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Sometimes the biggest victories happen off the field...


Fesival Laurels

Ultimate Citizens is the story of Jamshid Khajavi, an extraordinary 65-year-old Iranian American public school counselor who uses the sport of Ultimate Frisbee to help children heal. In an America where many families are quietly, barely getting by, Mr. Jamshid coaches an underdog team of kids on their way to compete in the world’s largest youth tournament. ULTIMATE CITIZENS is a celebration of resilience and belonging, and the third independent feature documentary from award-winning filmmaker Francine Strickwerda.

52 & 39 minutes
English SDH captions

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Written, Produced & Directed by Francine Strickwerda
Executive Producer: Tracy Dethlefs
Editors: Nate Lessler, Gabe Shelton-Jenck, Charlie Spears
Cinematography: Doug Plummer, Francine Strickwerda, Nakean Wickliff
"Imagine a documentary brimming with vibrant colors, where this very brightness captures the essence of the human spirit through stunning visuals...That's what Ultimate Citizens is."
Mari Ghviniashvili, The Athletic Coup Film Festival
"The kids' stories too often extend beyond poor or homeless poor. Sometimes they've come from a violent, war-torn, foreign place. Jamshid, seemingly here, there, and everywhere, communicating his ordinary superhero wisdom, grows his kids into ordinary 'Ultimate Citizens.'"
Chuck Jaffee, Wild and Scenic Film Festival

"Ultimate Citizens is a powerful story of the inspirational support Jamshid Khajavi provides to youth dealing with hardships. Providing a glimpse into his own life, the documentary illustrates how ultimate frisbee is just one way in which Jamshid uplifts youth in his quest to build community."
Mitchell McSweeney, Assistant Professor of Sport Management, University of Minnesota

"It is impossible to watch this film without feeling a burst of much-needed hope and a desire to be a better person. With a gift for fostering resilience even in the most vulnerable children, Jamshid Khajavi is a model for teachers, administrators, and counselors. Each moment of this story is a beautiful illustration of culturally sustaining care in action. This film reminds us that every child is our collective responsibility, and it invites us to help young people realize their potential to thrive by honoring their stories, listening closely, and reminding them over and over that they are valued and loved."
Sonia M. Rosen, Associate Director of Inquiry and Reflective Practice, Independent School Teaching Residency, University of Pennsylvania

"They are refugees from war. They are homeless. Their parents work multiple jobs and still can't keep up with bills. They are champions...Ultimate Citizens reveals their struggles, growth and triumphs on and off the field."
Nils Dahlgren, Seattle's Child

"Ultimate Citizens showcases the power of sport and connection, transcending languages, cultures and hardship. The film tells these stories with compassion and intrigue. You are rooting for this coach and team to win a championship but also succeed in life's journey. Highly recommended."
Emi FitzGerald Luk, Senior Director,Saatchi and Saatchi, Dallas Ultimate Association player/coach

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