Teza

Teza is an Ethiopian movie that was released in 2008. The film, written and directed by Haile Gerima - an independent filmmaker and professor of film at Howard University - presents a unique narrative that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries. Teza is a stirring feature starring Aaron Arefe in the lead role, alongside Abiye Tedla and Takelech Beyene.

The film is described as an emotional and thought-provoking journey, painting a compelling portrait of post-colonial Africa and its struggle to reconcile tradition with modernity. Through the movie, Gerima provides viewers with a rich tapestry of psychological and historical insights, highlighting not only the challenges faced by the characters in the movie, but also those encountered by entire nations after periods of upheaval.

Teza is focused on an Ethiopian man, Anberber, played by Aaron Arefe. Anberber has been studying medicine in Germany for many years. He is drawn back to his native land, but when he returns, he finds it ravaged by war and famine. This creates a tense and often heartbreaking dichotomy seen through the character's eyes: understanding and accepting the stark reality that faces his homeland while bearing the knowledge and experiences he gathered abroad. In one world, he finds a place ridden with crises, while the other is filled with opportunities and developments only seen in dreams back home.

Abiye Tedla plays Assefa, Anberber’s younger brother who stays in Ethiopia and becomes politically active. The contrast of the brothers' lives provides poignant commentary on the ideological divide in post-war Ethiopia.

Takelech Beyene portrays their mother and does a masterful job of adding depth to her role. She represents the rural Ethiopian population and serves as an emotional anchor in the film, symbolizing resilience, enduring love, and uncompromised loyalty towards her nation and her kin.

Teza beautifully intertwines the private and political turmoil of its protagonist, shedding light on the gradual devastation of the human spirit when confronted with untenable circumstances. Alongside this narrative line runs a deeper message, questioning the relative values of tradition and modernity, each represented by the contrasted landscapes of Ethiopia and Germany, and reflected in the drastically contrasting lives of the two brothers.

The cinematography of Teza is instrumental in bringing the large geopolitical themes to life. With sweeping shots of the Ethiopian countryside juxtaposed with the urban landscapes of Germany, it visually reinforces the protagonist's deeply personal struggle to reconcile his past experiences and present reality. The shifts between past and present are also notable, utilizing flashbacks to give the audience glimpses of the central character's past life and the reasons behind his despair.

Another element worthy of note in Teza is its ethical weight. Gerima asks hard questions through the presentation of Anberber's trials. The protagonist's struggles to make ethical decisions in the face of complex political, societal, and personal pressures, contributes significantly to the film's intellectual rigor, emotional depth, and historical significance.

The film successfully earned acclaim locally and internationally for its powerful storytelling and cinematic brilliance. It won a series of awards, including the Special Jury Prize and the Best Screenplay at the 65th Venice International Film Festival. With Teza, Gerima demonstrates his formidable talent and vision as a filmmaker and shines a spotlight on the unique narratives that African cinema has to offer.

Teza leaves a resonating impact by successfully exploring both the psychology of its individual characters and the politically charged environment of its time. It is a film that demands its viewers to reconsider a multitude of perspectives and serves as a testament to the multifaceted experiences and lived realities in post-colonial Africa. By drawing upon real events and personal experiences, Gerima delivers a movie that is both a historical document and a compelling, heartfelt narrative. It's a cinematic experience not to miss, particularly for those seeking to understand and appreciate diverse viewpoints and narratives from different parts of the world.