In 2015, Ossamah Al Mohsen and his 8-year-old son were tripped up by a TV reporter as they attempted to cross the Hungarian border. The moment was captured on film, and it soon became one of the most iconic images of the Syrian conflict. The footage appalled the world, and Osama was thrust into the limelight, becoming a reluctant symbol of the unfair treatment of migrants. The unfortunate incident and resulting media interest nevertheless allowed Ossamah, a famous soccer coach in his home country of Syria, to arrive in Madrid and resume his profession. But the rest of his family did not have the same luck.

The film follows the story of Ossamah and his family as they desperately try to reunite with each other. We also meet Moatassam, Youssef and Muhannad, three promising Syrian footballers who were robbed of the best years of their lives by war. 'Hayati' is a powerful reflection on the fate of thousands of Syrian families displaced around the world, all hoping to return home one day or find a new one where they are.