Mehal Sefari
a Thriller Now Shooting in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Directed by Abraham Gezahagne
Produced by Tamara Mariam Dawit

“Those stuck in the middle will be shot by two bullets.”
– Ethiopian Proverb

“My main character, Tilahun, is a metaphorical embodiment of this proverb. He is not aligned with either the ruling junta or the opposition, yet he becomes a central victim in the conflict,” states Ethiopian Director Abraham Gezahagne. “Caught between two impossible choices – retrieving his son’s body or saving his daughter’s life. Tilahun is forced to grapple with the painful and ironic reality of being stuck in the middle, torn between life and death. This devastating choice serves as the heart of the story and reflects the reality of countless people who, like Tilahun, are caught in the middle, torn between life and death, survival and sacrifice.”

Production is underway in Addis Ababa on Mehal Sefari, a new feature film from Ethiopian-Canadian producer Tamara Mariam Dawit and directed by Ethiopian filmmaker Abraham Gezahagne. Shot entirely on location in Ethiopia’s capital, the film is scheduled to wrap principal photography on February 13, 2026.

Mehal Sefari is a thriller set against 1970’s Ethiopia, and follows a politically apathetic ambulance driver tasked with collecting bodies from the streets during a mass killing. The discovery of his son’s body shatters his detachment and compels him to take a side. What happens when survival collides with conscience.

The film stars Girum Zenebe, Abebe Balcha, Tsedey Fantahun from Ethiopia, alongside Ethiopian-Canadian actor Araya Mengesha.

“Mehal Sefari combines the gravity of historical reflection with the suspense of a psychological thriller to create a film that feels both urgent and timeless,” says director Abraham Gezahagne. “The historical setting serves as a mirror for contemporary issues in many parts of the world, while the thriller elements keep the audience engaged in the protagonist’s emotional journey. This blend of genre and tone ensures that the story is not only a reflection on the past but also a compelling cautionary tale that speaks to today’s audiences, underscoring the dangers of political apathy and the cyclical nature of violence.”

The producing team includes Tamara Mariam Dawit, Abraham Gezahagne, Harry Flöter, Sander Verdonk, and Ingrid Lill Høgtun. The film is edited by Mahi Rahgozar.

“Mehal Sefari is a story that refuses silence, it forces us to look directly at what it means to be asked to choose a side when everything feels uncertain,” adds Producer Tamara Mariam Dawit. “We are committed to supporting filmmakers who explore difficult truths and elevate voices that resonate on a global stage. Working with Abraham and this cast in Addis Ababa has been truly inspiring.”

Mehal Sefari is expected to be completed by Fall 2026, with plans for a festival launch in early 2027, followed by a targeted release strategy encompassing theatrical, educational, and broadcast platforms.

About Gobez Media
Gobez Media Inc is a Canadian production company run by EAVE graduate Tamara Mariam Dawit, focused on platforming African films and talent. The company produces bold, director-driven work with a global outlook. Gobez Media’s films include Forgotten Children (2007), Girls of Latitude (2008), Grandma Knows Best (2014), Finding Sally (2020), Made in Ethiopia (2024), Alazar (2024). The company is currently producing the dramatic features The Last Tears of the Deceased and Mehal Sefari, and the creative documentary The Plot.