Matinee

Series/Themes: Jewish and Israeli Voices

Genre: Drama, International

Accessibility: Subtitles

Film Year: 2018

Locations: Ethiopia, Israel, Germany

Film Length: 93 min.

Languages: Amharic

Subtitles: Subtitled

Director: Aäläm-Wärqe Davidian

Featuring: Betalehem Asmamawe, Yohanes Muse, Weyenshiet Belachew, Mareta Getachew, Mitiku Haylu, Kidest G/Selasse, Tilahune Asagere, Rodas Gizaw

Set in 1989, director Aäläm-Wärqe Davidian’s feature debut follows 16-year-old Mina as she navigates coming of age in the midst of the Ethiopian Civil War. As their Jewish faith jeopardizes their safety, Mina, her brother, and their grandmother make plans to flee Ethiopia for Israel, where the children’s mother awaits. The plan, however, requires Mina to leave behind Eli, her Christian boyfriend—although not without protest. Inspired by her own memories of growing up in war-torn Ethiopia, director Aäläm-Wärqe Davidian crafts a film that blurs the lines between the mundane and the extraordinary, exposing the impact of civil war on the lives of ordinary people. Introduction by Ilya Tovbis (VAFF)