Nigerian cinema has reached a remarkable milestone with Akinola Davies Jr.’s inaugural full-length movie, "My Father's Shadow," which has been chosen for the Un Certain Regard category at the 78th Festival de Cannes.
This is the first instance of a Nigerian filmmaker having a fictional feature set in Nigeria selected for the official lineup at Cannes, underscoring an important achievement for the country’s movie sector.
The story unfolds during Nigeria’s chaotic 1993 presidential elections, following the emotional tale of two young siblings who spend a day in Lagos with their distant father amid growing political turmoil.
The movie explores issues related to family ties and social obstacles at a crucial juncture in Nigeria's past.
Cast and Production
The movie includes a performance by the British actor. Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù In the leading part, playing the father, Dírísu portrays a multifaceted character with great nuance. Recognized for his roles in "Gangs of London" and "His House," he infuses this intricate figure with significant depth.
The screenplay, co-written by Akinola Davies Jr . and Wale Davies was created with the backing of BBC Film, which had also supported their BAFTA-nominated short film called Lizard.
The production companies involved include Element Pictures and Fatherland Productions, with co-financing from an unnamed source. Filming took place on-location in Lagos, effectively encapsulating the city’s dynamic and bustling atmosphere.
Director's Vision
Akinola Davies Jr., Reflecting on this historic choice, highlighted the collaborative effort behind the movie:.
This serves as a tribute to every individual committed to sharing genuine Nigerian narratives, including the teams and numerous technicians driving our film sector. It acknowledges everyone—those from the past, currently involved, and yet to come—who have established the groundwork for Nigerian cinema. I am thrilled to represent arthouse filmmaking in Nigeria, but I'm particularly enthusiastic about celebrating our cast and crew, whose skills and dedication genuinely merit this recognition.
Industry Impact
Incorporating "My Father's Shadow" not only highlights the changing face of Nigerian cinema but also establishes a benchmark for upcoming regional creators to achieve acclaim on prestigious global stages.
This accomplishment highlights the increasing worldwide recognition of varied storytelling and the compelling tales originating from Africa.
Cannes Film Festival
The Un Certain Regard section at Cannes is known for showcasing groundbreaking and bold pieces that provide distinctive viewpoints. "My Father's Shadow" is part of a selective collection of movies hailing from various corners of the globe, underscoring an dedication to honoring a wide array of filmmaking talents.
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