Too Far Away

In the coal and steel heartlands of Western Germany, twelve-year-old Ben’s village has been condemned, soon to be swallowed up by an open-pit mine. He and his family are forced to move. Homesick and bullied at his new school, Ben’s passion for soccer keeps him going until he encounters eleven-year-old Tariq on the pitch. He’s also a newcomer, originally from Syria, and a much better player who threatens Ben’s longed-for position as the team’s striker. What starts as jealous rivalry grows into a brotherhood, offering the boys a feeling of belonging to cling to in their unfamiliar new homes. 

The feature debut by Sarah Winkenstette, also known for her 2024 children’s film favorite Greetings from Mars, Too Far Away is a charming comedy-drama that investigates children’s experiences of displacement, their bonding over shared passions and shared losses, and the evergreen power of working together. Watch the trailer!

Streaming as a part of “Breaking Lines”. The triumphs of teamwork, broken glass ceilings, the devotion of fandom—soccer lovers of all stripes find solidarity and perseverance both on and off the field. To mark the 2026 FIFA World Cup’s arrival in North America this summer, this collection of films celebrates the empowering, unifying force of “the beautiful game”. Stream for free through July 31! 

Image © Weydemann Bros. GmbH