Mario (2018) Plot Summary Explained

Mario is an aspiring football player currently competing in a fifth-tier league near Thun. He shows great promise as a player and works diligently alongside his agent and father, Max Hubacher, in hopes of advancing to the 1st League the following season. During this period, the team recruits another striker, Aaron Altaras, who hails from Hanover. The two players quickly hit it off, forming a bond that leads to them sharing an apartment near the training field, ultimately developing a romantic relationship.

Despite their feelings for each other, both Mario and Leon face pressure from their agents and the football community to keep their relationship under wraps. They are cautioned against revealing their sexuality, as their agents fear that publicizing such a relationship could jeopardize their careers and the "image" associated with professional football. Reluctantly, they comply, making superficial attempts to appear straight by engaging in public outings with women. Unfortunately, they also encounter covert hostility from some teammates, adding strain to their already complex situation. This culminates in a rift between Mario and his father over the pressures of concealing his true self.

The situation intensifies when Leon discovers a dildo hidden in his trousers during a locker room incident, prompting him to confront the team about who might have planted it. In a moment of tension, Mario, who has just learned of his acceptance to play in the first league, tries to diffuse the situation by claiming to be in a relationship with his "girlfriend," who is actually his best friend, Jessy Moravec. Leon feels betrayed and hurt by Mario's public denial of their love, which leads him to leave the team and return to Germany.

Devastated by Leon's departure, Mario throws himself into training, eventually attracting contract offers from both his local club and one in Hamburg. Mario's father, in an effort to provide emotional support, convinces Jenny to accompany him to these meetings. He scores the winning goal in his first match of the new season, which earns him significant media attention. However, while posing as a couple with Jenny, she ultimately confesses that she can no longer pretend.

Seeking redemption, Mario visits Leon to apologize for his past behavior. Leon, now competing in regional football to alleviate stress, has found a new partner. He shares with Mario that living a lie had begun to take a toll on his mental health, causing nightmares and despair. Mario listens intently but admits that he lacks the courage to leave football in order to be open about his sexuality.

The film culminates in another match where Mario once again scores a goal, symbolizing the ongoing struggles and triumphs he faces both on the field and in his personal life.