The World of Movies: Hairat
Written by Rachael Crawley
The World of Movies is a series that explores global cinema, drawing on films from many countries, industries and eras. This week, we look at people and hyenas in Ethiopia.
Hairat.
May contain spoilers.
Every day, Yussuf Mume Saleh leaves the city of Harar to spend time with a group of hyenas. This routine continues for thirty-five years. In only six minutes, Hairat (Jessica Beshir, 2017) gives us a moment of insight into this unique relationship. What could easily be a short, factual video instead encourages us to pause, reflect, and really consider all that has gone into these moments.
There isn’t exactly a plot – it is more of a vignette, as we accompany Saleh on one of his evening journeys. That said, it is clear how deep a relationship Saleh has built with the hyenas, who are comfortable eating with him (and even seem to follow his directions). Considering that hyenas can be very fierce and dangerous to humans, this level of familiarity is remarkable. It is clear, too, how much affection he has for these animals, as he casually nudges them or feeds them a bit of meat.
Still, Hairat aims for more complex ways of understanding this relationship, more than simply viewing the hyenas as pets or as novelties. In the background, a poem is read about love and healing. The use of the poem was a strong choice. It is a story of adoration, but focuses on the mutuality of the partnership – the two parties build each other up and forge something that will make them both stronger. Even with wild animals, the connection can be deep.
Hairat.
Combined with the film’s aesthetic strengths, it makes for a haunting experience. There is little speech or ambient noise. The score is light and unobtrusive. The image is quite dark, owing partially to its black-and-white cinematography, and as a result only small portions of the content appear clearly within the frame. This gives the movie a fragmented feeling. We only see quick moments of Saleh and the hyenas, and yet they add up to a larger whole. At the same time, it permits important figures to stand out within the image – our focus is directed quite effortlessly to what matters.
Hairat is a peaceful, poetic look at a simple exchange between humans and animals. Despite its short runtime, it conveys great nuance about its subjects. For anyone who loves animals, or simply wants a few thoughtful moments, this film would be a lovely choice.
Rachael Crawley holds a Master's Degree in Film and Photography Preservation and Collections Management from Ryerson University, and has worked with film in Canada and in Europe. She adores language and cinema, and how these subjects interact with each other.