First Armenian Sports Drama "The Other Side of the Medal" Premieres, Telling the Inspiring Story of Weightlifter Nazik Avdalyan

The highly anticipated Armenian sports drama, “The Other Side of the Medal”, has premiered in Yerevan, marking a major moment in Armenian cinema. The film tells the inspiring true story of Nazik Avdalyan, a renowned Armenian weightlifter who overcame severe challenges to become a double world and European champion. Directed, produced, and scripted by Anna Maxim, who also stars as the lead character, the film presents an emotional and powerful portrayal of resilience, determination, and triumph.

The film, based on real-life events, focuses on Avdalyan's journey from tragedy to triumph. In 2010, following a devastating car accident, Avdalyan suffered severe injuries that left her unable to compete in weightlifting for seven years. Despite the physical pain, emotional hardship, and the doubts of those around her, she made a remarkable return to the sport. Her determination led her to win gold medals at the European Weightlifting Championships, proving that with willpower and an unbreakable spirit, nothing is impossible.

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Anna Maxim’s portrayal of Avdalyan is filled with passion and depth, capturing both the physical and emotional challenges that Avdalyan faced during her recovery and comeback. The film showcases her journey not only as a sportswoman but also as a symbol of perseverance for many Armenians and sports enthusiasts worldwide.

“The Other Side of the Medal” features a talented ensemble of actors including Sos Janibekyan, Khoren Levonyan, Mkrtich Arzumanyan, Babken Chobanyan, Davit Hakobyan, Artashes Aleksanyan, and Anahit Kocharyan. The film's cinematography, helmed by Suren Tadevosyan, beautifully captures the highs and lows of Avdalyan's life, while the music composed by Andranik Berberyan adds emotional depth to the storytelling. Armen Ghazaryan served as the film's artist, further enhancing its visual and thematic impact.

Nazik Avdalyan, born in 1986 in Gyumri, Armenia, is a national hero whose achievements have left a lasting legacy in Armenian sports history. She became the first Armenian woman to win a gold medal at the World Weightlifting Championships in 2009, breaking barriers and setting new standards for female athletes in the country. Avdalyan’s story is a testament to her relentless spirit, from her early career to her victorious return to weightlifting after years of recovery.

Having started as an acrobat before transitioning to weightlifting at age 18, Avdalyan quickly rose to prominence on the international stage. Her major achievements include winning the 2008 European Championships, securing a gold medal at the 2009 World Championships, and making a triumphant comeback at the 2016 European Weightlifting Championships after a seven-year hiatus.

Her remarkable resilience following the car accident in 2010, which threatened to end her career, is at the heart of “The Other Side of the Medal”. The film highlights not only her personal and physical challenges but also her perseverance in the face of adversity, offering a powerful message of hope and determination.

“The Other Side of the Medal” is more than just a sports drama; it is a tribute to Armenian resilience, culture, and the indomitable human spirit. Through the life of Nazik Avdalyan, the film highlights the importance of overcoming obstacles and pushing through difficulties to achieve greatness. 

The film has received praise for its accurate portrayal of real-life events and for bringing to light Avdalyan's journey, which is often described as a source of pride for Armenians. The dedication of Anna Maxim, not only in her performance but also in her role as producer, director, and scriptwriter, is evident throughout the movie.

Following its premiere, “The Other Side of the Medal” will continue to screen at various venues. One notable upcoming screening will take place on October 13 at the AGBU Performance Art Center in Los Angeles, where it is expected to draw a large audience, including members of the Armenian diaspora and sports enthusiasts. 

The film has already generated considerable interest within Armenian communities both in Armenia and abroad, with many looking forward to its wide release.