Forbidden Games: The Justin Fashanu Story

Forbidden Games: The Justin Fashanu Story is an incisive and penetrating 2017 documentary film that probes the life and times of one of football's most controversial and divisive figures, Justin Fashanu. The film stars Justin Fashanu himself, his brother John Fashanu, and Bevan Celestine.

This powerful documentary tells the gripping tale of the dazzling rise and tragic fall of Justin Fashanu, the first openly gay professional footballer. The film offers viewers an intimate tour of Justin's pugnacious life, marked by formidable talents, audacious choices, and devastating circumstances. Experience the potent blend of pride and prejudice, triumph and tragedy, grit and glamour that make up the complex fabric of Justin's life and career.

At its heart, Forbidden Games delves into the often tumultuous relationship between Justin and his younger brother John, a fellow professional footballer. The film does a fantastic job of portraying the friction and, at times, bitter animosity between the brothers, heavily driven by Justin's sexuality and his decision to come out publicly in an era where societal attitudes towards homosexuality were far from accepting. Their intricate relationship is brought to life through a series of interviews, archival footage, and dramatic reenactments, providing a new level of understanding and perspective to this aspect of the story.

A prominent aspect of Forbidden Games is its unflinching critique of the systemic prejudice and homophobia that permeated British society and the footballing world during Justin’s playing career. It addresses head-on how these societal barriers adversely affected his life and career.

The film includes riveting interviews with friends, family, and footballing colleagues. Their testimonials provide crucial insights, painting a nuanced portrait of a man who, despite his flaws and the external forces working against him, refused to conform to societal norms.

Featuring Justin Fashanu himself, the documentary incorporates previously unseen footage and exclusive interviews demonstrating his vibrant persona, his fierce tenacity, and the tumultuous journey he undertook in his struggle for acceptance, both professionally and personally.

Meanwhile, John Fashanu’s presence in the documentary significantly highlights the complexities of their fraternal relationship. Balancing his struggles with his brother's controversial decisions with his own journey in the cut-throat world of football, John's narrative provides a touchstone that grounds the film in the harsh realities of their shared experience.

Bevan Celestine, a close friend of Justin, embodies the voice of support and friendship throughout Justin's struggles. His perspective adds depth and nuance to the layers of the narrative, further personifying Justin's human experiences beyond his football and media persona.

The inclusion of unseen personal and Football Association archive material adds a layer of authenticity and vividness to the narrative. Viewers are given a front-row seat to pivotal moments in Justin's life, both on and off the field, as they follow his journey from the highs of athletic acclaim to the lows of personal crisis.

The documentary also adeptly addresses Justin's post-football life, exploring Justin's move to North America, his legal troubles, and the tragic decision he eventually makes, painting a full, unvarnished portrait of the man behind the headlines.

Directors Jon Carey and Adam Darke skillfully encapsulate all aspects of Justin’s life, tackling sensitive subjects with respect and objectivity. Their deft narrative and visual style pulls no punches as it depicts the harsh realities of Justin’s life while capturing the vibrancy of his personality and the broader cultural moments in which his life unfolded.

In overall, Forbidden Games: The Justin Fashanu Story is a compelling, heartbreaking, and often shocking exploration of the intersection of fame, sport, and sexuality. It provides a powerful reflection on society's attitudes towards homosexuality in sport, particularly football, and the impact it had and continues to have on the lives of players like Justin Fashanu. Though Justin's tale is one of profound sadness, the film also serves as a celebration of his life, his unique place in football history, and his ongoing legacy. His story, as presented here, is a potent reminder of the struggle for acceptance so many continue to face, and the courage it takes to defy societal norms and live openly and authentically.