Ten-year-old Asalif transforms into a lion to confront the dangers posed by urban development and a hyena in his neighborhood near Addis Ababa.
“A boy fights back against modernization by becoming a lion (anbessa).”
Synopsis
Ten-year-old Asalif transforms into a lion to confront the dangers posed by urban development and a hyena in his neighborhood near Addis Ababa.
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Synopsis
Ten-year-old Asalif lives near Addis Ababa, where his family faces displacement due to condominium construction. As urban development encroaches on his farmland, Asalif confronts various challenges, including a menacing hyena in his neighborhood. To cope with these changes, he transforms into Anbessa, the lion, embodying a figure of strength and courage. Directed by Mo Scarpelli, the documentary captures Asalif's imaginative resistance against modernization while reflecting on the clash between tradition and contemporary life in Ethiopia.
What Critics Say
The GuardianAn irresistibly charismatic farm boy, displaced by a housing development on the outskirts of Ethiopia’s capital, is the star of this affecting documentary.
Deep Dive
Why Watch
- Meet Asalif, a boy turned lion in Addis Ababa.
- See the clash of tradition and modernity unfold.
- Find out how urban development affects cultural identity.
Did You Know
- Anbessa premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival in 2019.
- The film features a ten-year-old boy named Asalif who becomes a lion.
- Anbessa has a runtime of 86 minutes.
- The film was produced in three countries: the US, Ethiopia, and Italy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who directed the documentary Anbessa?
Anbessa was directed by Mo Scarpelli.
What is the main character's name in Anbessa?
The main character's name is Asalif.
What does the word 'anbessa' mean in Amharic?
'Anbessa' means 'lion' in Amharic.
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