Robin Dimet’s heartfelt documentary follows Sami, who has spent nearly two decades translating classical mythology into Amharic, to the detriment of other parts of his life
In Robin Dimet’s heartfelt documentary, literary translation is a lonely, precarious pursuit. Living in a rudimentarily furnished home in Ethiopia’s capital Addis Ababa, sixtysomething Sami has spent nearly two decades translating Greek mythology into Amharic. Slight in frame, the reticent figure only lights up when he speaks of his colossal project, which has grown into an all-consuming obsession. The book has overwhelmed all other aspects of his life, leaving friends, relatives and Sami’s own wellbeing in the rearview mirror.
The film often observes him from a distance, as he moves across a fragmented, fluctuating urban landscape sprouting with towering new developments. Here is a man who, because of his ardent passion, is perpetually out of step with the times. In spite of his bashfulness,...
In Robin Dimet’s heartfelt documentary, literary translation is a lonely, precarious pursuit. Living in a rudimentarily furnished home in Ethiopia’s capital Addis Ababa, sixtysomething Sami has spent nearly two decades translating Greek mythology into Amharic. Slight in frame, the reticent figure only lights up when he speaks of his colossal project, which has grown into an all-consuming obsession. The book has overwhelmed all other aspects of his life, leaving friends, relatives and Sami’s own wellbeing in the rearview mirror.
The film often observes him from a distance, as he moves across a fragmented, fluctuating urban landscape sprouting with towering new developments. Here is a man who, because of his ardent passion, is perpetually out of step with the times. In spite of his bashfulness,...
- 3/11/2024
- by Phuong Le
- The Guardian - Film News
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.