
🎬 Title: Faya Dayi
Story: This film takes you on a spiritual exploration through the highlands of Harar, delving into the rituals surrounding khat, a leaf that Sufi Muslims have chewed for centuries as part of their meditative practices. Today, khat is also Ethiopia’s most profitable cash crop. The narrative weaves together personal stories that reveal the aspirations and challenges faced by youth living under a restrictive regime.
⭐ Rating: 7.6 (14 votes)
📅 Release date: September 3, 2021
⏱️ Runtime: 2 hours
🎭 Genres: Documentary
🎬 Director: Jessica Beshir
✍️ Writer: Jessica Beshir
🌍 Countries: Ethiopia, USA
🏢 Production Companies: XTR, Merkhana Films, Neon Heart Productions, Flies Collective

👥 Cast: Mohammed Arif (Self), Hashim Abdi (Self), Biniam Yonas (Self), Urji Abrahim Mumade (Self), Destu Ibrahim Mumade (Self)
Editor’s Note: Faya Dayi (2021) captures the essence of a documentary while avoiding clichés. Jessica Beshir skillfully tightens the storytelling, focusing on character development rather than superficial thrills. The performances, especially from Mohammed Arif, Hashim Abdi, and Biniam Yonas, ground the narrative in human emotion. At a runtime of 2 hours, it perfectly aligns with the subject matter, exhibiting a solid but slightly imperfect execution. If the theme resonates with you, be sure to add it to your watchlist.
More Info:
Discover Faya Dayi on TMDB |
IMDb















