The United Kingdom has chosen My Father’s Shadow as its official entry for the Best International Feature category at the 2025 Oscars. The film tells a Nigerian story and was filmed mostly in Nigeria. It features a Nigerian cast and crew, making this selection a historic one.
The story takes place in Nigeria during the political unrest of 1993. It follows two brothers, Remi and Akin, who travel to Lagos with their estranged father. He is trying to recover unpaid wages, and the journey exposes the children to the harsh realities of life. Sope Dirisu plays the father, while newcomers Godwin Chimerie Egbo and Chibuike Marvellous Egbo play the brothers. Their performances have been praised for their raw emotion and honesty.
My Father’s Shadow is directed by Akinola Davies Jr. and co-written with his brother, Wale Davies. The production combines Nigerian storytelling with international support. Earlier this year, it premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in the Un Certain Regard section. The film received warm reviews and a Caméra d’Or Special Mention, giving it global attention.
Nigeria’s National Official Selection Committee did not submit a film for the Oscars this year. Because of this, the UK’s choice of My Father’s Shadow stands out even more. It highlights how Nigerian stories can reach international platforms through different paths.
If the film earns a nomination or even wins, it could inspire more Nigerian filmmakers to bring their stories to a global stage. It also shows that stories rooted in African experiences are gaining more recognition worldwide. My Father’s Shadow has already made history, and all eyes are now on its Oscars journey.
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