Following the death of his wife, Meseganio Tadelo (played by Debebe Eshtu) gathers his children and announces that he will be selling the family apartment, and will live with them for the rest of his life. As dramatized in Red Leaves (IndiePix Films), the debut feature by Israeli-Ethiopian director Bazi Gete, Meseganio’s decision is not welcomed; and serious generational clashes develop when Papa actually starts staying with his children and their families. Eshtu, in a bravura performance, is alternately saddened and outraged by what he finds in the homes of his progeny. The drama puts one in mind of an August Wilson play, as families the whole world round suffer from similar dysfunctions. Red Leaves is available on DVD, and via streaming on IndiePixUnlimited.com or Amazon Channels. — Mordecai Specktor
(American Jewish World, 8.11.17)
