African football (you know, the one we play with our feet, not the one that looks more like rugby with pads), has a higher profile and more global stars than at any other time in history. But what does it takes to make the transition from a rural African field to a top European football club? If he’s good enough, how does a young African come to the attention of Real Madrid or Manchester United?

Football Fables, the debut documentary from director Baff Akoto, is a unique documentary – providing unprecedented insight into the inner workings of African football tradition and migration. This film unfolds through the eyes of Francis, a talented teenager on the brink of a dream transfer; his talent is undoubted; his desire immeasurable; but will that be enough to secure his future?

Francis’ journey sheds light on the relationships between talented young players, agents, managers and bureaucrats. A combination which (in spite of itself) manages to produce some of the best players in the world.

It made its debut this month at Rassegna Cinematografica International in Palermo, Italy, where it won 2 major awards – Best Foreign Film & Best Screenplay.

This is a film I have to see, so I certainly hope it comes my way eventually. Stay tuned.

Here’s its trailer: