Documentary 'an open field' premieres on Netflix to explore collective grief

A new documentary short film titled 'an open field' is set to reach a worldwide audience when it debuts on Netflix on December 1. The 38-minute film focuses on the events surrounding the Boeing 737 MAX crash in Ethiopia in March 2019, which claimed the lives of 157 people shortly after takeoff from Addis Ababa. The project is a deeply personal endeavor for director Teboho Edkins, who lost his older brother, Max Thabiso Edkins, in the disaster.

Edkins created the film to capture the experience of mourning not only within his own family but also among the local community near the crash site. The production was led by Edkins and produced by his father, Don Edkins, along with Carine Chichkowsky. The film first received critical acclaim at the International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam in 2025, where it was awarded the best short documentary prize. Its arrival on streaming platforms marks a significant step in its journey from festival circuit to global distribution.

The title of the film refers to the specific location where the aircraft went down. According to the synopsis, dozens of nearby villagers rushed to the scene immediately after the crash to assist. For a month following the tragedy, some residents stood vigil in the area to protect and preserve the site. Even years later, these villagers continue to join family members, including the Edkins, in mourning at the location. This ongoing presence transforms the story from a singular family tragedy into a broader narrative of collective grief and compassion.

The film draws a sharp contrast between the emotional response of the local community and the widely criticized reaction of the aircraft manufacturer. While the community demonstrated enduring kindness and resolve, the corporate response is presented as less empathetic. The documentary serves as a quiet testament to humanity, highlighting moments of warmth, fear, patience, and simple acts of kindness that emerged in the aftermath of the accident.

Although the setting is in Ethiopia, the film aims to transcend geographical boundaries. The passengers on the ill-fated flight hailed from more than 30 different countries. This international mix of victims, combined with the universal experience of losing a loved one, allows the film to resonate with viewers who may not have a direct connection to the specific event. It functions as a cinematic attempt to connect with the spirit of the deceased brother and son, making it a profoundly family-centered project.

'an open field' is a co-production involving partners from South Africa, France, and Germany. The production companies include Day Zero Film and Video Productions in South Africa, Day Zero Films UG in Germany, and Survivance in France. The technical crew includes cinematographer Jide Akinleminu and editor Anne Fabini. The film utilizes both color and black-and-white imagery, and the dialogue is presented in both English and Amharic to reflect the local context.

Director Teboho Edkins described the project as a delicate and personal work that addresses fundamental aspects of being human. He expressed a hope that the film would reach a wide audience and find a point of resonance for viewers. Edkins noted that he is grateful for Netflix’s support in helping the film make its way out into the world, emphasizing the meaningfulness of bringing this personal story to global audiences.

The release of the film coincides with the exclusive premiere of its trailer by The Hollywood Reporter. This promotional material offers a first look at the visual style and narrative tone of the documentary. As streaming services continue to expand their documentary libraries, 'an open field' represents a significant addition, offering a nuanced perspective on grief that combines personal loss with communal healing.

The film’s approach to storytelling relies on observation and emotional depth rather than dramatic narration. It invites viewers to sit with the emotions of the survivors and the community members who remained connected to the site long after the immediate crisis had passed. This sustained focus on the aftermath provides a unique look at how communities process tragedy and support one another in the face of devastating loss.

With its release on December 1, 'an open field' joins a growing number of documentary shorts on major streaming platforms that explore specific historical or personal events. The film’s success at the IDFA festival suggests a strong reception from industry professionals, and its transition to Netflix signals a broader commercial interest in intimate, character-driven nonfiction. The project stands as a tribute to the victims of the 2019 crash and the people who cared for them.