The Swimmers

Yusra and Sarah Mardini live a joyful life with their parents Ezzat and Mervat Mardini. Their father, a swimming coach, dreams of one day seeing his daughters compete in the Olympics, and both girls train rigorously under his guidance.

The outbreak of the Syrian revolution ignites a brutal civil war, disrupting the girls' lives and training. As the conflict escalates, they realize that their hopes of competing in the Olympics are slipping further out of reach.

While training, Yusra and Sarah face regular harassment from Assad’s forces at various checkpoints throughout the city. This increasingly oppressive environment makes it clear that remaining in Syria is no longer safe for them.

Despite their father's concerns about the dangers of migration, Yusra and Sarah decide to leave Syria and migrate to Germany. Their father gives them 10,000 euros to help them start a new life in Europe, hoping they can still pursue their swimming careers.

The sisters travel to Istanbul, Turkey, where they meet their cousin Nizar. He finds a smuggler who will take them across the Aegean Sea to Lesbos, Greece, despite their initial reservations about the treacherous journey.

Packed into a dinghy with other refugees, the group faces disaster when the boat begins to sink. Yusra and Sarah bravely jump into the water to swim alongside the dinghy to prevent it from sinking, ultimately saving 18 other refugees.

After an harrowing ordeal at sea, the sisters and the refugees finally reach the shores of Greece. They confront the harsh realities of refugee life, including denial of services and basic aid as they navigate their new environment.

Yusra and Sarah face multiple challenges on their journey, including being abandoned by smugglers and financial exploitation. However, they remain determined to reach Germany, where they believe there are better opportunities.

During a smuggling attempt, Yusra and Sarah are separated while traveling in different cars. They endure a traumatic experience after a rape attempt and take refuge in hiding, forcing them to rely on one another for safety and support.

After an arduous journey, the sisters finally reach Berlin, set to start anew. They are placed in a refugee camp where they endure a long wait for their asylum papers amid cramped living conditions.

Yusra finds a local swimming club where coach Sven recognizes her talent. His encouragement propels her towards training for the Olympics, reigniting her dreams amidst the challenges they face as refugees.

Yusra learns about the IOC's initiative to form a refugee team for the upcoming Rio 2016 Olympics. Motivated by this opportunity, she trains intensively to qualify for a spot on the team, showcasing her determination.

Yusra competes at the Rio 2016 Olympics as part of the Refugee Olympic Team, facing skepticism and discrimination. Supported by her sister Sarah, she swims valiantly and manages to win her heat in the 100m butterfly event.

After the Olympics, Sarah decides to return to Lesbos to help other refugees. During her efforts, she faces legal troubles and arrests, underscoring the ongoing struggles faced by displaced individuals.

Later in the year, Yusra's remaining family members make the perilous crossing to reunite in Berlin. This culmination of their journey signifies hope amidst their challenging experiences as refugees.