Nigerian cinema makes history this May as “My Father’s Shadow” prepares for its debut at the 78th Cannes Film Festival in the Un Certain Regard section, marking a watershed moment for the country’s film industry and its storytellers.
The drama, co‑written and directed by Akinola Davies Jr., unfolds against the backdrop of Nigeria’s tumultuous 1993 presidential election, using the fractured bond between father and son to explore national trauma and personal loss. Filming took place in the bustling streets of Lagos and the historic locales of Ibadan, capturing both the frenetic energy of city life and the quiet, rural landscapes that shape the characters’ worldviews.
Producer Funmbi Ogunbanwo of Fatherland Productions teamed up with Rachel Dargavel of UK‑based Element Pictures to bring this story to life, blending local insight with international production expertise
British‑Nigerian actor Sope Dirisu headlines the cast, delivering a powerful lead performance alongside newcomers Godwin and Chibuike Egbo as the film’s central family unit.
Official confirmation of the Cannes selection appeared on Culture Custodian, which noted the film’s inclusion in Un Certain Regard—a sidebar dedicated to original and different works offering a “certain glance” at global cinema innovations. Weeks before its Cannes announcement, the film’s North American rights were snapped up by streaming platform Mubi, underscoring international confidence in its storytelling and market appeal.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo‑Olu praised the film’s selection on the state’s official website, hailing it as “a proud moment for Lagos and for Nigeria,” and affirmed his administration’s commitment to nurturing local talent and creative industries. He underscored the role of the Lagos State Film and Video Censors Board and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture in supporting projects that spotlight Nigerian narratives on the world stage.
Commissioner Toke Benson‑Awoyinka emphasized the cultural significance of the premiere, describing “My Father’s Shadow” as “a significant step in amplifying Nigerian voices globally.” As anticipation builds ahead of the festival’s May screening, industry watchers point to its selection as evidence of Nollywood’s maturation—from high‑volume local productions to festival‑worthy cinematic works with universal themes.
The Cannes debut not only cements Akinola Davies Jr.’s place among emerging auteurs but also signals a broader shift toward more nuanced, historically grounded storytelling in Nigerian film. With its rich visuals, compelling performances, and socio‑political resonance, “My Father’s Shadow” stands poised to challenge perceptions and open new doors for African cinema on the global circuit.