Playoff Poster

Playoff 2011

★ 4.511 votes107 min📅 2011-11-24

Eran Riklis' *Playoff (2011)* immerses viewers in a gripping Cold War-era drama set against the unlikely backdrop of 1980s basketball.

Director: Eran Riklis

Cast

Danny Huston
Danny Huston
Max Stoller
Amira Casar
Amira Casar
Deniz
Mark Waschke
Mark Waschke
Axel
Max Riemelt
Max Riemelt
Thomas
Hanns Zischler
Hanns Zischler
Franz
Selen Savas
Sema
Smadi Wolfman
Smadi Wolfman
Ronit
Andreas Eufinger
Ulrich
Mathias von Heidenbrandt
Dieter
Irm Hermann
Irm Hermann
Bertha

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Playoff (2011) about?

Set in the 1980s, *Playoff (2011)* tells the story of an Israeli refugee, ostracized as a traitor in his home country, who takes on the daunting task of coaching West Germany's basketball team. His mission isn't just about winning games—it's about reclaiming his identity and finding a path forward.

Who directed Playoff?

The film was directed by Eran Riklis, known for his evocative storytelling in films like *The Lemon Tree*.

Who stars in Playoff?

The cast features Danny Huston in the lead role, alongside Amira Casar, Mark Waschke, Max Riemelt, and Hanns Zischler.

Is Playoff (2011) worth watching?

*Playoff (2011)* is a hidden gem for drama fans, offering a unique blend of sports action and emotional depth. While it may not be widely known, its themes of redemption and resilience make it a compelling watch for those who appreciate character-driven narratives.

How long is Playoff?

The runtime of *Playoff (2011)* is 107 minutes.

About Playoff (2011) — The Unlikely Coach's Journey to Redemption on the Basketball Court

Eran Riklis' *Playoff (2011)* immerses viewers in a gripping Cold War-era drama set against the unlikely backdrop of 1980s basketball. The film follows an Israeli refugee, branded a traitor in his homeland, as he takes on the extraordinary challenge of coaching West Germany's national basketball team. With the weight of history and personal redemption pressing on his shoulders, his journey becomes a powerful exploration of identity, forgiveness, and second chances. The atmosphere crackles with tension, blending the raw energy of competitive sports with the emotional depth of a man wrestling with his past.

Danny Huston delivers a standout performance as the disgraced coach, surrounded by a talented cast including Amira Casar and Mark Waschke, who bring layers of complexity to their roles. *Playoff* isn't just a sports film—it's a poignant character study that uses the court as a stage for healing and resilience. Riklis crafts a visually striking narrative where every dribble and dunk feels charged with meaning, making this a must-watch for fans of thoughtful, character-driven cinema.