My Father’s Shadow is making history. It is the first Nigerian film in almost 80 years to be picked for the Cannes Film Festival’s Official Selection. The movie was directed by Akinola Davies Jr. He wrote the story with his brother, Wale Davies. Many people are excited to see it at one of the biggest film events in the world.
Akinola Davies
The film takes place in Lagos, after the 1993 presidential election. This was a hard time in Nigeria. The story follows a father and his two sons, Remi and Akin, as they move through the city during the unrest. The movie is based on the real-life story of the Davies brothers. They lost their father when they were young.
The movie uses Yoruba and Pidgin languages. It also shows real places in Lagos and Ibadan. This helps bring true Nigerian culture to life.
Even before it was picked for Cannes, the movie had already made big news. MUBI, a global streaming platform, bought the rights to show the film in North America and other parts of the world.
My Father’s Shadow will be shown in the “Un Certain Regard” category at Cannes. This part of the festival focuses on new and rising filmmakers. This is the first time a Nigerian film will be part of that category.
Akinola Davies Jr. said he is proud of this moment. He said it is a way to honor people who tell Nigerian stories. Producer Funmbi Ogunbanwo said the film shows how strong Nigerian filmmakers are, even when things are hard.
This movie is more than just a story. It is a big moment for Nigerian film. It shows that Nigerian stories matter. And it proves that these stories can reach people all over the world.
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