Grappling Grace

Editor

A heartfelt film about Saeed Esmaeli, an Iranian-British wrestler-dancer who runs an unconventional healing dojo inside a church. When his mother suffers a stroke, he’s forced to confront his own teachings, revealing a humorous and deeply human story about resilience and connection.

Winner - Committee Choice Award - Bali International Film Festival 2026 (Oscar qualifying)

Winner - Best Documentary - Sadler's Wells Dance Digital 2026

Winner - Best Documentary - Sicilian Film Awards

Winner - Best Documentary - London Film Club

Winner - Best Documentary - Kiez Berlin Film Festival 

Winner - Best Documentary - Paris Bridge of Peace Festival

Winner - Best Story - Experimental Film & Music Video Festival

Winner - The South West Award - Bristol Documentary Film Festival

Official Selection: San Jose International Short Film Festival 2026 (Oscar Qualifying)

Official Selection: Brooklyn Film Festival 2026

Official Selection: LightReel Film Festival 2026

Official Selection: Barcelona Indie Film Festival 2026

Official Selection: MYTH: Social Impact Film Awards

Producer/ Directors: Alex Kiehl & Misha Novak