This film was inspired by my own 5-aside team called Bangers FC based in East London. I remember when I first joined them, we would play twice a week and hang out too. It is such a great community and I wanted to be able to share and highlight this special and unique team relationship with others that exists not just in football, but in all team sports.
What was the most unexpected lesson you learned while making this film?
On this film, I was very fortunate to have a big production team. Learning to let go of control and allow my producers to do their magic has been a great lesson for me.
How does it feel to have your film showcased at BFI Flare?
It truly is a dream. Being a very ‘British’ film and queer, I wouldn’t want to have its world premiere anywhere else except Flare. It’s the audience that it was made for!
Why do you think LGBTQIA filmmaking is so important in 2025?
Filmmaking for the LGBTQIA community will always be important no matter what the year. Things are consistently changing and developing, some for the better, some for worse and so, as filmmakers, we are just highlighting what’s happening around us. My films are generally comedies with heart and I like to show the change.
What LGBTQIA film inspired you?
Bottoms by Emma Seligman. It’s bold and absolutely HILARIOUS!
This year’s Flare is split into the themes of Hearts, Bodies and Minds. Do you have an LGBTQIA film that affected your heart, body or mind?
Nyad. It shows the importance of friendship within our community. The power of it is beautiful and I think they showed this so well. This is what I hope to have reflected also in my film Solers United.
What’s the best piece of advice you received whilst working on this film and what advice would you give to emerging filmmakers?
It was actually from one of my producers which was to aim high and then work our way down. My advice is to always have the mindset “don’t ask, don’t get”. People want to help and let them.
Also don’t wait for anyone to tell you to make a film just get it done! You will be surprised at how powerful your drive and passion towards your film can ignite others!
What do you hope LGBTQIA audiences take away from the film?
A reflection of community and that they feel they can relate to any one of those characters. Maybe even that they want to be a part of what these characters have, which is a loving community albeit sometimes quite odd! There’s always a community for everyone, especially in London.
What’s one question you wish more people would ask about your film?
Who plays the niqab opposing coach – as the answer would be my sister! You are always utilising the people around you in shorts! It’s important for me to be representing my own background and also grassroots football is one of the most diverse and I wanted to represent that with real people.
If you were to add one of the Lionesses in this film, who would you pick and why?
Lucy Bronze, 100%. I can’t say a lot about the reason but let’s say with the TV series, I want to incorporate her in there (wink, wink). We will give you a ring Lucy!
Solers United screens as part of the 39th BFI Flare: London LGBTQIA+ Film Festival on Sunday 29 March. For further details and tickets here
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