Saved events

UK Premiere: Anbessa (PG*) + ScreenTalk

Human Rights Watch Film Festival 2019

Anbessa

Filmmaker and camerawoman Mo Scarpelli traces one boy's journey as he takes on modernisation on his own terms.

The biggest condominium complex in East Africa, on the outskirts of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, promises thousands of people a better way of life. It’s being constructed, however, on the farmland of 10-year-old Asalif and his mother, leaving them just a tool shed with no electricity or running water.

Anbessa is a lyrical documentary that takes us on a journey of childhood adventuring and magical realism as we accompany a creative, sensitive and bold young boy using his imagination and sharp wits to battle forces beyond his control, and escape the stark reality of displacement. Meanwhile, the city is growing around them and new property developers are knocking at their door.   

Official Selection, Berlinale International Film Festival 2019, Nominee Crystal Bear, Generation Kplus - Best Film

Italy/Ethiopia/US 2018 Dir Mo Scarpelli 84 min

* = locally classified by the City of London Corporation

Please arrive promptly at the advertised start time

Proof of ID may be requested on entry to films, in compliance with BBFC ratings

See more film for less

Get 20% off tickets and pay no booking fees. Plus, enjoy priority booking and £6 Members’ Screenings of the latest films every Sunday (T&Cs apply)

Barbican Cinema 2