The 2024 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is set to host the North American premiere of ALAZAR, a captivating short film by celebrated Ethiopian filmmaker Beza Hailu Lemma. Known for his thought-provoking narratives and masterful cinematic style, Lemma's latest work offers a powerful exploration of faith, tradition, and the human spirit set against the backdrop of contemporary Ethiopia.
ALAZAR first garnered attention at the prestigious Critics Week during the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, and now, TIFF audiences will have the opportunity to experience this remarkable story. The film transports viewers to a tranquil Ethiopian farming community where the sudden disappearance of a recently buried man disrupts the peaceful lives of its inhabitants. The narrative follows Tessema, the missing man's son, as he embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind his father's mysterious vanishing, challenging the miraculous explanations offered by the church.
Produced by Tamara Dawit of Gobez Media, a leading African-Canadian production company dedicated to amplifying African voices, ALAZAR is a testament to Ethiopia's rich cultural tapestry and the intricate interplay between faith and nature. The film, co-produced with Martin Jerome of Les Cigognes Films and in collaboration with Kidam and Condor, delves deep into the tensions between traditional beliefs and the often harsh realities of rural life in Ethiopia.
In discussing his inspiration for the film, writer/director Beza Hailu Lemma reflects, "Ethiopia has always been a land of diverse beliefs, where the rhythms of nature and the dictates of faith intertwine. ALAZAR seeks to delve into these complexities, offering a glimpse into the soul of a community grappling with loss and uncertainty."
ALAZAR is a significant milestone in Beza Hailu Lemma's career and a precursor to his upcoming feature film, The Last Tears of the Deceased, which will further explore the themes and motifs introduced in ALAZAR. The film's visual storytelling is brought to life by cinematographer Giorgos Valsamis, known for his work on acclaimed films like The Distance Between the Sky and Us (2019) and I Am Afraid to Forget Your Face (2020). Valsamis' collaboration with Lemma ensures that ALAZAR is not just a story told but a visual experience that resonates deeply with its audience.
The film is featured in TIFF’s Short Cuts 2024 program, a showcase of the best short films from around the world. It highlights the innovative spirit of filmmakers like Lemma, who are pushing the boundaries of cinematic storytelling.
Screening Dates and Times for ALAZAR at TIFF:
- Thursday, September 5th: Press + Industry Screening at Scotiabank Theatre (Toronto) - 8:30 AM
- Tuesday, September 10th: Public Screening at Scotiabank Theatre (Toronto) - 6:45 PM
- Saturday, September 14th: Public Screening at Scotiabank Theatre (Toronto) - 8:45 PM
ALAZAR is more than just a film; it's a testament to the collaborative spirit driving Africa's cinematic renaissance. With its North American premiere at TIFF, ALAZAR and the team behind it continue to push Ethiopian cinema onto the global stage, offering audiences an authentic and deeply moving portrayal of African storytelling.
Don't miss the chance to experience ALAZAR at TIFF 2024 and witness the brilliance of Ethiopian cinema in all its complexity and beauty.
