The 20th Ethiopian International Film Festival (Earthopian): A Report: (From November 24 /2025 - December 1-2025)

Abstract

The present report reviews the 20th edition of the Ethiopian International Film Festival (EARTHOPIAN), which took place in Addis Ababa between November 24 and December 1, 2025, at the Addis Ababa City Administration Theatre Enterprise. In addition to film screenings, the festival provided space for the discussion of issues relating to the film industry in Ethiopia and its standing in the global film community. Using the information provided by the festival agenda, as well as some of its academic events, the paper placed EIFF in the broader context of the development of filmmaking in Ethiopia and the role of this event in shaping cultural policies. The festival became a space where filmmakers, scholars, and representatives of public institutions discussed pertinent issues, helped new talent to emerge, and built international relationships. This report can serve as a source of information about Ethiopian filmmaking for those researchers who are not working in Ethiopia, as well as contribute to the discourse around film festivals and global cinema.