Ethiopa film opens doors for maker

(March 02, 2011, Adel aide now )--RISING filmmaker Sieh Mchawala has earned masterclasses with the world's best documentary makers.

His documentary on two Adelaide siblings who help out each year in an Ethiopian village was one of four selected from a national showcase.

Oscar nominees Steve James (Hoop Dreams) and Bob Connolly (Rats in the Ranks) and Sundance Film Festival regular Pamela Yates (Granito) are teaching Mr Mchawala and three other hot young directors how to become the best in the business.

"He's a got a real eye and the subject matter is fascinating," Mr Connolly said of Mr Mchawala. Barefoot in Ethiopia was one of four documentaries picked from 80 submissions for the F4 New Talent Showcase.

Mr Mchawala spent four years following Kyra, 27, and Aidan Glasby, 29, working in a remote village in Ethiopia's Afar region. The film premieres at Palace Nova tonight, and screens later this year on ABC TV.
Source: Adel aide now

Home