The Witches of the Orient

In preparation for this inspiring documentary, the French film crew and their translator took a year to establish rapport with the former volleyball players.

Full of touching moments from the interviewees, now in their 80s, we gained insight in their lasting friendship and dedication (they all worked morning shifts in a factory, then practised volleyball in the afternoon until late at night) from jaw-dropping training footage. Knowing the result of the 1964 Olympics volleyball final, the tournament footage is still exhilarating to watch, even today.

As the former teammates gathered at the lunch table, sharing their fond memories of each other's antics and nicknames, some players were sorely missing from the occasion (due to illness or have passed in recent years). I'm glad the legendary players have agreed to participate in this sports documentary, a timeless story to tell and to watch.