My Father’s Shadow Returns to Nigeria After Making History at Cannes

History was made in Lagos on September 18, 2025, as My Father’s Shadow premiered at Filmhouse Cinemas IMAX, Lekki. The Nigerian-British film by Akinola Davies Jr. had already broken barriers at the Cannes Film Festival, where it became the first Nigerian movie selected for the official program and earned a Caméra d’Or Special Mention.

The Nigerian premiere drew a full house of filmmakers, actors, cultural leaders, industry executives, and media. It was the homecoming of a story rooted in Nigeria’s past but resonating with the world. Seeing Nigerian storytelling recognised on one of the world’s biggest stages was a proud moment for many in attendance.

Set during Nigeria’s turbulent 1993 presidential election, the drama follows two brothers who spend a day with their estranged father in Lagos. What began as a short film by producer Wale Davies grew into a feature co-written with his brother, Akinola Davies Jr., blending politics, spirituality, and the intimacy of family life. Starring Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù, the production was a collaboration between Element Pictures, Fatherland Productions, BBC Film, and the BFI.

Speaking at the premiere, Akinola Davies Jr. said the story reflects universal struggles.

I hope that audiences will relate to the same things I love in the film – the family, politics, spirituality, and psychology: trying to navigate all of these aspects in a mid-nineties Nigerian period drama is what helps make this film unique. We’ve tried to make something accessible, so that when people watch it, they see a reflection of themselves and their familiar experiences.

Producer Funmbi Ogunbanwo added that the film captures Lagos in all its complexity.

I am excited for audiences to see Lagos portrayed in this way. Audiences will enjoy the rich tapestry of Nigeria, our people, and our language. They will feel the rhythm and sound of Lagos, the size of Lagos. The journey of these boys with their father through this city ultimately culminates in this rich family experience.

The film officially opens in cinemas across Nigeria, Ghana, and Liberia on September 19 through FilmOne Distributions. Its Lagos premiere reminded us that Nigerian stories, grounded in local history, family ties, and cultural identity, continue to resonate far beyond their borders.

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